Shloka 1.43.21

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

Devanagari script

शिंशुमारोरगगणैर्मीनैरपि च चञ्चलै:।।।।विद्युद्भिरिव विक्षिप्तमाकाशमभवत्तदा।

Transliteration

śiṃśumāroraga-gaṇair mīnair api ca cañcalaiḥ | vidyudbhir iva vikṣiptam ākāśam abhavat tadā ||

Translation

Then the sky seemed scattered like flashes of lightning, as though filled with restless fish, śiṃśumāras, and multitudes of serpents.

Context

The sky strewn with lightnings appeared as if it was inhabited by sea-animals, serpents and fishes fickle.

Characters & Entities

• sky (ākāśa)
• fish (mīna)
• serpents (uraga)
• śiṃśumāra

FAQs

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

Dharma is the recognition of the extraordinary within rightful order: the universe responds vividly when a righteous aim is fulfilled.

What is the narrative situation?

During the spectacle of Gaṅgā’s descent, the sky appears alive with darting forms, likened to lightning-scatter.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Wonder joined with discernment—seeing sacred meaning in powerful natural imagery rather than mere chaos.