Shloka 2.20.44

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

Devanagari script

नित्यक्रोधतया तस्याः कथं नु खरवादितत्।कैकेय्या वदनं द्रष्टुं पुत्र शक्ष्यामि दुर्गता।।।।

Transliteration

nityakrodhatayā tasyāḥ kathaṃ nu kharavāditat | kaikeyyā vadanaṃ draṣṭuṃ putra śakṣyāmi durgatā ||

Translation

Wretched as I am, my son—how shall I be able to look upon Kaikeyī’s face, she who is ever angry and harsh of speech?

Context

Fallen into an unfortunate state how can I look at Kaikeyi's face who is always harsh and in temper?

Characters & Entities

• Kaikeyī
• Rāma

FAQs

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

The verse highlights the moral struggle of maintaining restraint and dignity amid injustice; Dharma here is the inner discipline to endure grief without abandoning righteousness.

What is the narrative situation?

Kausalyā laments to Rāma after the exile decree, expressing her anguish and humiliation at having to face Kaikeyī, whom she views as cruel and perpetually angry.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Kausalyā’s honesty and emotional transparency are emphasized; she does not disguise her pain, even while remaining within the bounds of decorum.