Shloka 2.30.1

सीताया वनानुगमननिश्चयः — Sita’s Resolve to Accompany Rama to the Forest

Devanagari script

सान्त्व्यमाना तु रामेण मैथिली जनकात्मजा।वनवासनिमित्ताय भर्तारमिदमब्रवीत्।।2.30.1।।

Transliteration

sa mām anādāya vanaṁ na tvaṁ prasthātum arhasi |

tapo vā yadi vā’raṇyaṁ svargo vā syāt saha me tvayā ||

Translation

You must not set out for the forest without taking me. Whether it is for austerity, for the wilderness, or even for heaven—I want it to be together with you.

Context

In response to Rama's consolation with regard to her stay in the forest, the daughter of Janaka, Maithili (Sita) said:

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Rāma
• Vana/Araṇya (forest)
• Tapaḥ (austerity)
• Svarga (heaven)

FAQs

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

Shared dharma in marriage: Sītā asserts that her rightful duty and truth is to accompany her husband in every legitimate path—hardship, discipline, or reward.

What is the narrative situation?

Sītā responds to Rama’s attempt to dissuade her from exile, insisting on going with him.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s steadfast commitment (niścaya) and courage—she reframes exile as a shared moral journey.