Shloka 2.82.20

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

Devanagari script

विष्टिकर्मान्तिका स्सर्वे मार्गशोधकरक्षकाः।प्रस्थापिता मया पूर्वं यत्रापि मम रोचते।।।।

Transliteration

viṣṭi-karmāntikāḥ sarve mārga-śodhaka-rakṣakāḥ |

prasthāpitā mayā pūrvaṁ yatrāpi mama rocate ||

Translation

I have already sent ahead all the scouts and road-guards—those pressed into service as well as those hired—so that the route may be searched and protected, wherever this journey of mine is to proceed.

Context

I have already despatched the explorers and protectors of roads who work for wages and without wages as well. It also pleases me to undertake this journey.

Characters & Entities

• Bharata
• mārga-śodhaka-rakṣakāḥ (scouts and road-guards)

FAQs

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

Dharma as responsible governance: ensuring safety and order through prior planning—securing roads and arranging logistics before undertaking a public mission.

What is the narrative situation?

Bharata explains that advance personnel have been dispatched to scout and secure the route for the expedition connected with his intended journey.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Bharata’s foresight and administrative competence—careful preparation rather than impulsive action.