Shloka 1.43.16

गङ्गावतरणम् (The Descent of the Gaṅgā and Bhagiratha’s Fulfilment)

Devanagari script

मत्स्यकच्छपसङ्घैश्च शिंशुमारगणैस्तदा।।।।पतद्भि: पतितैश्चान्यैर्व्यरोचत वसुन्धरा।

Transliteration

gaganāc chaṅkara-śiras tato dharaṇim āśritā | vyasarpata jalaṃ tatra tīvra-śabda-puraskṛtam ||

Translation

From the sky it fell upon Śaṅkara’s head, and from there it came to rest upon the earth; the waters surged onward, as though led by a fierce, resounding roar.

Context

Then the earth looked bright with the fallen and falling shoals of fish, turtles and multitudes of other sea-animals.

Characters & Entities

• Gaṅgā
• Śaṅkara (Śiva)
• earth (dharaṇī)

FAQs

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

Dharma appears as regulated power: even a sacred force must be mediated so it benefits the world without causing harm.

What is the narrative situation?

Gaṅgā descends from heaven, is borne by Śiva, and then released to the earth with tremendous sound and force.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Śiva’s protective restraint—holding and channeling overwhelming energy for the world’s good.