Shloka 1.25.17

ताटकावृत्तान्तः — The Account of Tāṭakā and the Royal Duty to Protect

Devanagari script

नृशंसमनृशंसं वा प्रजारक्षणकारणात्।पातकं वा सदोषं वा कर्तव्यं रक्षता सता।।।।

Transliteration

nṛśaṃsam anṛśaṃsaṃ vā prajā-rakṣaṇa-kāraṇāt | pātakaṃ vā sa-doṣaṃ vā kartavyaṃ rakṣatā satā ||

Translation

For the sake of protecting the people, a virtuous protector must do what is necessary—whether it appears harsh or gentle, even if it seems sinful or liable to fault.

Context

Whether cruel or kind, sinful or wrong whatever contributes to the protection of the subjects, should be done by the righteous (king).

Characters & Entities

• Viśvāmitra
• Rāma
• prajā (subjects/people)

FAQs

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

The duty to protect the innocent can obligate difficult actions; dharma is judged by the aim of safeguarding society, not merely by outward softness or harshness.

What is the narrative situation?

Viśvāmitra frames the killing of Tātakā as an act of public protection, instructing Rāma on the burdens of righteous governance.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Responsible discernment (viveka) in applying force for protection, guided by the welfare of the people.