Shloka 2.60.2

षष्टितमः सर्गः — Kausalyā’s Lament and Sumantra’s Consolation (Sītā’s Fearless Forest-Life)

Devanagari script

नय मां यत्र काकुत्स्थस्सीता यत्र च लक्ष्मणः।तान्विना क्षणमप्यत्र जीवितुं नोत्सहेह्यहम्।।।।

Transliteration

nivartaya rathaṃ śīghraṃ daṇḍakān naya mām api |

atha tān nānugacchāmi gamiṣyāmi yamakṣayam ||

Translation

Turn the chariot back at once, and take me too to the Dandaka forest. If I do not follow after them, then I shall go to Yama’s abode—death.

Context

Take me where Rama, Sita and Lakshmana are. I do not wish to live even for a moment without them.

Characters & Entities

• Dandaka forest (Daṇḍaka)
• Yama

FAQs

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

It underscores the sincerity of commitment: Kausalya’s words show that for her, life’s meaning is inseparable from righteous kinship. The verse also reflects the human cost borne by families when dharma-driven vows (like exile) are upheld.

What is the narrative situation?

Kausalya urges Sumantra to reverse the chariot and bring her to the forest, expressing that failing to follow Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana would be tantamount to death for her.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Intensity of devotion and truthfulness of emotion—her grief becomes a firm, uncompromising resolve.