Shloka 2.43.18

कौशल्याविलापः — Kausalya’s Lament and the Vision of Rama’s Return

Devanagari script

साहं गौरिव सिंहेन विवत्सा वत्सला कृता।कैकेय्या पुरुषव्याघ्र बालवत्सेव गौर्बलात्।।।।

Transliteration

vivāsya rāmaṃ subhagā labdhakāmā samāhitā |

trāsayiṣyati māṃ bhūyo duṣṭāhir iva veśmani ||

Translation

Having driven Rāma into exile, she—content, her desire fulfilled and her mind composed—will frighten me again and again, like a vicious serpent within the house.

Context

O best of men! I have been forcibly separated from my affectionate son by Kaikeyi just like a cow from its calf by a lion.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Kaikeyi

FAQs

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

Dharma includes non-harm and truthful conduct within the family; when power is used to satisfy selfish desire, it creates ongoing fear and instability for the innocent.

What is the narrative situation?

Kausalya anticipates continued suffering in the palace after Rama’s exile, fearing Kaikeyi’s dominance and hostility.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Kausalya’s maternal fidelity and moral clarity—she recognizes wrongdoing and its consequences, even within the royal household.