Shloka 2.7.33

मन्थराप्रवेशः — Manthara Observes Ayodhya and Incites Kaikeyi

Devanagari script

दत्वा त्वाभरणं तस्यै कुब्जायै प्रमदोत्तमा।कैकेयी मन्थरां दृष्ट्वा पुनरेवाब्रवीदिदम्।।।।

Transliteration

datvā tv ābharaṇaṃ tasyai kubjāyai pramadottamā |

kaikeyī mantharāṃ dṛṣṭvā punar evābravīd idam || 2.7.33 ||

Translation

Having given the ornament to the hunchback, Kaikeyī—the foremost among women—looked at Mantharā and spoke again as follows.

Context

Kaikeyi, the best among the beauties, having given the ornament to Manthara, the hunchback, looked at her and said these words again:

Characters & Entities

• Kaikeyī
• Mantharā

FAQs

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

Dharma involves careful speech and counsel; this verse marks a transition into consequential dialogue where words will shape fate, urging attentiveness to truth and motive.

What is the narrative situation?

After rewarding Mantharā, Kaikeyī seeks further clarification or instruction, continuing the exchange.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Attentiveness and engagement in counsel—though the moral quality depends on what counsel is pursued and why.