Shloka 1.42.13

गङ्गावतरण-प्रार्थना (Bhagīratha’s Petition for the Descent of Gaṅgā)

Devanagari script

तस्य वर्षसहस्राणि घोरे तपसि तिष्ठत:।।1.42.13।।अतीतानि महाबाहो तस्य राज्ञो महात्मन:। सुप्रीतो भगवान् ब्रह्मा प्रजानां पतिरीश्वर:।।1.42.14।।

Transliteration

tasya varṣasahasrāṇi ghore tapasi tiṣṭhataḥ |

atītāni mahābāho tasya rājño mahātmanaḥ |

suprīto bhagavān brahmā prajānāṃ patir īśvaraḥ ||

Translation

O mighty-armed one, as that great-souled king stood firm in fierce austerity, thousands of years passed; then the Blessed Brahmā—Lord and protector of creatures—was exceedingly pleased with him.

Context

O mighty-armed, (Rama)! Bhagiratha continued in that state for a thousand years amidst rigid austerities. Lord of all creatures, Brahma was highly pleased with that illustrious king.

Characters & Entities

• Bhagiratha
• Brahmā
• Rāma (Mahābāhu)

FAQs

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

Dharma is validated through sustained tapas aligned with a righteous purpose; divine approval comes when effort is truthful, disciplined, and directed toward a just end.

What is the narrative situation?

After long austerities by Bhagiratha, Brahmā becomes pleased—signaling that a boon or divine intervention is imminent.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Endurance and unwavering commitment over time—Bhagiratha’s steadfast tapas that does not waver even across vast spans.