Shloka 2.21.44

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

Devanagari script

तमेवमुत्त्वा सौहार्दाद्भ्रातरं लक्ष्मणाग्रजः।उवाच भूयः कौसल्यां प्राञ्जलिश्शिरसानतः।।2.21.44।।

Transliteration

tam evam uktvā sauhārdād bhrātaraṃ lakṣmaṇāgrajaḥ |

uvāca bhūyaḥ kausalyāṃ prāñjaliḥ śirasā nataḥ ||2.21.44||

Translation

Having thus spoken to his brother out of affection, Rāma—the elder brother of Lakṣmaṇa—once again addressed Kausalyā, with folded hands and his head bowed.

Context

Speaking affectionately to his brother Lakshmana, Rama with folded hands and head bowed again addressed Kausalya:

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa
• Kausalyā

FAQs

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

Dharma is expressed as maryādā (propriety): humility, respectful speech, and reverence toward one’s mother even amid personal crisis.

What is the narrative situation?

After calming Lakṣmaṇa, Rāma turns back to Kausalyā and prepares to seek her consent and blessings for the forest exile.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s courtesy and filial devotion—his respectful bodily posture (folded hands, bowed head) embodies inner discipline.