Shloka 1.18.43

पुत्रजन्मोत्सवः — Birth of the Princes and Viśvāmitra’s Arrival (Bālakāṇḍa 18)

Devanagari script

स राज्ञ: प्रतिगृह्यार्घ्यं शास्त्रदृष्टेन कर्मणा।।।।कुशलं चाव्ययं चैव पर्यपृच्छन्नराधिपम्।2

Transliteration

sa rājñaḥ pratigṛhyārghyaṃ śāstradṛṣṭena karmaṇā | kuśalaṃ cāvyayaṃ caiva paryapṛcchan narādhipam ||

Translation

Viśvāmitra, receiving the king’s arghya according to the rites prescribed in the śāstras, then asked the ruler about the realm’s welfare and its stable prosperity.

Context

Viswamitra received the offerings as ordained in the scriptures and enquired from the king about the welfare and prosperity of his kingdom.

Characters & Entities

• Viśvāmitra
• Daśaratha
• śāstra
• arghya

FAQs

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

Dharma is twofold: ritual correctness (śāstra-guided conduct) and concern for the people’s welfare as the true measure of kingship.

What is the narrative situation?

After accepting the formal offering, Viśvāmitra begins courteous inquiry into the state of the kingdom.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Respectful civility and governance-mindedness—Viśvāmitra models disciplined etiquette and concern for public well-being.