Shloka 2.20.22

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

Devanagari script

तमुवाच दुराधर्षं राघवं सुतमात्मनः।कौशल्या पुत्रवात्सल्यादिदं प्रियहितं वचः।।।।

Transliteration

tam uvāca durādharṣaṃ rāghavaṃ sutam ātmanaḥ |

kauśalyā putravātsalyād idaṃ priyahitaṃ vacaḥ ||

Translation

Then Kauśalyā, out of deep motherly love, spoke to her own son Rāghava—the invincible—words that were pleasing and meant for his good.

Context

Out of love for her son, the invincible scion of the Raghu dynasty, Kausalya spoke with gentle and pleasant words:

Characters & Entities

• Kauśalyā
• Rāma (Rāghava)

FAQs

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

Dharma includes benevolent speech: counsel should be both kind (priya) and truly beneficial (hita), especially from elders to the young.

What is the narrative situation?

Kauśalyā begins to address Rāma affectionately, preparing to offer blessings and guidance.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Kauśalyā’s caring wisdom—love expressed through guidance aimed at her son’s welfare.