Tataḥ prādurbabhūva Rāghvāya mahat kṛtam

Tataḥ (then) mahat (great) kṛtam (deed) Rāghvāya (for Rāma) prādurbabhūva (appeared)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): The verse 'tataḥ prādurbabhūva rāghvāya mahat kṛtam' signifies the unfolding of a great deed for Rāghava, which can be interpreted as the manifestation of the ultimate reality, Brahman, through the agency of Rāghava. According to Shankara, the ultimate reality is beyond human comprehension, yet it is through such great deeds that the veil of ignorance is lifted, and the non-dual nature of Brahman is revealed. In his commentary on the Brahmasūtra (1.1.2), Shankara argues that the ultimate goal is to realize the identity of Brahman and Ātman, and this verse points to that direction by highlighting the extraordinary nature of Rāghava's deeds, which serve as a catalyst for spiritual growth and self-realization. The emphasis on 'mahat kṛtam' underscores the significance of Rāghava's actions, which are not limited to the mundane realm but have far-reaching implications for the comprehension of the ultimate reality. This interpretation aligns with Shankara's reasoning in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā (18.66), where he discusses the relationship between the individual self and the ultimate reality, emphasizing the importance of self-surrender and devotion in achieving spiritual liberation.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse is seen as a testament to the divine providence and the special relationship between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā (18.66), emphasizes the importance of prapatti, or self-surrender, as a means of achieving spiritual liberation. The 'mahat kṛtam' done for Rāghava symbolizes the Lord's gracious intervention in the life of the devotee, highlighting the reciprocal relationship between the devotee and the divine. This verse underscores the idea that the Lord's actions are always for the benefit of the devotee, and that the devotee's role is to surrender and have faith in the Lord's grace. Madhvācārya, in his commentary on the Mahabharata (3.313.93), further elaborates on this concept, emphasizing the distinction between the Lord and the individual self, while also highlighting the intimate relationship between them. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of cultivating devotion and reliance on the Lord's will, as exemplified by Rāghava's unwavering dedication to his duty and faith in the divine plan.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): The verse 'tataḥ prādurbabhūva rāghvāya mahat kṛtam' holds significant relevance in the context of contemporary life, as it highlights the importance of selfless action and the pursuit of a higher purpose. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lecture 'The Message of Vedanta' (Complete Works, 3.243), emphasizes the need for individuals to transcend their petty interests and strive for the greater good. The 'mahat kṛtam' done for Rāghava represents the ideal of selfless service, where the individual ego is subordinated to the pursuit of a higher goal. S. Radhakrishnan, in his book 'An Idealist View of Life' (1929, p. 123), further elaborates on this concept, highlighting the importance of cultivating a sense of detachment and objectivity in the face of life's challenges. This verse serves as a reminder that true fulfillment and happiness can be achieved by aligning one's actions with a higher purpose, and by cultivating a sense of selflessness and devotion. As such, it offers a powerful message for contemporary society, encouraging individuals to move beyond their narrow self-interests and strive for the betterment of humanity as a whole.

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