Shloka 2.21.20
अयोध्याकाण्डे एकविंशः सर्गः — Lakṣmaṇa’s militant counsel and Rāma’s dharma-based persuasion of Kausalyā
भ्रातुस्ते वदतः पुत्र लक्ष्मणस्य श्रुतं त्वया।यदत्रानन्तरं कार्यं कुरुष्व यदि रोचते।।2.21.20।।
bhrātus te vadataḥ putra lakṣmaṇasya śrutaṃ tvayā |
yad atrānantaraṃ kāryaṃ kuruṣva yadi rocate ||2.21.20||
My son, you have heard what your brother Lakṣmaṇa has said. If it pleases you, then do next whatever you judge should be done in this matter.
O my son! you have heard what your brother Lakshmana said and if it pleases you, do later what is to be done.
It underscores deliberation and agency: after hearing counsel, one must choose the next action responsibly, aligning with dharma rather than impulse.
Kauśalyā turns to Rāma after Lakṣmaṇa’s speech, acknowledging he has heard it and inviting him to decide the appropriate next step.
Kauśalyā’s restraint and practical wisdom—she channels grief into a measured appeal for right action.