पम्पा-तीर-वर्णनम् / Rama’s Lament at Pampa and the Approach to Rishyamuka
तया विहीनः कृपणः कथं लक्ष्मण धारये।या मामनुगता राज्याद्भ्रष्टं विगतचेतसम्।।।।
tayā vihīnaḥ kṛpaṇaḥ kathaṃ lakṣmaṇa dhāraye | yā māmanugatā rājyād bhraṣṭaṃ vigatacetasam ||
Bereft of her, wretched and helpless—how can I endure, O Lakshmana? She followed me when I was cast out from my kingdom, my spirit fallen and my mind cast down.
'She followed me, O Lakshmana! as I was deposed from the kingdom and distraught. Now helpless, how can I live without her?
Dharma includes relational duty and gratitude: Rama remembers Sita’s solidarity during his loss of power, implying an ethical bond that cannot be treated lightly.
Rama speaks to Lakshmana, overwhelmed by Sita’s absence and recalling her unwavering companionship during exile.
Sita’s loyalty and Rama’s integrity in valuing that loyalty, even when he is powerless.