Shloka 1.71.1

जनककुलवर्णनम् तथा सीतोर्मिलादानम् (Janaka’s Genealogy and the Bestowal of Sita and Urmila)

Devanagari script

एवं ब्रुवाणं जनक: प्रत्युवाच कृताञ्जलि:।श्रोतुमर्हसि भद्रं ते कुलं न: परिकीर्तितम्।।।।

Transliteration

evaṃ bruvāṇaṃ janakaḥ pratyuvāca kṛtāñjaliḥ |

śrotum arhasi bhadraṃ te kulaṃ naḥ parikīrtitam || 1.71.1 ||

Translation

As he spoke thus, Janaka replied with folded hands: “Welfare be to you. It is fitting that you now hear the genealogy of our house as it is recounted.”

Context

Vasishta having thus described (the genealogy of Dasaratha) Janaka with folded hands rejoined, "Be blessed. Let me relate the genealogy of my race. Listen".

Characters & Entities

• Janaka
• Genealogy of Janaka’s house (Videha line; implied)

FAQs

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

Truthful self-presentation with humility: Janaka honors the prior account and, with respectful demeanor, offers an accurate lineage narrative as required by dharma in alliances.

What is the narrative situation?

After hearing Daśaratha’s genealogy, Janaka prepares to present his own family line to the assembly.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Janaka’s humility and reverence (kṛtāñjali) alongside commitment to truthful narration (satya).