Shloka 2.16.31

सुमन्त्रदर्शनम् तथा रामस्य राजदर्शनाय प्रस्थानम् (Sumantra Meets Rama; Rama Departs to See the King)

Devanagari script

स पर्जन्य इवाकाशे स्वनवानभिनादयन्।।।।निकेतान्निर्ययौ श्रीमान्महाभ्रादिव चन्द्रमाः।

Transliteration

chatracāmarapāṇis tu lakṣmaṇo rāghavānujaḥ |

jugopa bhrātaraṃ bhrātā ratham āsthāya pṛṣṭhataḥ ||

Translation

Lakṣmaṇa, Rāma’s younger brother, holding the parasol and the yak-tail fan, mounted the chariot behind and, as a true brother, kept watch over his brother.

Context

The magnificent chariot, rumbling like a stormcloud in the sky, emerged from (Rama's) residence like the Moon peeping through a huge cloud.

Characters & Entities

• Lakṣmaṇa
• Rāma (Rāghava)
• parasol (chatra)
• yak-tail fan (cāmara)
• chariot (ratha)

FAQs

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

Fraternal dharma and sevā (service): Lakṣmaṇa’s duty is protective loyalty—supporting righteous leadership through personal vigilance and humble attendance.

What is the narrative situation?

As Rāma proceeds in the chariot, Lakṣmaṇa rides behind, bearing royal insignia (parasol and fan) and acting as guard.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Lakṣmaṇa’s unwavering devotion (bhakti-like loyalty) and readiness to protect—service without self-assertion.