Shloka 1.1.23

श्रीमद्रामायणकथासङ्क्षेपः / The Ramayana in Synopsis (Narada’s Summary to Valmiki)

Devanagari script

स सत्यवचनाद्राजा धर्मपाशेन संयत: ।विवासयामास सुतं रामं दशरथ: प्रियम् ।।।।

Transliteration

taṃ vrajantaṃ priyo bhrātā lakṣmaṇo ’nujagāma ha | snehād vinayasampannaḥ sumitrānandavardhanaḥ | bhrātaraṃ dayito bhrātuḥ saubhrātram anudarśayan ||

Translation

As he departed, his dear brother Lakṣmaṇa followed him—moved by affection, endowed with humility, increasing Sumitrā’s joy—showing his beloved brother the fullness of fraternal devotion.

Context

Dasaratha, true to his word and restrained by the bond of duty, sent his beloved son Rama to the forest.

Characters & Entities

• Lakṣmaṇa
• Rāma
• Sumitrā
• Vana (forest)

FAQs

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

Dharma within family: devoted service and loyal companionship in hardship, expressed as fraternal responsibility (saubhrātra).

What is the narrative situation?

As Rāma leaves for exile, Lakṣmaṇa chooses to accompany him, motivated by love and duty.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Lakṣmaṇa’s humility (vinaya) and unwavering brotherly devotion (saubhrātra).