Shloka 1.42.24

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

Devanagari script

गङ्गाया: पतनं राजन् पृथिवी न सहिष्यति।तां वै धारयितुं वीर नान्यं पश्यामि शूलिन:।।1.42.24।।

Transliteration

iyaṁ haimavatī gaṅgā jyeṣṭhā himavataḥ sutā | tāṁ vai dhārayituṁ śakto haras tatra niyujyatām ||1.42.23||

Translation

This Gaṅgā is Haimavatī, the eldest daughter of Himavat; only Hara (Śiva) is able to bear her—therefore let him be appointed to that task.

Context

'O King! Ganga's descent cannot be sustained by earth. O Hero! I do not see any other person to hold her than the wielder of the trident (Siva)'.

Characters & Entities

• Gaṅgā
• Himavat
• Śiva (Hara)

FAQs

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

Dharma as right means: even a righteous goal must be achieved through proper, lawful capability—power must be mediated to prevent harm.

What is the narrative situation?

Brahmā explains that Gaṅgā’s descent requires Śiva to bear her force, directing Bhagīratha to seek Śiva’s support.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Practical wisdom—recognizing limits and seeking the correct support rather than forcing outcomes.