Shloka 2.18.24

अष्टादशः सर्गः — Kaikeyī Discloses the Boons: Exile to Daṇḍaka and Bharata’s Consecration

Devanagari script

धर्ममूलमिदं राम विदितं च सतामपि।तत्सत्यं न त्यजेद्राजा कुपितस्त्वत्कृते यथा।।।।

Transliteration

dharmamūlam idaṃ rāma viditaṃ ca satām api | tat satyaṃ na tyajed rājā kupitas tvat-kṛte yathā ||

Translation

O Rāma, this is the very root of dharma, known even to the virtuous: the king must not abandon that truth—even if he is angered—on your account.

Context

O Rama, this (truth) is the basis of righteousness. The virtuous also know this. The king being angry (with me), should not abandon the truth for your sake.

Characters & Entities

• Kaikeyī
• Rāma
• Daśaratha (king)
• sat (the virtuous)

FAQs

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

Satya is presented as dharma’s foundation: royal dharma requires that a king’s pledged truth not be set aside due to personal attachment.

What is the narrative situation?

Kaikeyī frames her demand as a dharmic necessity: Daśaratha must keep his word even if it harms Rāma’s immediate interests.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

The virtue emphasized is satya (truth-keeping) as a public, kingly obligation—placed above private affection.