Shloka 2.12.20

द्वादशः सर्गः — Kaikeyi’s Boons and Dasaratha’s Moral Collapse (Ayodhya Kanda 12)

Devanagari script

नहि किञ्चिदयुक्तं वा विप्रियं वा पुरा मम।अकरोस्त्वं विशालाक्षि तेन न श्रद्दधाम्यहम्।।।।

Transliteration

nahi kiñcid ayuktaṃ vā vipriyaṃ vā purā mama |

akaros tvaṃ viśālākṣi tena na śraddadhāmy aham || 2.12.20 ||

Translation

Never before have you done anything improper or hurtful toward me, O large-eyed lady; therefore I do not believe what I am hearing now.

Context

O largeeyed lady, you have never done anything improper or unpalatable towards me in the past. Therefore I do not believe your words.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Kaikeyī

FAQs

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

It underscores relational dharma grounded in past conduct: trust is built on consistent righteousness, and sudden demands invite scrutiny.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha addresses Kaikeyī, recalling her earlier goodwill and expressing disbelief at her present stance.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Daśaratha’s fairness and reliance on character-evidence, even as he stands at the edge of betrayal.