Shloka 1.42.22

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

Devanagari script

मनोरथो महानेष भगीरथ महारथ।एवं भवतु भद्रं ते इक्ष्वाकुकुलवर्धन।।1.42.22।।

Transliteration

uktavākyaṁ tu rājānaṁ sarvalokapitāmahaḥ | pratyuvāca śubhāṁ vāṇīṁ madhurāṁ madhurākṣarām ||1.42.21||

Translation

Then the Grandsire of all worlds, addressing the king who had spoken thus, replied in auspicious words—sweet in tone and gentle in syllables.

Context

'O Great charioteer! Bhagiratha, your desire is great. O Perpetuator of dynasty of theIkshvakus, let your wish be fulfilled. Prosperity to you'.

Characters & Entities

• Brahmā (Sarvalokapitāmaha)
• Bhagīratha (king)

FAQs

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

Dharma in speech: authority should respond with auspicious, measured, and non-harsh words—power guided by benevolence.

What is the narrative situation?

The narration transitions from Bhagīratha’s requests to Brahmā’s formal, gracious reply.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Compassionate communication—divine authority is portrayed as gentle, encouraging, and orderly.