Shloka 1.3.17

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

Devanagari script

पादुकाग्र्याभिषेकं च नन्दिग्रामनिवासनम् ।दण्डकारण्यगमनं विराधस्य वधं तथा ।।।।

Transliteration

pādukāgryābhiṣekaṃ ca nandigrāma-nivāsanam |

daṇḍakāraṇya-gamanaṃ virādhasya vadhaṃ tathā ||

Translation

He described the sacred consecration of Rāma’s sandals, Bharata’s dwelling at Nandigrāma, Rāma’s journey to Daṇḍakāraṇya, and the slaying of Virādha.

Context

(He described) the installation of sandals (of Rama as the symbol of authority), Bharata is residing at Nandigrama (and his ruling the kingdom from there), Rama's departure for Dandakaranya, and the killing of Viradha.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Bharata
• Rāma’s sandals (pādukā)
• Nandigrāma
• Daṇḍakāraṇya
• Virādha

FAQs

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

Dharma is upheld through rightful authority and protection: Bharata rules without usurping, and Rāma removes threats in the forest.

What is the narrative situation?

Bharata installs Rāma’s sandals as the emblem of kingship and stays at Nandigrāma; Rāma advances into Daṇḍakāraṇya and kills Virādha.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Bharata’s integrity (refusal to seize the throne) and Rāma’s courage in defending dharma in dangerous wilderness.