Shloka 39
Amba approaches the Paraśurāma context; Hotravāhana’s counsel and Akṛtavraṇa’s report (अम्बोपाख्यानम्—रामदर्शनप्रसङ्गः)
ततः कथान्ते राजर्षिमिहात्मा होत्रवाहन: । राम॑ श्रेष्ठ महर्षीणामपृच्छदकृतव्रणम्,बातचीत समाप्त होनेपर राजर्षि महात्मा होत्रवाहन-ने महर्षियोंमें श्रेष्ठ परशुरामजीके विषयमें अकृतव्रणसे पूछा--
tataḥ kathānte rājarṣir ihātmā hotravāhanaḥ | rāmaṃ śreṣṭhaṃ maharṣīṇām apṛcchad akṛtavraṇam ||
Nang matapos ang pag-uusap, ang maharlikang rishi na dakila ang loob, si Hotravāhana, ay nagtanong kay Akṛtavraṇa tungkol kay Rāma (Paraśurāma), ang pinakadakila sa mga maharshi—nagnanais na malaman ang hinggil sa huwarang taong yaon, na ang buhay ay kaugnay ng wastong dharma at ng nararapat na paggamit ng kapangyarihan.
होत्रवाहन उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights a dharmic method of learning: after a discussion concludes, a wise ruler seeks further clarity by respectfully questioning a qualified knower about an exemplary figure (Paraśurāma), implying that ethical understanding grows through disciplined inquiry and attention to models of conduct.
A prior conversation ends, and Hotravāhana transitions the dialogue by asking Akṛtavraṇa about Rāma/Paraśurāma, setting up the next portion of the account focused on Paraśurāma’s stature and deeds.