Ramayana — Ayodhya Kanda, Sarga 97, Shloka 19
भरतागमनशङ्कानिवारणम् / Dispelling Suspicion about Bharata’s Arrival
Chitrakuta Encampment
तथोक्तो धर्मशीलेन भ्रात्रा तस्य हिते रतः।लक्ष्मणः प्रविवेशेव स्वानि गात्राणि लज्जया।।।।
tathokto dharmaśīlena bhrātrā tasya hite rataḥ | lakṣmaṇaḥ praviveśeva svāni gātrāṇi lajjayā ||
Thus addressed by his dharma-minded brother, devoted to his welfare, Lakshmana—overcome with shame—seemed to shrink back into his own limbs.
When sagacious Bharata of great strength has come here, where is the need for a bow or a sword or a shield.
FAQs
Dharma includes receptivity to correction: Lakshmana’s shame shows moral sensitivity and willingness to be guided by righteous counsel.
After Rama’s firm yet ethical reprimand, Lakshmana feels embarrassed and withdraws his aggressive stance.
Lakshmana’s humility and self-restraint—he can step back when corrected by dharma.