Shloka 2.21.15

अयोध्याकाण्डे एकविंशः सर्गः — Lakṣmaṇa’s militant counsel and Rāma’s dharma-based persuasion of Kausalyā

Devanagari script

त्वया चैव मया चैव कृत्वा वैरमनुत्तमम्।काऽस्य शक्तिश्श्रियं दातुं भरतायारिशासन।।2.21.15।।

Transliteration

balam eṣa kim āśritya hetuṃ vā puruṣarṣabha |

dātum icchati kaikeyyai rājyaṃ sthitam idaṃ tava ||2.21.14||

Translation

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?

Context

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?

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Daśaratha (the king)
• Kaikeyī

FAQs

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

It questions legitimacy and rightful succession: dharma in kingship requires decisions grounded in justice and established right, not arbitrary transfer under improper influence.

What is the narrative situation?

Lakṣmaṇa challenges the rationale behind Daśaratha’s decision to redirect the kingdom’s succession under Kaikeyī’s demand.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Moral courage to question authority and defend what is perceived as rightful order—paired with intense protectiveness toward Rāma.