Shloka 4.40.19

पूर्वदिशि सीतामार्गण-नियोगः (Deployment to the Eastern Quarter for the Search of Sita)

Devanagari script

तत्र सीतां च वैदेहीं निलयं रावणस्य च।।4.40.19।।मार्गध्वं गिरिशृङ्गेषु वनेषु च नदीषु च।

Transliteration

tatra sītāṃ ca vaidehīṃ nilayaṃ rāvaṇasya ca || 4.40.19 ||

mārgadhvaṃ giri-śṛṅgeṣu vaneṣu ca nadīṣu ca |

Translation

There, seek Sītā—Vaidehī—and also Rāvaṇa’s abode; search upon mountain peaks, in forests, and along the rivers.

Context

'Search for Sita in the abode of Ravana, on mountain peaks and river banks and in forests.

Characters & Entities

• Sugrīva
• Sītā (Vaidehī)
• Rāvaṇa
• Mountains
• Forests
• Rivers

FAQs

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

Dharma is steadfast effort in a just mission: the search must be thorough and truthful, covering all likely terrains so that action rests on verified discovery rather than rumor.

What is the narrative situation?

Sugrīva gives concrete search instructions to the troop heading east, specifying where to look for Sītā and for clues to Rāvaṇa’s residence.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Diligence and discipline—systematic searching reflects commitment to truth (Satya) and duty.