Shloka 4.5.2

मैत्रीप्रतिष्ठा (Rama–Sugriva Alliance and Fire-Rite of Friendship)

Devanagari script

अयं रामो महाप्राज्ञ स्सम्प्राप्तो दृढविक्रमः।लक्ष्मणेन सह भ्रात्रा रामोऽयं सत्यविक्रमः4.5.2।।

Transliteration

tatas suparṇa-bahulāṁ chitvā śākhāṁ supuṣpitām || 4.5.19 ||

sālasya āstīrya sugrīvo niṣasāda sa-rāghavaḥ |

Translation

Then Sugrīva cut a well-flowering branch of a śāla tree, rich with leaves, spread it out, and sat down together with Rāghava.

Context

'This Rama of great-wisdom and valour, endowed with the power of truth has arrived here along with his brother Lakshmana.

Characters & Entities

• Sugrīva
• Rāma (Rāghava)
• Śāla tree (sāla)

FAQs

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

Dharma appears as maryādā in conduct—hospitality and respectful seating after a pact, showing that ethical relationships are maintained through small, proper actions.

What is the narrative situation?

After the alliance is sealed, Sugrīva prepares a simple seat from a flowering branch and sits with Rāma, transitioning from ritual to counsel.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Courtesy and care: Sugrīva’s gesture reflects respect for his new friend and readiness to proceed responsibly.