Shloka 2.55.12
चित्रकूटमार्गोपदेशः — Instructions for the Chitrakuta Route and the Yamuna Crossing
इति तौ पुरुषव्याघ्रौ मन्त्रयित्वा मनस्विनौ।सीतामेवाग्रतः कृत्वा कालिन्दीं जग्मतुर्नदीम्।।।।
iti tau puruṣa-vyāghrau mantrayitvā manasvinau |
sītām evāgrataḥ kṛtvā kālindīṃ jagmatur nadīm ||
Thus the two high-minded ‘tigers among men’ conferred together, and with Sītā placed in front, they went on toward the river Kālindī (Yamunā).
Thus talking with one another, the two noble-minded tigers (best) among men advanced towards river Kalindi (Yamuna) with Sita walking in front.
Dharma appears as protective responsibility: the brothers coordinate their actions and ensure Sītā’s safety and dignity while traveling.
Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa discuss their next steps and proceed toward the Yamunā with Sītā leading.
Prudent leadership and guardianship—planning together and prioritizing Sītā’s well-being.