Shloka 1.28.17

अस्त्रग्रहणं संहारोपदेशश्च — Receiving the Astras and Instruction on Withdrawal

Devanagari script

किन्न्वेतन्मेघसङ्काशं पर्वतस्याविदूरत:। वृक्षषण्डमितो भाति परं कौतूहलं हि मे।।1.28.17।।दर्शनीयं मृगाकीर्णं मनोरममतीव च।नानाप्रकारैश्शकुनैर्वल्गुनादैरलङ्कृतम्।।1.28.18।।

Transliteration

kinnv etan megha-saṅkāśaṁ parvatasya ’vidūrataḥ |

vṛkṣa-ṣaṇḍam ito bhāti paraṁ kautūhalaṁ hi me || 1.28.17 ||

Translation

What is this cluster of trees, cloud-like in appearance, shining from here not far from the mountain? My curiosity is greatly aroused.

Context

"From this side of the mountain, not far-off from here stand shining and good-looking trees resembling clouds. It is replete scattered with animals, pleasing to the mind and extremely beautiful. It is adorned with various kinds of birds singing sweetly. What could be this? I am very curious to know.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Viśvāmitra
• Parvata (mountain)
• Vṛkṣa-ṣaṇḍa (grove/thicket)

FAQs

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

Dharma includes a disciplined desire to understand one’s surroundings, especially while accompanying a sage; curiosity becomes a tool for learning rather than distraction.

What is the narrative situation?

While traveling with Viśvāmitra, Rāma notices a striking grove near a mountain and asks what it is, setting up the explanation of the place’s significance.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Attentiveness and inquisitiveness guided by respect: Rāma asks his teacher rather than acting impulsively, showing measured conduct.