Shloka 3.45.37

सीतया लक्ष्मणप्रेषणम् — Sita urges Lakshmana to seek Rama (The crisis of the ‘distressed voice’)

Devanagari script

गोदावरीं प्रवेक्ष्यामि विना रामेण लक्ष्मण।अबन्धिष्येऽथवा त्यक्ष्ये विषमे देहमात्मनः।।3.45.37।।

Transliteration

na jagāma tathoktas tu bhrātur ājñāya śāsanam | tam uvāca tatas tatra kupitā janakātmajā || 3.45.4 ||

Translation

Though instructed and fully aware of his brother’s command, he did not depart. Then, there on the spot, Janaka’s daughter Sītā—angered—addressed him.

Context

O Lakshmana without Rama I will drown myself in Godavari or hang myself or leap from a cliff into death.

Characters & Entities

• Lakṣmaṇa
• Rāma
• Sītā (Janakātmajā)
• Janaka

FAQs

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

Dharma here centers on obedience to rightful command and role-based duty: Lakṣmaṇa is torn between protecting Sītā (Rāma’s order) and responding to perceived danger to Rāma.

What is the narrative situation?

In the forest, Lakṣmaṇa hesitates to leave Sītā despite hearing what seems like Rāma’s cry; Sītā becomes angry and confronts him.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Lakṣmaṇa’s restraint and commitment to instruction are implied, while Sītā’s urgency and fear drive the confrontation.