Shloka 1.75.1

जामदग्न्य-रामसंवादः — Parashurama Confronts Rama with the Vaishnava Bow

Devanagari script

राम दाशरथे राम वीर्यं ते श्रूयतेऽद्भुतम्।धनुषो भेदनं चैव निखिलेन मया श्रुतम्।।।।

Transliteration

rāma dāśarathe rāma vīryaṃ te śrūyate ’dbhutam | dhanuṣo bhedanaṃ caiva nikhilena mayā śrutam || 1.75.1 ||

Translation

O Rāma, son of Daśaratha—O Rāma! Your marvellous prowess is spoken of everywhere, and I have heard in full of your deed of breaking the bow.

Context

"O Rama, Rama, son of Dasaratha! I have heard in full of your marvellous prowess and your feat in breaking the bow of Siva.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Daśaratha
• Śiva’s bow (implied by later verses as the broken bow)

FAQs

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

Dharma is tied to accountability: celebrated deeds attract scrutiny, and power must be able to withstand lawful challenge and examination.

What is the narrative situation?

Paraśurāma confronts Rāma after hearing of the breaking of Śiva’s bow at Mithilā, initiating a test of strength and legitimacy.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s recognised valour (vīrya) and reputation—his action is significant enough to draw the attention of a formidable ascetic-warrior.