Shloka 2.11.10

कैकेयीवरप्रार्थना — Kaikeyi Demands the Two Boons

Devanagari script

बलमात्मनि जानन्ती न मां शङ्कितुमर्हसि।करिष्यामि तव प्रीतिं सुकृतेनापि ते शपे।।।।

Transliteration

balam ātmani jānantī na māṃ śaṅkitum arhasi | kariṣyāmi tava prītiṃ sukṛtenāpi te śape || 2.11.10 ||

Translation

Knowing the power you hold over me, you ought not to doubt me. I swear by my own merit: I will do what brings you pleasure.

Context

You know fully the authority you wield over me. Therefore, it does not behove you to doubt me. I swear on my acquired merits that I shall do whatever pleases you.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Kaikeyī

FAQs

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

The binding force of a pledged word: truthfulness (satya) and reliability in relationships and kingship are treated as sacred obligations.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha reassures Kaikeyī that he will fulfill her desire, setting the stage for her to articulate the boons she intends to claim.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Satya (truthfulness) and commitment—Daśaratha presents himself as one whose word can be trusted.