Shloka 1.63.23

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

Devanagari script

विप्रस्थितेषु देवेषु विश्वामित्रो महामुनि:।ऊर्ध्वबाहुर्निरालम्बो वायुभक्षस्तपश्चरन्।।।।

Transliteration

viprasthiteṣu deveṣu viśvāmitro mahāmuniḥ | ūrdhvabāhur nirālambō vāyubhakṣas tapaścaran ||

Translation

After the gods had departed, the great sage Viśvāmitra continued his austerities—arms raised aloft, without support, living on air alone.

Context

After the departure of the gods, mighty ascetic Viswamitra raised his arms up, stood without support, subsisting on air, continuing with his austerities.

Characters & Entities

• Viśvāmitra
• Devas

FAQs

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

Dharma upholds steadfast effort: when advised to continue, one should persist with discipline rather than seek quick validation.

What is the narrative situation?

Following Brahmā’s departure, Viśvāmitra intensifies and continues his ascetic practice.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Perseverance and extreme self-restraint in pursuit of higher spiritual truth.