Shloka 5.20.29

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

Devanagari script

चारुस्मिते चारुदति चारुनेत्रे विलासिनि।।5.20.29।।मनो हरसि मे भीरु सुपर्णः पन्नगं यथा।

Transliteration

kāmaye tvāṃ viśālākṣi bahumanyasva māṃ priye | sarvāṅgaguṇasampanne sarvalokamanohare || 5.20.3 ||

Translation

O large-eyed one, dear to me—complete in beauty in every limb and captivating to all the worlds—I desire you. Show me favor; accept my suit.

Context

"O lovely, timid lady! your smile, your teeth and your eyes are bewitching. Just as Garuda snatches away a serpent, you ravish my mind by your beauty.

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Sītā

FAQs

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

Dharma is highlighted by contrast: Rāvaṇa’s desire-driven speech models adharma—treating another’s spouse as an object of gratification rather than honoring marital fidelity and consent.

What is the narrative situation?

In Laṅkā’s Aśoka grove, Rāvaṇa confronts the captive Sītā and begins to entice her with flattering words and a proposal.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s virtue is implied: steadfast loyalty (pativratā-dharma) and truthfulness in refusing an unrighteous offer.