Shloka 4.12.39

द्वादशः सर्गः — Rama’s Proof of Power, the First Duel, and the Identification Mark (Kishkindha Kanda, Sarga 12)

Devanagari script

गजपुष्पीमिमां फुल्लामुत्पाट्य शुभलक्षणाम्।कुरु लक्ष्मण कण्ठेऽस्य सुग्रीवस्य महात्मनः।।4.12.39।।

Transliteration

gajapuṣpīm imāṃ phullām utpāṭya śubhalakṣaṇām |

kuru lakṣmaṇa kaṇṭhe ’sya sugrīvasya mahātmanaḥ ||

Translation

O Lakṣmaṇa, pluck this blossoming gajapuṣpī creeper of auspicious marks and place it upon the neck of the great-souled Sugrīva.

Context

'O Lakshmana! this Gajapushpi in bloom is auspicious. Pluck and fasten it on great Sugriva's neck.'

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Lakshmana
• Sugriva
• Gajapuṣpī (creeper/flowering plant)

FAQs

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

Dharma is expressed as safeguarding a just alliance through practical means—creating a clear identifier so that righteous action does not accidentally become wrongful harm.

What is the narrative situation?

To help Rāma recognize Sugrīva during the duel with Vāli, Rāma instructs Lakṣmaṇa to place a gajapuṣpī garland/creeper on Sugrīva.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Lakṣmaṇa’s sevā (devoted service) and prompt obedience in supporting Rāma’s dharmic plan.