Shloka 1.31.17

सिद्धाश्रमात् शोणातटं प्रस्थानम् — Departure from Siddhāśrama and the Invitation to Janaka’s Yajña (Bow of Mithilā)

Devanagari script

तं प्रयान्तं मुनिवरमन्वयादनुसारिणम्।शकटीशतमात्रं तु प्रायेण ब्रह्मवादिनाम्।।1.31.17।।

Transliteration

taṃ prayāntaṃ munivaram anvayād anusāriṇam | śakaṭīśatamātraṃ tu prāyeṇa brahmavādinām || 1.31.17 ||

Translation

As the foremost sage set out onward, the expounders of the Veda followed after him—nearly a hundred carts’ worth of attendants accompanying the procession.

Context

As Viswamitra, the best of ascetics set out on his journey, expounders of the Vedas followed him, nearly in one hundred carriages.

Characters & Entities

• Viśvāmitra
• brahmavādins (Vedic expounders)
• śakaṭī (carts)

FAQs

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

Dharma here is expressed as reverent following of a realized guide: the Vedic expounders accompany the sage, showing disciplined respect for spiritual leadership and shared sacred purpose.

What is the narrative situation?

Viśvāmitra departs from Siddhāśrama, and a large retinue of Veda-chanters/ascetics follows him as the group continues its journey.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Communal discipline and devotion to sacred learning—those devoted to the Veda willingly support and accompany the sage, reflecting steadiness and respect.