Shloka 2.7.14

मन्थराप्रवेशः — Manthara Observes Ayodhya and Incites Kaikeyi

Devanagari script

उत्तिष्ठ मूढे किं शेषे भयं त्वामभिवर्तते।उपप्लुतामौघेन किमात्मानं न बुध्यसे।।।।

Transliteration

sā dahyamānā kopeṇa mantharā pāpadarśinī | śayānām etya kaikeyīm idaṃ vacanam abravīt ||

Translation

Mantharā, evil-minded and burning with rage, went to Kaikeyī as she lay resting and spoke these words.

Context

O senseless one, why are you lying down? Get up! A great fear is gripping you. Why don't you realise that you are floating in a sea of perils.

Characters & Entities

• Mantharā
• Kaikeyī

FAQs

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

Dharma is threatened by malicious counsel: the verse introduces the moment where unethical speech and intent begin steering a queen away from truth and righteousness.

What is the narrative situation?

Mantharā, enraged by the planned consecration, goes directly to Kaikeyī to provoke her.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

The opposite of virtue—malevolence and anger—showing how inner vice can drive destructive action.