Shloka 2.57.20

सप्तपञ्चाशः सर्गः — Sumantra’s Return to Ayodhya and the Palace’s Lament

Devanagari script

ततो दशरथस्त्रीणां प्रासादेभ्य स्तत स्ततः।रामशोकाभितप्तानां मन्दं शुश्राव जल्पितम्।।।।

Transliteration

tato daśarathastrīṇāṃ prāsādebhyaḥ tataḥ tataḥ |

rāmaśokābhitaptānāṃ mandaṃ śuśrāva jalpitam ||

Translation

Then, from various quarters of the palace of Daśaratha’s wives, he heard a faint murmuring—voices scorched by grief for Rāma.

Context

From different spots in the palace, Sumantra heard the sobs and whispers of Dasaratha's wives who were tormented with the sorrow of Rama's exile.

Characters & Entities

• Sumantra (implied as hearer)
• Daśaratha
• wives of Daśaratha
• Rāma
• palace chambers

FAQs

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

Dharma is shown through truthful acknowledgment of suffering: the palace does not hide grief, indicating that satya includes facing the human cost of righteous vows and decisions.

What is the narrative situation?

As Sumantra moves within the palace, he hears the subdued lamentations of the queens grieving over Rāma’s exile.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Compassionate sensitivity: Sumantra’s attention to their quiet speech reflects empathy within service.