Shloka 2.21.29

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

Devanagari script

नास्ति शक्तिः पितुर्वाक्यं समतिक्रमितुं मम।प्रसादये त्वां शिरसा गन्तुमिच्छाम्यहं वनम्।।2.21.29।।

Transliteration

nāsti śaktiḥ pitur vākyaṃ samatikramituṃ mama | prasādaye tvāṃ śirasā gantum icchāmy ahaṃ vanam || 2.21.29 ||

Translation

I have no power to overstep my father’s command. Bowing my head, I entreat you; I wish to go to the forest.

Context

I do not have the power to transgress the orders of my father. Bowing my head I beseech you, allow me to go to the forest.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Kausalyā
• Daśaratha (father, implied)
• Vana (forest)

FAQs

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

Rāma upholds dharma as fidelity to the father’s word (satya and pitr̥-ājñā), even when it causes personal and familial suffering.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma responds to Kausalyā’s pleas by stating he cannot violate Daśaratha’s command and must proceed to the forest.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Integrity and obedience—Rāma’s unwavering commitment to truth and duty.