Shloka 1.8.7
अष्टमः सर्गः — Daśaratha Resolves on the Aśvamedha (Horse-Sacrifice) for Progeny
तान्पूजयित्वा धर्मात्मा राजा दशरथस्तदा।इदं धर्मार्थसहितं श्लक्ष्णंवचनमब्रवीत्।।।।
tāsāṃ tenātikāntena vacanena suvarcasām |
mukha-padmāny aśobhanta padmānīva himātyaye ||
By those exceedingly delightful words, the radiant queens’ lotus-like faces shone—like lotuses blooming when winter has passed.
Virtuous king Dasaratha paid homage to them (the ministers) and uttered these gracious, righteous and meaningful words.
A dharmic undertaking brings inner clarity and auspicious joy; disciplined intention in righteous action is portrayed as dispelling gloom like winter’s end.
After Daśaratha’s announcement, the queens respond with visible happiness and renewed hope.
The queens’ receptive faith and auspicious disposition—glad acceptance of a disciplined path toward a righteous aim.