Shloka 4.1.66

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

Devanagari script

पद्मपत्रविशालाक्षीं सततं पङ्कजप्रियाम्।अपश्यतो मे वैदेहीं जीवितं नाभिरोचते।।।।

Transliteration

padmapatraviśālākṣīṃ satataṃ paṅkajapriyām | apaśyato me vaidehīṃ jīvitaṃ nābhirocate ||

Translation

When I cannot see Vaidehī—whose eyes are wide like lotus petals, who ever loved the lotus—life itself no longer pleases me.

Context

'Unable to see my beloved with eyes large like totus petals and an ardent lover of lotuses, I have no desire to live.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa
• Sītā (Vaidehī)

FAQs

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

The verse reflects dharma of marital fidelity and emotional truth (satya): Rāma does not mask his pain, and his unwavering devotion to Sītā is presented as a righteous constancy.

What is the narrative situation?

Amid Pampā’s beauty, Rāma’s mind turns inward; the scenery triggers remembrance of Sītā and intensifies his sorrow during the search.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Single-hearted loyalty (ekapatnī-vrata in spirit): Rāma’s exclusive devotion to Sītā and the sincerity of his attachment.