Shloka 1.14.53

अश्वमेधप्रवृत्तिः — Commencement and Performance of Daśaratha’s Aśvamedha

Devanagari script

तत: प्रीतेषु नृपतिर्द्विजेषु द्विजवत्सल:।प्रणाममकरोत्तेषां हर्षपर्याकुलेक्षण:।।।।

Transliteration

tataḥ prīteṣu nṛpatir dvijeṣu dvijavatsalaḥ | praṇāmam akarot teṣāṃ harṣaparyākulekṣaṇaḥ ||

Translation

Then, when the brāhmaṇas were pleased, the king—ever devoted to the twice-born—bowed before them in reverence, his eyes trembling with joy.

Context

When the brahmins were pleased, king Dasaratha who was fond of brahmins bowed to them with his eyes filled with delight.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Brāhmaṇas

FAQs

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

Humility and reverence: rightful power is tempered by respect for dharma’s custodians (the learned), shown through sincere praṇāma.

What is the narrative situation?

After the brāhmaṇas are satisfied with the gifts and proceedings, Daśaratha respectfully salutes them.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Vinaya (humble conduct) joined with gratitude—Daśaratha honors those who uphold the rite and bless his house.