Shloka 1.28.18

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

darśanīyaṁ mṛgākīrṇaṁ manoramam atīva ca |

nānā-prakāraiḥ śakunair valgu-nādair alaṅkṛtam || 1.28.18 ||

Translation

It is lovely to behold, filled with animals, exceedingly charming, and adorned by birds of many kinds with their sweet calls.

Context

"From this side of the mountain, not faroff from here stand shining and goodlooking 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
• Mṛga (animals/deer etc.)
• Śakuni (birds)

FAQs

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

Dharma is harmony with living beings: the verse foregrounds a peaceful ecology (animals, birds, sweetness), implying that righteous spaces foster non-violence and balance.

What is the narrative situation?

Continuing his question, Rāma describes the grove’s beauty and life-filled atmosphere to Viśvāmitra, prompting identification of the place.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sattvic sensitivity: Rāma’s mind responds to gentleness and beauty, showing refinement and receptivity rather than mere martial focus.