Shloka 4.8.16

मैत्रीप्रतिज्ञा-वैरकारणप्रश्नः (Friendship Vow and Inquiry into the Cause of Enmity)

Devanagari script

सुखोपविष्टं रामं तु प्रसन्नमुदधिं यथा।फलपुष्पसमाकीर्णे तस्मिन् गिरिवरोत्तमे4.8.15।।ततः प्रहृष्टस्सुग्रीवश्लक्ष्णं मधुरया गिरा।उवाच प्रणयाद्रामं हर्षव्याकुलिताक्षरम्4.8.16।।

Transliteration

tataḥ prahṛṣṭaḥ sugrīvaḥ ślakṣṇaṃ madhurayā girā | uvāca praṇayād rāmaṃ harṣa-vyākulitākṣaram ||

Translation

Then Sugrīva, delighted, spoke to Rāma in gentle, sweet words—his syllables tumbling in excitement, born of affection.

Context

Now Rama, seated comfortably on the best of mountains overgrown with trees full of flowers and fruits, appeared tranguil like an ocean. Extremely delighted and excited, Sugriva spoke to Rama words that got mixed up with softness and sweetness out of love:

Characters & Entities

• Sugrīva
• Rāma

FAQs

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

Truthful appeal framed with humility: Sugrīva’s affectionate, respectful speech prepares for a sincere request, aligning speech (vāc) with right intention.

What is the narrative situation?

Sugrīva begins addressing Rāma after seating arrangements are made, emotionally moved by the prospect of help and friendship.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sugrīva’s openness and relational warmth, which helps establish a dharmic alliance.