Shloka 1.23.19

कामाश्रम-प्रवेशः / Entry into Kāma’s Hermitage at the Sarayū–Gaṅgā Confluence

Devanagari script

अर्घ्यं पाद्यं तथाऽतिथ्यं निवेद्य कुशिकात्मजे।रामलक्ष्मणयो: पश्चादकुर्वन्नतिथिक्रियाम्।।।।

Transliteration

arghyaṃ pādyaṃ tathātithyaṃ nivedya kuśikātmaje |

rāmalakṣmaṇayoḥ paścād akurvan atithikriyām ||

Translation

After offering arghya, pādya, and due hospitality to Viśvāmitra, the son of Kuśika, they then performed the rites of welcome for Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa.

Context

After extending hospitality to the son of Kusika (Viswamitra) with respectful offerings, and water for washing feet they played the host to Rama and Lakshmana.

Characters & Entities

• Viśvāmitra (Kuśikātmaja)
• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa
• Arghya
• Pādya
• Atithikriyā

FAQs

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

Atithi-dharma: honoring guests with proper reception rites is a concrete practice of righteousness and truthfulness in social life.

What is the narrative situation?

The sages welcome Viśvāmitra first with formal offerings, and then extend the same guest-honors to Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Respect and humility—recognizing spiritual stature and fulfilling duties of hospitality without neglect.