Shloka 1.35.13

गङ्गाजन्मवर्णनम् / The Origin of the Ganga (Tripathagā Narrative)

Devanagari script

चोदितो रामवाक्येन विश्वामित्रो महामुनि:।वृद्धिं जन्म च गङ्गाया वक्तुमेवोपचक्रमे।।1.35.13।।

Transliteration

śailendro himavān nāma dhātūnām ākaro mahān | tasya kanyādvayaṃ rāma rūpeṇāpratimaṃ bhuvi ||

Translation

“O Rāma, the lord of mountains named Himavān is a vast treasure-house, a mighty mine of metals and minerals. He had two daughters, unmatched in beauty upon the earth.”

Context

Prompted by Rama's words, maharshi Viswamitra started narrating the account of the birth and progress of river Ganga.

Characters & Entities

• Viśvāmitra
• Rāma
• Himavān
• Two daughters (Gaṅgā and Umā—introduced subsequently)

FAQs

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

The verse reflects dharma as recognition of rightful status and lineage: cosmic and social order is narrated through genealogies that situate sacred forces (like rivers) within a meaningful moral universe.

What is the narrative situation?

Viśvāmitra introduces Himavān and sets up the lineage background needed to explain Gaṅgā’s origin.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Viśvāmitra’s clarity and authority as a narrator of ancient sacred history (itihāsa) are emphasized.