Shloka 2.70.10

भरतस्य दूतसमागमः तथा केकयराजनः अनुज्ञा (Bharata Meets the Messengers; Kekaya King Grants Leave)

Devanagari script

आत्मकामा सदा चण्डी क्रोधना प्राज्ञमानिनी।अरोगा चापि मे माता कैकेयी किमुवाच ह।।2.70.10।।

Transliteration

ātmakāmā sadā caṇḍī krodhanā prājñamāninī |

arogā cāpi me mātā kaikeyī kim uvāca ha || 2.70.10 ||

Translation

And what did my mother Kaikeyī say—ever self-willed, harsh-tempered, quick to anger, and proud of her own cleverness? Is she, at least, free from illness?

Context

And what about my mother Kaikeyi, ever intent on her own well-being, wrathful, irascible and proud of her intelligence? Is she maintaining sound health?

Characters & Entities

• Bharata
• Kaikeyī

FAQs

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

Even when aware of a parent’s difficult traits, one maintains basic filial concern and truth-seeking: Bharata asks after his mother’s health and words without abandoning propriety.

What is the narrative situation?

Bharata, about to hear the messengers’ news, inquires particularly about his mother Kaikeyī—both her health and what she has said.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Filial responsibility coupled with realism: Bharata neither idealizes nor insults, but acknowledges her nature while still expressing due concern.