Shloka 2.1.10
गुणप्रशंसा–युवराजनिर्णयः (Praise of Rama’s Virtues and the Decision on the Heir-Apparent)
स तु नित्यं प्रशान्तात्मा मृदुपूर्वं च भाषते।उच्यमानोऽपि परुषं नोत्तरं प्रतिपद्यते।।।।
sa tu nityaṃ praśāntātmā mṛdu-pūrvaṃ ca bhāṣate | ucyamāno 'pi paruṣaṃ na uttaraṃ pratipadyate ||
Ever serene in mind, he spoke first with gentleness; even when addressed harshly, he did not reply in kind.
With an unfailing serenity of mind, Rama never paid back harshness with harshness.
Forbearance and restraint in speech: dharma is upheld by refusing to mirror another’s harshness, preserving truthfulness and dignity in communication.
The narrator describes Rāma’s character, highlighting his consistent gentleness even under provocation.
Śama and kṣānti—inner calm and patience, expressed as non-retaliation in speech.