Shloka 2.9.23

मन्थराप्रेरणा—वरद्वय-स्मरणं च (Manthara’s Provocation and the Recalling of Two Boons)

Devanagari script

मास्मैनं प्रत्युदीक्षेथा मा चैनमभिभाषथाः।रुदन्ती चापि तं दृष्ट्वा जगत्यां शोकलालसा।।।।

Transliteration

dayitā tvaṃ sadā bhartur atra me nāsti saṃśayaḥ |

tvatkṛte sa mahārājo viśed api hutāśanam ||

Translation

You have always been dear to your husband—of this I have no doubt. For your sake, that great king would even enter the fire.

Context

Immersed in grief and in tears, neither look at him (Dasaratha) nor even talk to him when you see him.

Characters & Entities

• Kaikeyī
• Daśaratha
• fire (hutāśana)

FAQs

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

It cautions that another’s devotion creates moral responsibility: dharma requires not exploiting love to demand harmful or unjust acts.

What is the narrative situation?

Mantharā reassures Kaikeyī that Daśaratha is so devoted he will comply with extreme demands.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Daśaratha’s steadfast attachment is highlighted—though the verse frames it as leverage rather than as a virtue to be honored.