Shloka 2.20.15

अयोध्याकाण्डे विंशः सर्गः — Rama Enters Kauśalyā’s Antaḥpura; Ritual Preparations and the Shock of Exile

Devanagari script

सा क्षौमवसना हृष्टा नित्यं व्रतपरायणा।अग्निं जुहोति स्म तदा मन्त्रवत्कृतमङ्गला।।।।

Transliteration

sā kṣauma-vasanā hṛṣṭā nityaṃ vrata-parāyaṇā | agniṃ juhoti sma tadā mantra-vat kṛta-maṅgalā || 2.20.15 ||

Translation

Clad in fine linen and joyful, ever devoted to vows, she then offered oblations into the fire according to mantra, having completed the auspicious rites.

Context

Always engaged in the observance of vows, Kausalya (then) clad in silk cloth was performing rituals of auspiciousness, offering oblations to the fire-god in accordance with mantras (Vedic hymns).

Characters & Entities

• Kauśalyā (implied)
• Agni
• mantras
• vows (vrata)

FAQs

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

Household dharma is upheld through disciplined vows and correct ritual action; devotion is expressed with order, purity, and mantra-guided practice.

What is the narrative situation?

Kauśalyā is engaged in morning rites—homa/oblations into Agni—performed with mantras and auspicious observances.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Religious discipline (vrata) and steadiness in sacred duty, reflecting a life oriented toward satya and dharma.