Shloka 1.3.11

तृतीयः सर्गः (Bālakāṇḍa 3): Vālmīki’s Yogic Verification and the Epic Synopsis

Devanagari script

नानाचित्रकथाश्चान्या विश्वामित्रसमागमे ।जानक्याश्च विवाहं च धनुषश्च विभेदनम् ।।।।

Transliteration

nānācitrakathāś cānyā viśvāmitrasamāgame |

jānakyāś ca vivāhaṃ ca dhanuṣaś ca vibhedanam ||

Translation

He recounted Rāma’s association with Viśvāmitra, many other wondrous and varied episodes, the breaking of the great bow, and Rāma’s marriage with Jānakī.

Context

(He described) Rama's association with Viswamitra, a variety of wonderful stories, the breaking of the great bow and his (Rama's) marriage with Janaki.

Characters & Entities

• Viśvāmitra
• Jānakī (Sītā)
• Rāma
• the great bow (Śiva’s bow/Pināka, implied)

FAQs

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

Dharma is shown as disciplined training under a sage (learning and restraint under Viśvāmitra) and righteous action that culminates in a lawful, sacred marriage.

What is the narrative situation?

Nārada summarizes key milestones in Rāma’s early story for Vālmīki: the Viśvāmitra episode, the bow-breaking contest, and the wedding with Sītā.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s steadiness and worthiness—proved through guided conduct and heroic capability—leading to a dharmic union with Sītā.