Shloka 1.5.24

अयोध्यानगरवर्णनम् (Description of Ayodhya and the Ikshvaku Royal Setting)

Devanagari script

दुर्गगम्भीरपरिखां दुर्गामन्यैर्दुरासदाम् ।

वाजिवारणसम्पूर्णां गोभिरुष्ट्रैः खरैस्तथा ॥

Transliteration

durgagambhīraparikhāṃ durgāmanyairdurāsadām |

vājivāraṇasampūrṇāṃ gobhiruṣṭraiḥ kharaistathā ||

Translation

That city was girded by a deep and formidable moat, hard to cross and thus unassailable to enemies. It teemed with horses, elephants, cows, camels, and donkeys, signifying its military might and prosperity.

Characters & Entities

• Ayodhya
• Horses
• Elephants
• Cows
• Camels
• Donkeys

FAQs

What is the significance of the deep moat described in this verse?

The deep moat (Parikha) symbolizes the King's Dharma to provide 'Raksha' (protection) to his subjects, ensuring the city remains 'Durgam' (impenetrable) to adharmic forces or invaders.

Why does the verse list various animals like camels and donkeys alongside horses and elephants?

While horses and elephants represent military might (Chaturanga-bala), the inclusion of cows, camels, and donkeys highlights the city's commercial prosperity and logistical self-sufficiency, indicating a holistic adherence to Artha (economic stability) alongside Dharma.