Shloka 2.78.1

अष्टसप्ततितमः सर्गः — Śatrughna’s Fury and Bharata’s Restraint (Mantharā Episode)

Devanagari script

अथ यात्रां समीहन्तं शत्रुघ्नो लक्ष्मणानुजः।भरतं शोकसन्तप्तमिदं वचनमब्रवीत्।।।।

Transliteration

atha yātrāṃ samīhantaṃ śatrughno lakṣmaṇānujaḥ | bharataṃ śokasantaptam idaṃ vacanam abravīt ||

Translation

Then, as grief-tormented Bharata sought to set out on the journey, Śatrughna—Lakṣmaṇa’s younger brother—spoke these words to him.

Context

As the griefstricken Bharata was intending to proceed to Rama, Lakshmana's younger brother Satrughna said to him:

Characters & Entities

• Bharata
• Śatrughna
• Lakṣmaṇa
• Rāma (implied destination)

FAQs

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

Dharma as wise counsel and solidarity: in crisis, righteous action is supported by brothers and advisers who help convert grief into purposeful duty.

What is the narrative situation?

A transition into Sarga 78: Bharata plans to go to Rāma, and Śatrughna begins to address him.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Fraternal support—Śatrughna’s readiness to advise and stand with Bharata in a moment of upheaval.