Shloka 1.4.28

कुशिलवगानप्रशंसा — The Commissioning and Public Performance of the Rāmāyaṇa

Devanagari script

तौ चापि मधुरं रक्तं स्वञ्चितायतनिस्वनम् ।तन्त्रीलयवदत्यर्थं विश्रुतार्थमगायताम् ।।1.4.28।।

Transliteration

dṛṣṭvā tu rūpasampannau tāv ubhau niyatas tathā | uvāca lakṣmaṇaṃ rāmaḥ śatrughnaṃ bharataṃ tadā || 1.4.26 ||

Translation

Seeing those two youths, handsome and well-formed, Rama—steady and self-controlled—then addressed Lakshmana, Shatrughna, and Bharata.

Context

Both of them, with good and ample voice, chanted the kavya in a distinctly meaningful way. Tuning their stringed instruments, they sang melodiously and engagingly.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Lakshmana
• Shatrughna
• Bharata
• Kusha
• Lava

FAQs

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

Dharma is expressed as restraint and measured speech: even in surprise or curiosity, Rama remains niyata (self-governed) before speaking and acting.

What is the narrative situation?

Rama notices the two impressive young reciters (Kuśa and Lava) and turns to speak to his brothers present in the assembly.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rama’s आत्मसंयम (self-control) and leadership—he engages others through orderly address rather than impulsive reaction.