Shloka 2.37.16

अयोध्याकाण्डे सर्गः ३७ — चीरधारणं, सीतासंकल्पः, वसिष्ठोपदेशः (Bark-Robe Episode and Vasistha’s Admonition)

Devanagari script

ऊचुश्च परमायस्ता रामं ज्वलिततेजसम्।वत्स नैवं नियुक्तेयं वनवासे मनस्विनी।।2.37.16।।

Transliteration

rāmaṁ prekṣya tu sītāyā badhnantaṁ cīram uttamam | antaḥpuragatā nāryo mumucur vāri netrajam || 2.37.15 ||

Translation

When the women of the inner chambers saw Rama fastening upon Sita the finest bark garment, tears born of their eyes fell down.

Context

Profoundly distressed, they said to Rama glowing with burning lustre O dear, no one has ordered this high-minded Sita to dwell in the forest.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Sita
• women of the inner apartments (antaḥpura-nāryaḥ)
• bark garment (cīra)

FAQs

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

Dharma is not emotionless; righteous action can coexist with human grief. The women’s tears acknowledge the cost of dharma when it demands separation and austerity.

What is the narrative situation?

Palace women witness Sita being dressed for exile and are overcome with sorrow.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Anukampā (tender empathy) of the palace women toward Sita and Rama.