Shloka 1.48.16

अहल्याशापवर्णनम् (The Account of Ahalyā’s Curse and the Deserted Hermitage near Mithilā)

Devanagari script

स चेह तप आतिष्ठदहल्यासहित: पुरा।।।।वर्षपूगाननेकांश्च राजपुत्र महायश:।

Transliteration

sa ceha tapa ātiṣṭhad ahalyāsahitaḥ purā || varṣapūgān anekāṃś ca rājaputra mahāyaśaḥ |

Translation

Here, long ago, that illustrious one practiced austerities for many stretches of years, together with Ahalyā, O prince of great renown.

Context

O Highly renowned prince! it was here in ancient times that Gautama in the company of Ahalya practised austerities for several years.

Characters & Entities

• Viśvāmitra
• Rāma
• Gautama
• Ahalyā

FAQs

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

Dharma is sustained by long discipline: the verse highlights tapas over time, implying that moral and spiritual authority is earned through sustained self-control.

What is the narrative situation?

Viśvāmitra describes Gautama and Ahalyā residing here and performing austerities for many years.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Ascetic perseverance (tapas) and steadiness—qualities that make the later violation of dharma in this setting especially grave.