Shloka 2.53.3
पञ्चाशत्तमः सर्गः (Sarga 53) — Rāma’s Lament, Vigil for Sītā, and Lakṣmaṇa’s Consolation
जागर्तव्यमतन्द्रिभ्यामद्यप्रभृति रात्रिषु।योगक्षेमौ हि सीताया वर्तेते लक्ष्मणावयोः।।।।
jāgartavyam atandribhyām adyaprabhṛti rātriṣu | yogakṣemau hi sītāyā varte te lakṣmaṇāvayoḥ ||
O Lakṣmaṇa, from this day onward we must keep watch at night without negligence; for Sītā’s safety and well-being depend upon us both.
O Lakshmana, from now on we must be sleeplessly vigilant at night. The welfare and safety of Sita depend on us both.
Dharma as responsibility: protection of the vulnerable and fulfillment of one’s duty through vigilance and disciplined conduct.
In the forest life of exile, Rāma instructs Lakṣmaṇa to remain alert at night to safeguard Sītā.
Protective duty and foresight—Rāma’s careful planning to uphold safety and righteousness.