Shloka 2.53.7

पञ्चाशत्तमः सर्गः (Sarga 53) — Rāma’s Lament, Vigil for Sītā, and Lakṣmaṇa’s Consolation

Devanagari script

सा हि देवी महाराजं कैकेयी राज्यकारणात्।अपि न च्यावयेत्प्राणान् दृष्ट्वा भरतमागतम्।।।।

Transliteration

sā hi devī mahārājaṃ kaikeyī rājyakāraṇāt | api na cyāvayet prāṇān dṛṣṭvā bharatam āgatam ||

Translation

For that queen Kaikeyī—on account of the kingdom—might even not refrain from endangering the great king’s life, once she sees Bharata returned.

Context

After the arrival of Bharata, I hope queen Kaikeyi does not deprive the king of his life for the sake of the kingdom?

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa
• Kaikeyī
• Daśaratha (mahārāja)
• Bharata
• kingdom (rājya)

FAQs

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

Dharma warns against sacrificing human life for power; when rājya becomes the supreme goal, ethical boundaries can collapse.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma voices apprehension that Kaikeyī’s ambition for Bharata’s kingship could lead to further harm against Daśaratha.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Protective concern and moral vigilance—Rāma remains truthful about danger without indulging in hatred.