Shloka 2.19.28

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

Devanagari script

वन्दित्वा चरणौ रामो विसंज्ञस्य पितुस्तथा।कैकेय्याश्चाप्यनार्यायाः निष्पपात महाद्युतिः।।2.19.28।।

Transliteration

vanditvā caraṇau rāmo visaṃjñasya pitus tathā | kaikeyyāś cāpy anāryāyāḥ niṣpapāta mahādyutiḥ ||2.19.28||

Translation

The radiant Rāma bowed to the feet of his father, who had fallen senseless; he also bowed to the feet of Kaikeyī—called ignoble—and then departed.

Context

Effulgent Rama bowed at the feet of his father who had fallen into a swoon. He bowed at the feet of the ignoble Kaikeyi and set out.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Daśaratha
• Kaikeyī

FAQs

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

Dharma includes unwavering courtesy and respect—even toward those who have acted wrongly—while proceeding firmly with one’s duty.

What is the narrative situation?

After Daśaratha collapses in grief, Rāma pays formal respects and begins the course toward exile.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Forbearance, humility, and adherence to royal decorum (maryādā).