Shloka 1.5.10

अयोध्यानगरवर्णनम् (Description of Ayodhya and the Ikshvaku Royal Setting)

Devanagari script

कवाटतोरणवतीं सुविभक्तान्तरापणाम् ।सर्वयन्त्रायुधवतीमुपेतां सर्वशिल्पिभि: ।।।।

Transliteration

kavāṭatoraṇavatīṁ suvibhaktāntarāpaṇām | sarvayantrāyudhavatīm upetāṁ sarvaśilpibhiḥ ||

Translation

It had arched gateways with panelled doors and well-arranged inner markets; it was furnished with every kind of instrument and weapon, sustained by artisans of every craft.

Context

The city where all kinds of artificers lived had arched outer gateways, well-arranged local markets and all kinds of instruments and weapons.

Characters & Entities

• āpaṇa (markets)
• toraṇa (gateways)
• śilpin (artisans)
• āyudha (weapons)

FAQs

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

Dharma of governance includes public welfare and protection: a well-built city with markets, crafts, and defenses reflects responsible kingship.

What is the narrative situation?

The narrator describes the city’s infrastructure—gates, markets, artisans, and armaments—to show its prosperity and preparedness.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Administrative competence: the implied royal virtue is foresight—supporting livelihoods (crafts/markets) while ensuring security (weapons).