Shloka 2.52.19

गङ्गातरणम्, सुमन्त्र-प्रतिनिवर्तनम्, जटाधारणम् (Crossing the Gaṅgā; Sumantra’s Return; Adoption of Ascetic Signs)

Devanagari script

वयं खलु हता राम ये त्वयाप्युपवञ्चिताः।कैकेय्या वशमेष्यामः पापाया दुःखभागिनः।।2.52.19।।

Transliteration

vayaṃ khalu hatā rāma ye tvayāpy upavañcitāḥ |

kaikeyyā vaśam eṣyāmaḥ pāpāyā duḥkhabhāginaḥ ||

Translation

Truly we are ruined, O Rama—bereft even of you; we shall fall under the sway of that sinful Kaikeyī, becoming heirs to sorrow.

Context

Deprived of you, O Rama! we will come under the control of that sinful Kaikeyi. We will suffer and die.

Characters & Entities

• Sumantra
• Rama
• Kaikeyi

FAQs

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

The verse contrasts dharmic leadership with adharma: when the righteous are removed, society fears domination by selfish power, leading to collective suffering.

What is the narrative situation?

Sumantra expresses despair that, with Rama exiled, the remaining household will be subject to Kaikeyī’s will.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rama’s protective righteousness is implied: his presence is seen as a moral safeguard for the kingdom and its people.