Shloka 2.82.13

भरतस्य धर्मप्रतिज्ञा तथा रामनिवर्तनयात्रा (Bharata’s Vow of Dharma and the Expedition to Recall Rama)

Devanagari script

ज्येष्ठ श्श्रेष्ठश्च धर्मात्मा दिलीपनहुषोपमः।लब्धुमर्हति काकुत्स्थो राज्यं दशरथो यथा।।।।

Transliteration

jyeṣṭhaḥ śreṣṭhaś ca dharmātmā dilīpa-nahuṣopamaḥ |

labdhum arhati kākutstho rājyaṃ daśaratho yathā ||

Translation

Rāma of the Kakutstha line—eldest, best, and righteous, comparable to Dilīpa and Nahuṣa—deserves to obtain this kingdom, just as Daśaratha did.

Context

The eldest, eminent and righteous Rama, the scion of the Kakutstha dynasty, who is comparable to Dilipa and Nahusha deserves to inherit this kingdom just as Dasaratha did.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Daśaratha
• Dilīpa
• Nahuṣa
• Kakutstha dynasty

FAQs

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

Rightful succession is tied to both birth-order and merit: Bharata frames kingship as a dhārmic trust earned by righteousness and continuity with exemplary ancestors.

What is the narrative situation?

Bharata argues before the court that Rāma alone is fit to inherit, supporting his claim through lineage ideals and moral excellence.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Justice and reverence for tradition: Bharata upholds the standards set by ancestral exemplars rather than personal advantage.