Shloka 2.36.1

अयोध्याकाण्डे षट्त्रिंशः सर्गः — Daśaratha’s orders for Rama’s escort; Kaikeyi’s fear; the Asamañjasa precedent

Devanagari script

ततस्सुमन्त्रमैक्ष्वाकः पीडितोऽत्र प्रतिज्ञया।सबाष्पमतिनिश्श्वश्य जगादेदं पुनः पुनः।।।।

Transliteration

tataḥ sumantram aikṣvākaḥ pīḍito 'tra pratijñayā | sabāṣpam atiniśśvasya jagādedaṃ punaḥ punaḥ || 2.36.1 ||

Translation

Then Daśaratha, scion of the Ikṣvākus—tormented in this matter by his pledge—sighed deeply again and again and, with tears, spoke these words to Sumantra.

Context

Afflicted on account of the promise he had made, Dasaratha, descendant of the Ikshvakus heaved deep sighs again and again and with his eyes full of tears uttered these words to Sumantra:

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Ikṣvāku (dynasty)
• Sumantra

FAQs

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

Satya-dharma: the king is crushed by the binding force of a pledged word, showing how truthfulness can demand painful sacrifice.

What is the narrative situation?

After being bound by Kaikeyī’s boons, Daśaratha turns to his minister-charioteer Sumantra, overwhelmed by the consequences of his promise.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Daśaratha’s commitment to truth/pledge-keeping, even when it conflicts with personal desire and causes intense suffering.