Shloka 3.13.20

पञ्चवटी-निर्देशः (Agastya Directs Rama to Panchavati)

Devanagari script

स हि रम्यो वनोद्देशो मैथिली तत्र रंस्यते।स देशश्श्लाघनीयश्च नातिदूरे च राघव।।।।

Transliteration

sa hi ramyo vanoddeśo maithilī tatra raṃsyate | sa deśaḥ ślāghanīyaś ca nātidūre ca rāghava ||

Translation

That forest region is truly delightful; Maithilī will take joy there. That place is praiseworthy, O Rāghava, and it is not far away.

Context

O Raghava, that forest tract is delightful and beautiful. It is not far away(from here). Maithili (Sita) will enjoy her stay there.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Sītā (Maithilī)
• forest region (vanoddeśa)

FAQs

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

Dharma includes responsible guardianship—choosing a safe, suitable dwelling that supports the well-being of one’s family during hardship.

What is the narrative situation?

Agastya recommends a nearby, commendable forest location where Sītā can live comfortably.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s protective responsibility (as husband and leader) is implicitly addressed through the sage’s practical guidance.