Shloka 2.26.26

अयोध्याकाण्डे षड्विंशः सर्गः — Rama’s Departure and Sita’s Questions; Disclosure of Exile and Counsel on Courtly Conduct

Devanagari script

नापि त्वं तेन भर्तव्या विशेषेण कदाचन।अनुकूलतया शक्यं समीपे त्वस्य वर्तितुम्।।।।

Transliteration

nāpi tvaṃ tena bhartavyā viśeṣeṇa kadācana |

anukūlatayā śakyaṃ samīpe tv asya vartitum ||

Translation

Nor should you ever expect special support from him; only by being agreeable can you manage to remain in his vicinity.

Context

Never expect special treatment from Bharata. You can (continue to) stay with him (here) by conducting yourself in a favourable manner.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Sītā
• Bharata (implied by context)

FAQs

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

Adaptation without entitlement: dharma in a household/political setting includes realistic expectations and courteous conduct to maintain peace.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma instructs Sītā how to live safely and respectfully in Ayodhyā under Bharata’s authority during his exile.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Prudence and self-restraint—acting in ways that reduce friction rather than asserting privilege.