Shloka 1.74.21

परशुरामप्रादुर्भावः — The Appearance of Parasurama on the Return from Mithila

Devanagari script

तं दृष्ट्वा भीमसङ्काशं ज्वलन्तमिव पावकम्।वसिष्ठप्रमुखा विप्रा जपहोमपरायणा:।।।।सङ्गता मुनयस्सर्वे सञ्जजल्पुरथो मिथ:।

Transliteration

gacchantaṃ taṃ tu rājānam anvagacchan narādhipaḥ |

atha rājā videhānāṃ dadau kanyādhanaṃ bahu ||

Translation

As King Daśaratha set out, King Janaka followed him for a distance; and then the lord of the Videhas bestowed abundant bridal gifts for his daughters.

Context

At the sight of the fearful appearance of Parasurama looking like flaming fire, Vasishta and all other saints who were in the habit of chanting mantras and offering oblations to the fire whispered among themselves:

Characters & Entities

• Janaka
• Daśaratha
• Videha
• Mithilā (implied by Janaka)

FAQs

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

The verse highlights royal and familial dharma: a father responsibly provides for his daughters at marriage, and a king acts with generosity and propriety toward guests and allies.

What is the narrative situation?

After the wedding celebrations at Mithilā, Daśaratha begins the return journey; Janaka accompanies him briefly and then gives substantial bridal gifts.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Janaka’s dāna (generosity) and maryādā (propriety in social rites).