Shloka 2.80.22

मर्गनिर्माणम् (Roadworks and the Royal Route Prepared for Bharata)

Devanagari script

सचन्द्रतारागणमण्डितं यथा नभः क्षपायाममलं विराजते।नरेन्द्रमार्गस्स तथा व्यराजत क्रमेण रम्यः शुभशिल्पिनिर्मितः।।।।

Transliteration

bahupāṃsucayāś cāpi parikhāparivāritāḥ | tatrendrakīlapratimāḥ pratolīvaraśobhitāḥ ||

Translation

There, heaps of sand had been raised and the ground was encircled by moats; splendid gateways adorned it, and the ramparts rose like Mount Indrakīla.

Context

The lovely royal road constructed in an orderly fashion by eminent craftsmen looked splendid like the clear sky decorated with by the Moon and clusters of stars.ityārṣē śrīmadrāmāyaṇē vālmīkīya ādikāvyē ayōdhyākāṇḍē aśītitamassargaḥ৷৷Thus ends the eightieth sarga in Ayodhyakanda of the holy Ramayana, the first epic composed by sage Valmiki.

Characters & Entities

• Indrakīla

FAQs

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

Protective governance as dharma: building secure, orderly spaces for a public event reflects the ruler’s obligation to safety and stability.

What is the narrative situation?

The designated resting-place/encampment is being prepared with defensive and ceremonial features—moats, embankments, and grand gateways.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Prudence and responsibility—planning that balances grandeur with protection.