Shloka 2.19.24

एकोनविंशः सर्गः (Sarga 19): Rāma’s Unshaken Acceptance of Exile and Kaikeyī’s Urgency

Devanagari script

न नूनं मयि कैकयि किञ्चिदाशंससे गुणम्।यद्राजानमवोचस्त्वं ममेश्वरतरा सती।।2.19.24।।

Transliteration

na nūnaṃ mayi kaikayi kiñcid āśaṃsase guṇam | yad rājānam avocas tvaṃ mamaiśvaratarā satī ||2.19.24||

Translation

Surely, O Kaikeyī, you do not credit me with even a little virtue—since, though you hold greater authority over me, you pressed the king for this.

Context

Since in my case you have exercised more authority (than my father) and pleaded with the king, it follows, you, for sure, do not see any virtue in me, O Kaikeyi! (Or else, you should not have asked for Bharata's kingship).

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Kaikeyī
• Daśaratha (rājā)

FAQs

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

Even when wronged, Rāma remains within the bounds of decorum, implying that dharma includes restraint and measured speech.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma addresses Kaikeyī’s role in compelling Daśaratha to grant Bharata the kingdom and exile Rāma.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Self-control and dignity under injustice.