Ramayana — Bala Kanda, Sarga 24, Shloka 13
गङ्गा–सरयू-सङ्गमः, मलद–करूश-देशकथा, ताटकावनप्रवेशोपदेशः
The Confluence of Gaṅgā and Sarayū; the Tale of Malada–Karūśa; Counsel on Tātakā’s Forest
अहो वनमिदं दुर्गं झिल्लिकागणनादितम्।भैरवैश्शपदै: पूर्णं शकुन्तैर्दारुणारुतै:।।1.24.13।।
aho vanam idaṃ durgaṃ jhillikā-gaṇa-nāditam | bhairavaiḥ śvapadaiḥ pūrṇaṃ śakuntair dāruṇārutaiḥ || 1.24.13 ||
“അഹോ! ഈ വനം അത്യന്തം ദുര്ഗമം—ചില്ലിക്കകളുടെ നിരന്തര നാദം മുഴങ്ങുന്നു; ഭയാനക മൃഗങ്ങളാൽ നിറഞ്ഞിരിക്കുന്നു; കഠിനമായ കരച്ചിൽ മുഴക്കുന്ന പക്ഷികളാൽ വ്യാപിച്ചിരിക്കുന്നു.”
"What a wonder! This inaccessible forest echoes with the (shrill) chirpings of crickets It is filled with ferocious beasts and birds producing fearful sounds.
FAQs
Dharma requires truthful perception and clear speech: Rāma accurately describes danger without panic, preparing for responsible action.
Rāma observes the ominous forest—its sounds and threatening life—and voices his assessment to Viśvāmitra.
Steady courage: acknowledging fearsome signs while remaining composed and duty-ready.