Shloka 1.9.8

ऋश्यशृङ्गानयनकथा — The Account of Bringing Ṛśyaśṛṅga (and the Remedy for Drought)

Devanagari script

तस्य व्यतिक्रमाद्राज्ञो भविष्यति सुदारुणा ।अनावृष्टिस्सुघोरा वै सर्वभूतभयावहा ।।।।

Transliteration

tasya vyatikramād rājño bhaviṣyati sudāruṇā |

anāvṛṣṭiḥ sughorā vai sarvabhūtabhayāvahā ||1.9.8||

Translation

If that king violates proper conduct, a most dreadful drought will arise—terrifying to all living beings.

Context

Because of violation of code of conduct by the king, a terrible, dreadful drought frightening all living beings will set in the kingdom.

Characters & Entities

• King (rājā/rājñaḥ)
• Drought (anāvṛṣṭi)

FAQs

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

Rāja-dharma is not private morality alone; the king’s conduct sustains public welfare. Transgression at the top produces collective suffering, symbolized by drought.

What is the narrative situation?

A warning is given that a ruler’s violation of proper norms leads to calamity for the entire realm.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Accountability in leadership—the ideal king must be self-governed because his actions govern the fate of others.