Shloka 5.20.8

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

Devanagari script

एकवेणी धराशय्या ध्यानं मलिनमम्बरम्।अस्थानेऽप्युपवासश्च नैतान्यौपयिकानि ते।।5.20.8।।

Transliteration

ekaveṇī dharāśayyā dhyānaṃ malinam ambaram |

asthāne 'py upavāsaś ca naitāny aupayikāni te ||5.20.8||

Translation

With your hair in a single braid, lying on the bare ground, brooding, wearing soiled garments, and fasting without proper occasion—none of this is fitting for you.

Context

"O Lady, to wear a single braid, sleep on the ground, brooding, wearing soiled clothes and fasting without proper occasion does not suit you.

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Sītā

FAQs

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

The verse contrasts two value-systems: Sītā’s austerity rooted in fidelity and truth versus Rāvaṇa’s attempt to replace dharmic resolve with comfort and compliance.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa criticizes Sītā’s ascetic signs of grief and loyalty, trying to make her abandon them.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s self-restraint and unwavering commitment to Rāma are reflected in her austere conduct.