Shloka 1.42.17

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

Devanagari script

तमुवाच महातेजा: सर्वलोकपितामहम्।भगीरथो महाभाग: कृताञ्जलिरुपस्थित:।।1.42.17।।

Transliteration

tam uvāca mahātejāḥ sarvalokapitāmaham |

bhagīratho mahābhāgaḥ kṛtāñjalir upasthitaḥ || 1.42.17 ||

Translation

Then the glorious, greatly blessed Bhagīratha, standing with folded hands, addressed the Grandsire of all worlds—Brahmā.

Context

Brilliant, glorious Bhagiratha, stood before the Grandsire of all the worlds with folded palms and spoke":

Characters & Entities

• Bhagīratha
• Brahmā (Sarvalokapitāmaha)

FAQs

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

Dharma is reverent petition: rightful aims are pursued through humility, discipline, and respectful address to higher authority.

What is the narrative situation?

Bhagīratha, after austerities, approaches Brahmā and begins his request for Gaṅgā’s descent.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Bhagīratha’s devotion and humility (kṛtāñjali), indicating fitness to seek a boon for ancestral and public good.