Shloka 2.11.17

कैकेयीवरप्रार्थना — Kaikeyi Demands the Two Boons

Devanagari script

इति देवी महेष्वासं परिगृह्याभिशस्य च।ततः परमुवाचेदं वरदं काममोहितम्।।।।

Transliteration

iti devī maheṣvāsaṃ parigṛhyābhiśasya ca | tataḥ param uvācedaṃ varadaṃ kāmamohitam || 2.11.17 ||

Translation

So spoke the queen; clasping the great archer, flattering him, she then addressed the boon-giver—now deluded by desire.

Context

Clasping the great archer, the infatuated king, conferer of boons and flattering him (to the top of her bent), the queen said:

Characters & Entities

• Kaikeyī
• Daśaratha

FAQs

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

The verse cautions that when desire clouds judgment, one becomes vulnerable to flattery and coercion; dharma requires clarity (viveka) and steadiness.

What is the narrative situation?

The narration depicts Kaikeyī using physical closeness and praise to influence Daśaratha immediately before presenting her request.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Discernment and composure—especially for a ruler—so that decisions remain aligned with dharma rather than driven by moha (delusion).