Shloka 2.52.49

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

Devanagari script

यदि मे याचमानस्य त्यागमेव करिष्यसि।सरथोऽग्निं प्रवेक्ष्यामि त्यक्तमात्र इह त्वया।।2.52.49।।

Transliteration

yadi me yācamānasya tyāgam eva kariṣyasi | sa-ratho ’gniṃ pravekṣyāmi tyakta-mātra iha tvayā ||

Translation

If, even as I beg you, you choose only to cast me off, then the moment you abandon me here, I will enter the fire together with my chariot.

Context

If you forsake me in spite of my request I shall immediately enter fire along with my chariot.

Characters & Entities

• Sumantra
• Rāma
• ratha (chariot)
• agni (fire)

FAQs

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

It dramatizes the extremity of loyalty; ethically, it also invites reflection on dharma as steadiness without self-destruction—showing how grief can push devotion into dangerous vows.

What is the narrative situation?

Sumantra threatens self-immolation if Rāma refuses to let him accompany the exile.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Unwavering attachment and loyalty, though expressed in a despairing, ethically fraught form.