Shloka 2.66.8

अयोध्यायां शोकविलापः — Lamentation in Ayodhya after Daśaratha’s death

Devanagari script

स मामनाथां विधवां नाद्य जानाति धार्मिकः।रामः कमलपत्राक्षः जीवन्नाशमितो गतः।।।।

Transliteration

sa mām anāthāṁ vidhavāṁ nādya jānāti dhārmikaḥ | rāmaḥ kamalapatrākṣaḥ jīvann āśam ito gataḥ ||

Translation

That righteous Rāma, lotus-petaled in his eyes, does not know today that I am left without refuge, a widow; though he still lives, for me he has gone as one lost beyond hope.

Context

That virtuous Rama of lotus-petal-eyes has left this place for good, and does not know that I am without a protector, being a widow now.

Characters & Entities

• Rama

FAQs

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

Dharma is shown as relational: protection and care bind family roles. Kauśalyā’s lament highlights the ethical cost of separation even when Rāma himself remains righteous.

What is the narrative situation?

Kauśalyā, after Daśaratha’s death and Rāma’s departure, feels bereft and describes herself as effectively widowed and unprotected.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s dharmic nature is affirmed even amid tragedy; Kauśalyā’s grief underscores how righteousness can still entail painful consequences.