Shloka 2.9.53

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

Devanagari script

इति प्रशस्यमाना सा कैकेयीमिदमब्रवीत्।शयानां शयने शुभ्रे वेद्यामग्निशिखामिव।।।।

Transliteration

iti praśasyamānā sā kaikēyīmidamabravīt |

śayānāṃ śayane śubhre vedyāmagniśikhāmiva ||

Translation

Being praised in this manner, Mantharā spoke these words to Kaikeyī, who was lying on a radiant white couch, resembling a flame upon a sacrificial altar.

Context

Flattered in this manner, Manthara addressed Kaikeyi who was lying on a white couch and looking like a flaming fire on the sacrificial altar:

Characters & Entities

• Manthara
• Kaikeyi

FAQs

What is the significance of comparing Kaikeyi to a flame on an altar?

The simile (Agni-shikha) highlights Kaikeyi's intense radiance and purity, but also foreshadows the destructive potential of her impending request, much like a sacrificial fire can be both purifying and all-consuming.

Who is the 'she' referred to in this verse?

The 'she' refers to Manthara, the hunchbacked maid, who is responding to the praise she just received from Kaikeyi.