Shloka 2.25.2

कौशल्याया मङ्गलविधानम् — Kausalya’s Benedictions and Protective Rites for Rama

Devanagari script

न शक्यसे वारयितुं गच्छेदानीं रघूत्तम।शीघ्रं च विनिवर्तस्व वर्तस्व च सतां क्रमे।।2.25.2।।

Transliteration

na śakyase vārayituṃ gacchedānīṃ raghūttama | śīghraṃ ca vinivartasva vartasva ca satāṃ krame || 2.25.2 ||

Translation

I am not able to dissuade you, O best of the Raghus, from setting out. Go now—but return swiftly, and conduct yourself in the path followed by the virtuous.

Context

I am unable to dissuade you, O the best among the descendants of Raghus, from going into the forest. Go now and return soon. Follow in the footsteps of the virtuous.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Raghu lineage (Raghūttama)
• sat (the virtuous/good people)

FAQs

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

Even in hardship, one should follow sat-dharma—right conduct modeled by the virtuous—rather than acting from impulse or fear.

What is the narrative situation?

Rama is preparing to depart for forest-exile; Kausalya, unable to stop him, gives guidance and a mother’s urgent blessing to return safely.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rama’s steadfast commitment to duty and disciplined conduct (maryādā), even when it causes personal pain to loved ones.