Shloka 2.14.60

सत्यपाशः — Kaikeyi’s Demand and the Noose of the King’s Promise

Devanagari script

सुमन्त्रः करुणं श्रुत्वा दृष्ट्वा दीनं च पार्थिवम्।प्रगृहीताञ्जलिः किञ्चित्तस्माद्देशादपाक्रमत्।।।।

Transliteration

sumantraḥ karuṇaṃ śrutvā dṛṣṭvā dīnaṃ ca pārthivam | pragṛhītāñjaliḥ kiñcit tasmād deśād apākramat ||

Translation

Hearing the king’s sorrowful words and seeing him wretched, Sumantra—hands folded—stepped back a little from that place.

Context

Having heard the sorrowful words of the king and having seen his wretched state Sumantra with palms folded moved away a little from the place.

Characters & Entities

• Sumantra
• Daśaratha

FAQs

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

Dharma as respectful service: when a superior is overwhelmed, a servant-minister shows restraint, reverence, and sensitivity rather than pressing further.

What is the narrative situation?

After Daśaratha’s pained reply, Sumantra respectfully withdraws a short distance.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sumantra’s humility and empathy, expressed through folded hands and measured withdrawal.