Shloka 3.71.30
दनु-शापकथा तथा सीताहरण-प्रश्नः (Danu’s Curse Narrative and Rama’s Inquiry about Sita)
किं तु यावन्न यात्यस्तं सविता श्रान्तवाहनः।।3.71.30।।तावन्मामवटे क्षिप्त्वा दह राम यथाविधि।
kiṃ tu yāvan na yāty astaṃ savitā śrānta-vāhanaḥ | tāvan mām avaṭe kṣiptvā daha rāma yathā-vidhi ||
But before the Sun sets—his steeds grown weary—cast me into a pit and burn me, O Rama, according to the proper rite.
Before the Sun disappears with his tired horses drop me into a pit and cremate me in accordance with tradition, O Rama !
Performing even difficult acts in a prescribed, respectful manner (yathāvidhi) reflects dharma: right ends are pursued through right means and proper rites.
Kabandha requests Rama to complete the act that will end his cursed state—burning him in a pit—before sunset.
Maryādā (propriety): insistence on correct procedure and timely action even amid crisis.