Shloka 2.9.61

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

Devanagari script

प्रपत्स्यते राज्यमिदं हि राघवोयदि ध्रुवं त्वं ससुता च तप्स्यसे।अतो हि कल्याणि यतस्व तत्तथायथा सुतस्ते भरतोऽभिषेक्ष्यते।।।।

Transliteration

prapatsyate rājyam idaṃ hi rāghavo yadi dhruvaṃ tvaṃ sasutā ca tapsyase | ato hi kalyāṇi yatasva tat tathā yathā sutas te bharato 'bhiṣekṣyate ||

Translation

If Rāghava truly comes to possess this kingdom, then surely you and your son will suffer. Therefore, O auspicious lady, strive to act so that your son Bharata is consecrated.

Context

It is true that if Rama secures this kingdom, you along with your son are bound to suffer. O auspicious one, hence act in a way your son Bharata will be installed.

Characters & Entities

• Mantharā
• Kaikeyī
• Rāghava/Rāma
• Bharata
• Kingdom of Ayodhyā (implied)

FAQs

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

It shows how fear can be used to justify unrighteous acts; dharma demands fairness and truth, not decisions driven by insecurity and partisan advantage.

What is the narrative situation?

Mantharā predicts Kaikeyī’s future suffering under Rāma’s rule and urges immediate steps to ensure Bharata’s coronation.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Strategic foresight is invoked, but the dominant trait displayed is manipulative persuasion rather than a dharmic virtue.