Shloka 1.20.26

राज्ञः शङ्का–प्रत्याख्यानम् (Daśaratha’s Objections to Sending Rāma) — Bala Kanda, Sarga 20

Devanagari script

मारीचश्च सुबाहुश्च वीर्यवन्तौ सुशिक्षितौ।तयोरन्यतरेणाहं योध्दा स्यां ससुहृद्गण:।।।।

Transliteration

mārīcaś ca subāhuś ca vīryavantau suśikṣitau | tayor anyatareṇāhaṁ yoddhā syāṁ sasuhṛdgaṇaḥ ||

Translation

Marīca and Subāhu are mighty and well-trained; with my trusted allies at my side, I could fight at least one of the two.

Context

Maricha and Subahu not only possess prowess but also are experienced in warfare. Together with my group of friends I can combat with one of the two".

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Viśvāmitra
• Marīca
• Subāhu

FAQs

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

A ruler’s dharma includes offering personal service and protection to uphold sacred rites and public order. Daśaratha proposes fulfilling that duty himself rather than risking Rāma.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha identifies the chief disruptors (Marīca and Subāhu) and argues he can confront one of them with his own supporters, implying Rāma need not go.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Royal resolve and accountability: Daśaratha presents himself as willing to take the burden of combat, reflecting kingly responsibility.