Shloka 3.55.32

रावणस्य सीताप्रलोभनम् (Ravana’s Attempt to Allure Sita)

Devanagari script

एवं वदति तस्मित्सा वस्त्रान्तेन वराङ्गना।पिधायेन्दुनिभं सीता मुखमश्रूण्यवर्तयत्।।3.55.32।।

Transliteration

evaṃ vadati tasmin sā vastrāntena varāṅganā | pidhāyendu-nibhaṃ sītā mukham aśrūṇy avartayat || 3.55.32 ||

Translation

As he spoke thus, Sītā—the noble woman—covered her moon-like face with the edge of her garment and stood, letting tears flow.

Context

As Ravana went on speaking thus, Sita covered her beautiful, moon-like face with the edge of her garment and stood shedding tears.

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Rāvaṇa

FAQs

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

Dharma here is endurance without moral compromise: Sītā responds to harassment not with acceptance but with modesty, sorrow, and steadfast refusal.

What is the narrative situation?

During Rāvaṇa’s continued persuasion, Sītā withdraws emotionally—covering her face and weeping—showing distress and rejection.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s modesty (lajjā) and fidelity are emphasized; her tears express pain but also unwavering commitment to righteousness.