Shloka 2.83.24

अयोध्याकाण्डे त्र्यशीति तमः सर्गः — Bharata’s Departure and Encampment on the Gaṅgā (Śṛṅgīberapura)

Devanagari script

दातुं च तावदिच्छामि स्वर्गतस्य महीपतेः।और्ध्वदेहनिमित्तार्थमवतीर्योदकं नदीम्।।2.83.24।।

Transliteration

dātuṃ ca tāvad icchāmi svargatasya mahīpateḥ |

aurdhvadehanimittārtham avatīrya udakaṃ nadīm || 2.83.24 ||

Translation

For the moment, I wish to descend into the river and offer water-libations (tarpana) for the departed king, so that his onward journey in the next world may be blessed.

Context

Meanwhile, I shall get into this river and offer libations with water to the departed king for the good of his life in the other world.

Characters & Entities

• Bharata
• Daśaratha (departed king)
• river (Gaṅgā implied by immediate context)

FAQs

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

Pitṛdharma: the duty of a son/relative to honor the deceased through water-libations and rites, ensuring respect, gratitude, and continuity of sacred obligations even amid political crisis.

What is the narrative situation?

While halted near the great river on the journey to meet Rāma, Bharata resolves to perform libations for the departed king Daśaratha before proceeding.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Bharata’s reverence and conscientiousness—he prioritizes rightful ritual duty and remembrance of his father alongside his urgent mission to bring Rāma back.