Shloka 2.51.25

अयोध्याकाण्डे एकपञ्चाशः सर्गः — Guha’s Vigil and Lakṣmaṇa’s Lament (Night on the riverbank)

Devanagari script

अपि सत्यप्रतिज्ञेन सार्धं कुशलिना वयम्।निवृत्ते वनवासेऽस्मिन्नयोध्यां प्रविशेमहि।।।।

Transliteration

ucito 'yaṁ janaḥ sarvaḥ kleśānāṁ tvaṁ sukhocitaḥ |

guptyarthaṁ jāgariṣyāmaḥ kākutsthasya vayaṁ niśām ||

Translation

All these people are accustomed to hardship, while you are accustomed to comfort. Therefore, for the protection of Kakutstha Rama, we will keep watch throughout the night.

Context

Will we ever be able, after completion of the exile, to enter the city of Ayodhya along with Rama who is true to his promise?

Characters & Entities

• Guha
• Lakshmana
• Rama (Kakutstha)

FAQs

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

Dharma here is protective service (rakṣā/gupti) offered to a righteous guest and friend—taking responsibility for another’s safety, even at personal cost (staying awake all night).

What is the narrative situation?

Rama is resting with Sita during the forest-exile journey; Guha, as host and ally, proposes that his people keep night watch to guard Rama.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Guha’s loyalty and selfless hospitality—he prioritizes Rama’s security over comfort.