Shloka 1.44.18

गङ्गावतरण-समापनः (Conclusion of the Descent of Gaṅgā)

Devanagari script

भगीरथोऽपि राजर्षि: कृत्वा सलिलमुत्तमम्।यथाक्रमं यथान्यायं सागराणां महायशा:।।1.44.17।।कृतोदकश्शुची राजा स्वपुरं प्रविवेश ह।समृद्धार्थो रघुश्रेष्ठ स्वराज्यं प्रशशास ह।।1.44.18।।

Transliteration

kṛtodakaś śucī rājā svapuraṃ praviveśa ha | samṛddhārtho raghuśreṣṭha svarājyaṃ praśaśāsa ha || 1.44.18 ||

Translation

Having completed the water-offerings and become purified, the king entered his own city. O best of the Raghus, his aim fulfilled, he thereafter ruled his kingdom.

Context

The illustrious rajarshi Bhagiratha, performed the rites of offering the sacred water of Ganga, in accordance with proper order and tradition for the sons of Sagara. Purified with the ablutions entered his own city." O Best of the Raghus his desire thus fulfilled he continued to rule the kingdom thereafter".

Characters & Entities

• Bhagīratha
• Rāma (as addressee: raghuśreṣṭha)
• Bhagiratha’s city (unnamed)

FAQs

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

Dharma is duty completed and then sustained: after fulfilling extraordinary obligations, a king must return to orderly governance, maintaining societal stability.

What is the narrative situation?

Bhagiratha finishes the rites, purifies himself, returns to his capital, and resumes ruling after achieving his objective.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Responsible leadership—balancing spiritual obligations with the ongoing duty of just administration.