Ramayana — Ayodhya Kanda, Sarga 21, Shloka 14
अयोध्याकाण्डे एकविंशः सर्गः
Lakṣmaṇa’s militant counsel and Rāma’s dharma-based persuasion of Kausalyā
बलमेष किमाश्रित्य हेतुं वापुरुषर्षभ।दातुमिच्छति कैकेय्यै राज्यं स्थितमिदं तव।।2.21.14।।
balam eṣa kim āśritya hetuṃ vā puruṣarṣabha |
dātum icchati kaikeyyai rājyaṃ sthitam idaṃ tava ||2.21.14||
O best of men, relying on what power—or on what reason—does this king wish to give to Kaikeyī the kingdom that rightfully stands as yours?
What authority, O Rama, chastiser of foes, this king has to bestow the kingdom upon Bharata by entering into undesirable hostility towards you and me?
FAQs
It questions legitimacy and rightful succession: dharma in kingship requires decisions grounded in justice and established right, not arbitrary transfer under improper influence.
Lakṣmaṇa challenges the rationale behind Daśaratha’s decision to redirect the kingdom’s succession under Kaikeyī’s demand.
Moral courage to question authority and defend what is perceived as rightful order—paired with intense protectiveness toward Rāma.