Shloka 3.53.16

सीताविलापः रावणनिन्दा च (Sita’s Lament and Condemnation of Ravana)

Devanagari script

न नूनं चात्मनः पथ्यं श्रेयो वा समवेक्षसे।।3.53.16।।मृत्युकाले यथा मर्त्यो विपरीतानि सेवते।

Transliteration

roṣa-rodana-tāmrākṣī bhīmākṣaṃ rākṣasādhipam |

rudantī karuṇaṃ sītā hriyamāṇedam abravīt ||3.53.2||

Translation

As she was being carried away, Sītā wept piteously—her eyes reddened by anger and grief—and, facing the rākṣasa-lord with his terrifying gaze, she spoke these words.

Context

At the time of death, mortals behave very differently. They act contrary to their own welfare. Likewise you are not able to foresee what is beneficial and good for you.

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Rāvaṇa

FAQs

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

Dharma is framed as moral clarity under crisis: even in violation and fear, Sītā speaks with principled resolve, preparing to uphold truth and righteousness.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa has abducted Sītā; as she is being carried away, the narration introduces her direct admonition to him.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s steadfastness (dhairya) and moral courage—she does not collapse into silence, but confronts adharma with speech grounded in truth.