Shloka 3.56.1

सीताया रावणनिन्दा — अशोकवनिकाप्रवेशः (Sita’s Rebuke of Ravana; Removal to the Ashoka Grove)

Devanagari script

सा तथोक्ता तु वैदेही निर्भया शोककर्शिता।तृणमन्तरतः कृत्वा रावणं प्रत्यभाषत।।।।

Transliteration

sā tathoktā tu vaidehī nirbhayā śokakarśitā |

tṛṇam antarataḥ kṛtvā rāvaṇaṃ pratyabhāṣata ||

Translation

Thus addressed, Vaidehī—though worn down by grief—fearlessly placed a blade of grass between herself and Rāvaṇa and spoke in reply.

Context

Thus addressed by Ravana, Sita, immersed in deep sorrow and unafraid of him, placed a blade of grass between her and him (intending not to speak to him straight) and replied:

Characters & Entities

• Sītā (Vaidehī)
• Rāvaṇa
• tṛṇa (blade of grass)

FAQs

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

Maintaining moral boundaries under threat is dharma. The blade of grass symbolizes refusal, distance, and unwavering fidelity to what is right.

What is the narrative situation?

In Laṅkā/palace setting after abduction, Sītā responds to Rāvaṇa’s words, marking a clear boundary before speaking.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Fearless chastity and moral clarity (steadfastness to Rāma and to truth), expressed through symbolic action and composed speech.