Shloka 2.35.13

सुमन्त्रस्य कैकेयी-निन्दा (Sumantra’s Reproof of Kaikeyi in the Royal Assembly)

Devanagari script

नूनं सर्वे गमिष्यामो मार्गं रामनिषेवितम्।त्यक्ताया बान्धवैः सर्वैर्ब्राह्मणैः साधुभिः सदा।।2.35.12।।का प्रीती राज्यलाभेन तव देवि भविष्यति। तादृशं त्वममर्यादं कर्म कर्तुं चिकीर्षसि।।2.35.13।।

Transliteration

āścaryam iva paśyāmi yasyās te vṛttam īdṛśam | ācarantyā na vivṛtā sadyo bhavati medinī ||2.35.14||

Translation

It seems a wonder to me that the earth does not at once split open, as you undertake conduct of such a kind.

Context

All of us certainly will follow the path pursued by Rama. Abandoned by relatives, brahmins and virtuous men for all times, what pleasure will you derive by your lust for this kingdom? O Kaikeyi, why do you intend to trangress the limits of honour?

Characters & Entities

• Sumantra
• Kaikeyī
• medinī (earth)

FAQs

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

The verse expresses the idea that grave adharma is cosmic in scope—so unnatural that even the earth ‘should’ react—underscoring the sanctity of moral order.

What is the narrative situation?

In the height of his rebuke, Sumantra uses hyperbole to condemn Kaikeyī’s action as shockingly against righteousness.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sumantra’s uncompromising devotion to dharma and his readiness to speak truth to power.