Shloka 2.52.76
गङ्गातरणम्, सुमन्त्र-प्रतिनिवर्तनम्, जटाधारणम् (Crossing the Gaṅgā; Sumantra’s Return; Adoption of Ascetic Signs)
स भ्रातुः शासनं श्रुत्वा सर्वमप्रतिकूलयन्।आरोप्य मैथिलीं पूर्वमारुरोहाऽऽत्मवां स्ततः।।2.52.76।।
sa bhrātuḥ śāsanaṃ śrutvā sarvam apratikūlayan | āropya maithilīṃ pūrvam ārurōha ātmavāṃs tataḥ || 2.52.76 ||
Hearing his brother’s command and opposing it in no way, self-controlled Lakṣmaṇa first helped Maithilī (Sītā) into the boat, and then boarded himself.
Having heard his brother's command the self-controlled Lakshmana did as he was told.He first helped Sita get into the boat and thereafter boarded it himself.
Dharma is disciplined obedience and service within rightful relationships—Lakṣmaṇa fulfills Rāma’s instruction precisely and respectfully.
Lakṣmaṇa carries out Rāma’s directions during the Gaṅgā crossing by helping Sītā board first.
Humility and self-control (ātmavat)—Lakṣmaṇa acts without ego, prioritizing duty and safety.