Shloka 3.13.3

पञ्चवटी-निर्देशः (Agastya Directs Rama to Panchavati)

Devanagari script

एषा हि सुकुमारी च दुःखैश्च न विमानिता।प्राज्यदोषं वनं प्राप्ता भर्तृस्नेहप्रचोदिता।।।।

Transliteration

etad ālakṣyate vīra madhūkānāṃ mahad vanam | uttareṇāsya gantavyaṃ nyagrodham abhigacchatā ||

Translation

O hero, here is seen a vast forest of madhūka trees. Keeping to its northern side, proceed onward as you go toward the banyan tree.

Context

Even though delicate, Sita never feels discouraged by difficulties. She has come to the forest full of obstacles, since she is motivated by her love for her husband.

Characters & Entities

• Agastya
• Rama
• madhūka forest
• nyagrodha (banyan tree)

FAQs

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

Respecting and following the guidance of a truthful sage is part of righteous conduct, especially in uncertain wilderness journeys.

What is the narrative situation?

Agastya gives Rama precise route-markers—madhūka forest and a banyan tree—leading toward Panchavatī.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rama’s disciplined obedience and attentiveness to wise counsel (vinaya and samādhāna).