Shloka 2.44.5

सुमित्रोपदेशः — Sumitra’s Consolation to Kausalya

Devanagari script

वर्तते चोत्तमां वृत्तिं लक्ष्मणोऽस्मिन् सदानघः।दयावान् सर्वभूतेषु लाभस्तस्य महात्मनः।।।।

Transliteration

vartate cottamāṁ vṛttiṁ lakṣmaṇo ’smin sadānaghaḥ | dayāvān sarvabhūteṣu lābhas tasya mahātmanaḥ ||

Translation

In this matter, blameless Lakṣmaṇa has ever upheld the highest conduct; compassionate toward all beings, he is a true gain to that great-souled one, Rāma.

Context

Blameless Lakshmana, compassionate to all beings, has acted most nobly in this matter for the benefit of his great soul.

Characters & Entities

• Lakṣmaṇa
• Rāma (implied by ‘tasya mahātmanaḥ’ and ‘asmin’ context)

FAQs

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

Sevā-dharma: righteous service to a noble cause—supporting the virtuous without selfish motive—becomes a moral ‘gain’ for all involved.

What is the narrative situation?

The narrative highlights Lakṣmaṇa’s exemplary behavior and compassion while acting in matters connected to Rāma.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Lakṣmaṇa’s blameless loyalty and compassion—steadfast, principled support grounded in dharma.