Shloka 2.9.42

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

Devanagari script

परिपूर्णं तु जघनं सुपीनौ च पयोधरौ।।।।विमलेन्दुसमं वक्त्रमहोराजसि मन्थरे।

Transliteration

paripūrṇaṁ tu jaghanaṁ supīnau ca payodharau |

vimalendu-samaṁ vaktram aho rājasi manthare ||

Translation

Your hips are full, your breasts round and firm; your face is like the spotless moon—how radiant you are, O Mantharā!

Context

You have full hips, round and plump breasts. Your countenance equals the bright moon. How passionate you look, Manthara!

Characters & Entities

• Kaikeyī
• Mantharā

FAQs

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

The verse serves as a cautionary example: ethical decline can be accompanied by indulgent praise and loss of principled focus, moving away from satya-centered judgment.

What is the narrative situation?

Kaikeyī, pleased with Mantharā’s counsel, continues to flatter her with ornate compliments.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

The implied virtue is integrity of mind: keeping one’s priorities aligned with dharma rather than emotional gratification.