Shloka 1.1.73

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

Devanagari script

तत्र लङ्कां समासाद्य पुरीं रावणपालिताम् ।ददर्श सीतां ध्यायन्तीमशोकवनिकां गताम् ।।।।

Transliteration

tatra laṅkāṃ samāsādya purīṃ rāvaṇapālitām |

dadarśa sītāṃ dhyāyantīm aśokavanikāṃ gatām ||

Translation

There, having reached Laṅkā, the city ruled by Rāvaṇa, he beheld Sītā—gone into the Aśoka grove—absorbed in contemplation (of Rāma).

Context

Hanuman arrived at the city of Lanka ruled by Ravana and found Sita in the Ashoka garden meditating on Rama.

Characters & Entities

• Laṅkā
• Rāvaṇa
• Sītā
• Aśokavanikā (Aśoka grove)
• Rāma (implicit object of meditation)

FAQs

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

Dharma is inner fidelity under coercion: Sītā’s steadfast focus on Rāma reflects unwavering commitment to truth and marital righteousness despite captivity.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanumān enters Laṅkā and locates Sītā in the Aśoka grove, where she remains absorbed in remembrance of Rāma.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s dhairya (fortitude) and satya-niṣṭhā (devotion to truth and rightful bond).