Shloka 1.5.13

अयोध्यानगरवर्णनम् (Description of Ayodhya and the Ikshvaku Royal Setting)

Devanagari script

दुर्गगम्भीरपरिघां दुर्गामन्यैर्दुरासदाम् ।वाजिवारणसम्पूर्णां गोभिरुष्ट्रै: खरैस्तथा ।।।।

Transliteration

durgagambhīraparighāṁ durgām anyair durāsadām | vājivāraṇasampūrṇāṁ gobhir uṣṭraiḥ kharais tathā ||

Translation

It was a fortress with strong defenses and a deep moat, hard for others to approach; it was filled with horses and elephants, and likewise with cattle, camels, and mules.

Context

It was enclosed by strong fortifications and a deep moat. No enemy can ever enter and occupy that city. It abounded with several elephants and horses, cattle, camels and mules.

Characters & Entities

• durga (fortress)
• parikha/parigha (moat/defense)
• vāji (horses)
• vāraṇa (elephants)
• go (cattle)
• uṣṭra (camels)
• khara (mules)

FAQs

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

A ruler’s dharma includes safeguarding the community: strong defenses and abundant resources symbolize protection and stability for subjects.

What is the narrative situation?

The epic emphasizes the city’s impregnability and material abundance as part of its ideal portrayal.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Protective vigilance: the implied virtue of leadership is preparedness to prevent harm and ensure continuity of life and economy.