Shloka 2.13.22

अयोध्याकाण्डे त्रयोदशः सर्गः | Kaikeyi Presses the Boons; Dasaratha’s Lament and Collapse

Devanagari script

प्रसीद देवि रामोमेत्वद्दत्तं राज्यमव्यम्।।।।लभतामसितापाङ्गे यशः परमवाप्नु हि।

Transliteration

prasīda devi! rāmo me tvad-dattaṃ rājyam avyayam | labhatām asitāpāṅge yaśaḥ param avāpnu hi ||

Translation

Be gracious, O queen. Bestow upon Rāma this enduring kingship that is mine; and you, O dark-lashed one, shall surely attain the highest fame.

Context

O queen with beautiful, dark eyelashes, show pity on me. Let Rama receive this unbounded kingdom through you and you acquire fame.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Kaikeyī
• Rāma
• rājya (kingship)

FAQs

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

Daśaratha appeals to dharma through rightful succession and public honor: granting Rāma the kingdom preserves order and earns lasting renown, implying that righteous action naturally yields true fame.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha pleads with Kaikeyī to relent from her harsh demand and to allow Rāma to receive the kingdom.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Daśaratha’s concern for righteous governance and reputation grounded in dharma, even while personally distressed.