Shloka 4.41.8

दक्षिणदिशि सीतान्वेषण-आदेशः (Commissioning the Southern Search for Sītā)

Devanagari script

सहस्रशिरसं विन्ध्यं नानाद्रुमलतायुतम्।नर्मदां च नदीं रम्यां महोरगनिषेविताम्।।।।ततो गोदावरीं रम्यां कृष्णवेणीं महानदीम्।वरदां च महाभागां महोरगनिषेविताम्।।।।मेखलामुत्कलां चैव दशार्णनगराण्यपि।आश्ववन्तीमवन्तीं च सर्वामेवानुपश्यत।।।।

Transliteration

sahasra-śirasaṃ vindhyaṃ nānā-druma-latā-yutam | narmadāṃ ca nadīṃ ramyāṃ mahā-uraga-niṣevitām ||

Translation

Survey the Vindhya range with its thousand-peaked heights, thick with varied trees and creepers, and also the lovely river Narmadā, frequented by mighty serpents.

Context

'Search for Sita all over Vindhya of a thousand peaks filled with several trees and creepers, and along the river Narmada. Then proceed to Godavari, lovely Krishnaveni, Mahanadi, Varada and Mahabhaga inhabited by terrific serpents.You may search Mekhala, Utkala and Dasarna cities, Asvavanti and Avanti countries also.

Characters & Entities

• Vindhya
• Narmadā

FAQs

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

Dharma is steadfast pursuit of a righteous goal despite danger: the mission requires entering difficult, fearsome terrains without abandoning duty.

What is the narrative situation?

Sugrīva begins listing the southern route and notable regions where the monkeys should search for traces of Sītā.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Perseverance and courage in undertaking hazardous travel for a just cause.