Shloka 2.76.4

दशरथस्य अन्त्येष्टि-विधानम् — Dasaratha’s Funeral Rites and Ayodhya’s Mourning

Devanagari script

उद्धृतं तैलसंरोधात्सतु भूमौ निवेशितम्।आपीतवर्णवदनं प्रसुप्तमिव भूमिपम्।।2.76.4।।संवेश्य शयने चाग्य्रे नानारत्नपरिष्कृते।ततो दशरथं पुत्रो विललाप सुदुःखितः।।2.76.5।।

Transliteration

tato rudantyo vivaśā vilapya ca punaḥ punaḥ |

yānebhyaḥ sarayūtīram avaterur varāṅganāḥ || 2.76.22 ||

Translation

Then the courtesans, weeping and helpless, lamenting again and again, alighted from their vehicles onto the bank of the Sarayū.

Context

The mortal remains of king Dasaratha, protector of the earth, was taken out of the oil container and placed on the floor. His pale, yellow face appeared as if he was asleep. Thereafter it was laid upon a magnificent couch adorned with every kind of gem. On seeing Dasaratha in that state Bharata lamented in extreme distress.

Characters & Entities

• Sarayū
• varāṅganāḥ (courtesans)

FAQs

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

Dharma here appears as inclusive public participation in mourning rites—people connected to the royal household, even courtesans, share in honoring the departed.

What is the narrative situation?

Various groups reach the Sarayū bank as part of the funeral events, dismounting from their vehicles while grieving.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Shared humanity—grief is not limited by status; the verse underscores collective sorrow and respect.