Shloka 5.20.15

रावणस्य सीताप्रलोभनम् (Ravana’s Persuasion and Coercive Courtship of Sita)

Devanagari script

यद्यत्पश्यामि ते गात्रं शीतांशुसदृशानने।तस्मिंस्तस्मिन् पृथुश्रोणि चक्षुर्मम निबध्यते।।5.20.15।।

Transliteration

yad yat paśyāmi te gātraṃ śītāṃśu-sadṛśānane |

tasmiṃs tasmin pṛthuśroṇi cakṣur mama nibadhyate || 5.20.15 ||

Translation

O moon-faced lady, O broad-hipped one—whatever limb of yours I behold, upon that very part my eyes become fastened.

Context

"O one with a face like the cool full-moon, with heavy hips. I am unable to extricate my eyes from any limb (of your body) I see.

Characters & Entities

• Sītā

FAQs

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

The verse exemplifies uncontrolled desire and objectifying gaze, both opposed to dharma’s demand for restraint and reverence toward another’s personhood and marital sanctity.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa expresses intense attraction to Sītā, describing his eyes as unable to turn away from her.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

The contrast emphasizes Sītā’s modesty and firmness; she does not reciprocate or yield despite such pressure.