Shloka 3.54.29

सीताहरणोत्तरं लङ्काप्रवेशः — Sita’s Abduction and Ravana’s Entry into Lanka

Devanagari script

ततः प्रियं वाक्यमुपेत्य राक्षसा महार्थमष्टावभिवाद्य रावणम्।विहाय लङ्कां सहिताः प्रतस्थिरे यतो जनस्थानमलक्ष्यदर्शनाः।।।।

Transliteration

vastram utsṛjya tanmadhye nikṣiptaṃ sahabhūṣaṇam |

sambhramāt tu daśagrīvas tat karma na sa buddhavān ||

Translation

In the turmoil, Sītā cast down a cloth among them, together with her ornaments; but Daśagrīva (Rāvaṇa), in his agitation, did not grasp what she had done.

Context

The eight demons were glad to hear the pleasing and meaningful words of Ravana. They offered him salutations and left Lanka in the direction of Janasthana without being seen by any one.

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Rāvaṇa (Daśagrīva)

FAQs

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

Even in crisis, Sītā acts with presence of mind and moral clarity—seeking a truthful trace for rescue rather than surrendering to despair.

What is the narrative situation?

During her abduction, Sītā drops her cloth and ornaments as a sign, while Rāvaṇa—overwhelmed by haste—fails to notice.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s courage and practical wisdom (dhairya and mati), expressed through a strategic act grounded in hope and truth.