Shloka 2.74.25

भरतस्य कैकेयी-गर्हा तथा सुरभि-दृष्टान्तः (Bharata’s Reproach of Kaikeyi and the Surabhi Exemplum)

Devanagari script

ममकायात्प्रसूतौ हि दुःखितौ भारपीडितौ।यौ दृष्ट्वा परितप्येऽहं नास्ति पुत्रसमः प्रियः।।।।

Transliteration

mama kāyāt prasūtau hi duḥkhitau bhārapīḍitau | yau dṛṣṭvā paritapye ’haṁ nāsti putrasamaḥ priyaḥ ||

Translation

Born from my own body, they are anguished and crushed beneath the burden. Seeing them, I burn with grief—there is none dear like a son.

Context

'These bulls were born from my body and they are oppressed by the burden. Having seen their anguish, I am extremely grieved. There is none so dear as a son'.

Characters & Entities

• Surabhi
• Kāmadhenu
• Indra
• sons (as bulls)

FAQs

What is the core ethical principle (Dharma) in this verse?

Dharma recognizes the sanctity of familial bonds and the duty of care; the suffering of one’s dependents becomes a moral claim upon the conscience.

What is the narrative situation?

Surabhi intensifies her explanation: the bulls are her own offspring, and their forced labor causes her acute grief.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Vātsalya (parental affection) as a virtue that motivates protection and compassion.