Shloka 4.41.45

दक्षिणदिशि सीतान्वेषण-आदेशः (Commissioning the Southern Search for Sītā)

Devanagari script

अन्ते पृथिव्या दुर्धर्षास्तत्र स्वर्गजितः स्थिताः।ततः परं न वस्सेव्यः पितृलोक स्सुदारुणः।।।।

Transliteration

rājadhānī yamasyaiṣā kaṣṭena tamasā vṛtā |

ētāvad eva yuṣmābhir vīrā vānarapuṅgavāḥ |

śakyaṃ vicetuṃ gantuṃ vā nāto gatimatāṃ gatiḥ ||

Translation

This is Yama’s capital, shrouded in oppressive darkness. Only up to this point, heroic leaders among the Vānaras, is it possible for you to proceed or to search; beyond this there is no path even for those who move swiftly.

Context

'The divine people who have earned a place in heaven stay there at the end of their life on earth. Beyond, lies the dreadful world of deceased ancestors. It is not possible for you to enter that place.

Characters & Entities

• Yama
• Yama’s capital (rājadhānī)
• Darkness (tamas)

FAQs

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

Dharma is courageous action governed by prudence: bravery does not mean violating inviolate limits; righteous effort stays within what is possible and permitted.

What is the narrative situation?

Sugriva warns the southern party that their search can extend only up to Yama’s dark city; beyond it the route becomes inaccessible.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Balanced heroism: valor combined with restraint and respect for cosmic order.