Shloka 1.63.18

विश्वामित्रस्य तपोविघ्नः, मेनकाप्रसङ्गः, महर्षिपदप्रदानम् (Visvamitra’s Austerity Obstructed; Menaka Episode; Conferment of Maharshi Status)

Devanagari script

महर्षे स्वागतं वत्स तपसोग्रेण तोषित:।महत्त्वमृषिमुख्यत्वं ददामि तव कौशिक ।।।।

Transliteration

maharṣe svāgataṃ vatsa tapasogreṇa toṣitaḥ | mahattvam ṛṣimukhyatvaṃ dadāmi tava kauśika ||

Translation

“Welcome, O Maharṣi—my child! Pleased by the fierceness of your austerities, O Kauśika, I grant you eminence and pre-eminence among sages.”

Context

"O Maharshi! O Child welcome! Pleased with your intense austerities, O Son of Kushika! I confer upon you the eminent rank of a great rishi (maharshi)".

Characters & Entities

• Brahmā
• Viśvāmitra (Kauśika)
• Maharṣi (title/status)

FAQs

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

Dharma teaches that disciplined self-effort (tapas) can transform one’s standing; rightful authority is conferred when inner discipline is proven.

What is the narrative situation?

Brahmā formally welcomes Viśvāmitra and grants him elevated sage-status based on his intense austerities.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Austerity and steadfast striving as the foundation for legitimate spiritual rank.