Shloka 4.8.20

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

Devanagari script

एवमुक्तस्तु तेजस्वी धर्मज्ञो धर्मवत्सलः।प्रत्युवाच स काकुत्स्थस्सुग्रीवं प्रहसन्निव।।

Transliteration

evam uktas tu tejasvī dharmajño dharmavatsalaḥ | pratyuvāca sa kākutsthaḥ sugrīvaṃ prahasann iva ||

Translation

Thus addressed, the radiant Rāma—knower and lover of dharma—replied to Sugrīva with a gentle, reassuring smile.

Context

Thus spoken to, the glorious Rama, lover of righteousness who knew his duty, replied to Sugriva with a smile on his face:

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Sugrīva
• Kākutstha

FAQs

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

Dharma is shown as compassionate steadiness: Rāma responds as one devoted to righteousness, offering calm reassurance rather than harshness.

What is the narrative situation?

After Sugrīva speaks, Rāma begins his reply, signaling confidence and goodwill as the alliance is being affirmed.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s dharma-centered conduct—self-control, kindness, and reliability in speech.