Shloka 2.20.20

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

Devanagari script

सा चिरस्यात्मजं दृष्ट्वा मातृनन्दनमागतम्।अभिचक्राम संहृष्टा किशोरं बडबा यथा।।।।

Transliteration

sā cirasyātmajaṃ dṛṣṭvā mātṛnandanam āgatam |

abhicakrāma saṃhṛṣṭā kiśoraṃ baḍabā yathā ||

Translation

After a long while, seeing her own son arrive—the very joy of a mother—she hastened toward him in gladness, like a mare rushing to her young foal.

Context

Seeing her son who had come after a long time and who is a source of joy to hismother, Kausalya approached him with great delight like a mare to her young calf.

Characters & Entities

• Kauśalyā
• Rāma

FAQs

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

Dharma is supported by natural bonds responsibly held—family affection becomes a force that sustains moral life, even amid impending sorrow.

What is the narrative situation?

Kauśalyā sees Rāma arrive and impulsively moves toward him with maternal joy.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Kauśalyā’s tender, wholehearted love—uncalculated affection that seeks closeness and blessing.