Shloka 2.7.17
मन्थराप्रवेशः — Manthara Observes Ayodhya and Incites Kaikeyi
कैकेयी त्वब्रवीत्कुब्जां कच्चित्क्षेमं नु मन्थरे।विषण्णवदनां हि त्वां लक्षये भृशदुःखिताम्।।।।
evam uktā tu kaikeyī ruṣṭayā paruṣaṃ vacaḥ | kubjayā pāpadarśinyā viṣādam agamat param ||
Thus addressed with harsh words by the enraged hunchback of evil intent, Kaikeyī sank into profound dejection.
Kaikeyi said to the hunchback, O Manthara! isn't all well with you? I can mark it from your dejected face how greatly distressed you feel, indeed!.
It highlights the dharmic importance of right speech: cruel or manipulative words can unseat another’s mental balance, leading them away from righteous decision-making.
Mantharā’s verbal attack successfully unsettles Kaikeyī, plunging her into anxiety and sorrow.
The need for emotional steadiness and discernment; Kaikeyī’s vulnerability to despair becomes the opening for further manipulation.