Shloka 4.1.105

पम्पा-तीर-वर्णनम् / Rama’s Lament at Pampa and the Approach to Rishyamuka

Devanagari script

श्यामा पद्मपलाशाक्षी प्रिया विरहिता मया।कथं धारयति प्राणान्विवशा जनकात्मजा।।।।

Transliteration

śyāmā padmapalāśākṣī priyā virahitā mayā | kathaṃ dhārayati prāṇān vivaśā janakātmajā ||

Translation

How can Janaka’s daughter—darkly radiant, with eyes like lotus petals, so dear to me—bereft of me and helpless in sorrow, possibly sustain her life-breath?

Context

'How can Janaka's daughter with eyes like lotus petals, so young and loving, sustain her life? Away from me, she must be feeling quite dejected.

Characters & Entities

• Sita (Janakatmaja/Vaidehi)
• Janaka

FAQs

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

The verse highlights marital fidelity and responsibility: Rama’s dharma is not mere kingship but steadfast duty toward Sita; his grief underscores the ethical seriousness of separation and protection owed to one’s spouse.

What is the narrative situation?

After Sita’s abduction, Rama laments to Lakshmana, imagining Sita’s suffering and questioning how she can endure without him.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rama’s compassion and unwavering devotion (anurāga) to Sita, expressed as concern for her very survival.