Shloka 2.73.14

भरतस्य कैकेय्याः प्रति धिक्कारः — Bharata’s Rebuke of Kaikeyi and Affirmation of Ikshvaku Royal Dharma

Devanagari script

अहं हि पुरुषव्याघ्रावपश्यन्रामलक्ष्मणौ।केन शक्तिप्रभावेन राज्यं रक्षितुमुत्सहे।।।।

Transliteration

ahaṃ hi puruṣa-vyāghrāv apaśyan rāma-lakṣmaṇau | kena śakti-prabhāvena rājyaṃ rakṣitum utsahe || 2.73.14 ||

Translation

Without seeing Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa—those tigers among men—by what power or might could I presume to protect this kingdom?

Context

When Rama and Lakshmana, the best of men stay away from me, by virtue of what mighty power am I competent to protect this kingdom?

Characters & Entities

• Bharata
• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa
• kingdom (rājya)

FAQs

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

Legitimate rule depends on dharmic capability and rightful support; Bharata refuses to treat kingship as entitlement and measures it against responsibility.

What is the narrative situation?

Bharata laments that with Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa absent, he lacks the strength to safeguard the realm.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Humility and realism in governance—Bharata acknowledges merit and competence rather than clinging to power.