Shloka 1.58.20

त्रिशङ्कुशापः — Trishanku’s Curse and Appeal to Viśvāmitra

Devanagari script

यज्ञैर्बहुविधैरिष्टं प्रजा धर्मेण पालिता:।।।।गुरवश्च महात्मान श्शीलवृत्तेन तोषिता:।

Transliteration

yajñair bahuvidhair iṣṭaṃ prajā dharmeṇa pālitāḥ | guravaś ca mahātmānaḥ śīlavṛttena toṣitāḥ ||

Translation

I have offered worship through sacrifices of many kinds; I have protected my subjects in accordance with dharma; and the great elders and teachers have been pleased by my character and conduct.

Context

I have performed various sacirifices and ruled over my people guided by the law of righteousness. I have pleased eminent elders with my conduct and character.

Characters & Entities

• Triśaṅku
• Viśvāmitra
• prajā (subjects)
• yajña (sacrifices)
• gurus/elders

FAQs

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

Rāja-dharma is defined as protecting subjects under righteousness and honoring sacred duties (yajña), linking ethical governance with religious responsibility.

What is the narrative situation?

Triśaṅku argues his worthiness before Viśvāmitra by citing his sacrifices, just rule, and respectful conduct toward elders.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Responsible kingship—duty-bound protection of the people and reverence toward elders.