Shloka 3.52.13

सीताहरण-विलापः / The Lament at Jatāyu and the Abduction of Sītā

Devanagari script

स तु तां राम रामेति रुदन्तीं लक्ष्मणेति च।जगामादाय चाकाशं रावणो राक्षसाधिपः।।।।

Transliteration

sa tu tāṃ rāma rām eti rudantīṃ lakṣmaṇeti ca |

jagāma ādāya cākāśaṃ rāvaṇo rākṣasādhipaḥ ||

Translation

But Rāvaṇa, lord of the rākṣasas, seized her and rose into the sky, while she wept, crying, “Rāma! Rāma!” and “Lakṣmaṇa!”

Context

While Sita was crying, 'O Rama, O Lakshmana', Ravana, lord of the demons, carried her back into the sky.

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Sītā
• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa
• Ākāśa (sky)

FAQs

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

The verse highlights adharma as coercion and violation of another’s freedom; Sītā’s cry invokes rightful protectors, underscoring that dharma stands with the vulnerable against tyranny.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa carries Sītā away through the sky as she calls out to Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa for rescue.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s steadfast fidelity and moral clarity—calling for Rāma—contrasts with Rāvaṇa’s lawless power.