Shloka 2.85.1

भरत-गुहसंवादः (Bharata and Guha: Trust, Hospitality, and the Burden of Grief)

Devanagari script

एवमुक्तस्तु भरतो निषादाधिपतिं गुहम्।प्रत्युवाच महाप्राज्ञो वाक्यं हेत्वर्थसंहितम्।।2.85.1।।

Transliteration

evam uktas tu bharato niṣādādhipatiṃ guham |

pratyuvāca mahāprājño vākyaṃ hetv-artha-saṃhitam ||

Translation

Thus addressed, Bharata—the greatly wise—replied to Guha, lord of the Niṣādas, with words filled with reason and meaning.

Context

When thus spoken to, Bharata, a great intellectual, replied to Guha with these well thought out and meaningful words.

Characters & Entities

• Bharata
• Guha
• Niṣāda

FAQs

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

Dharma is upheld through reasoned, meaningful speech: conflict is best resolved by truthful explanation rather than force.

What is the narrative situation?

After Guha’s suspicion and defensive measures, Bharata begins to answer, preparing to clarify his intentions.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Wisdom expressed as measured speech—Bharata is portrayed as thoughtful and principled in communication.