Shloka 5.20.9

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

Devanagari script

विचित्राणि च माल्यानि चन्दनान्यगरूणि च।विविधानि च वासांसि दिव्यान्याभरणानि च।।5.20.9।।महार्हाणि च पानानि शयनान्यासनानि च।गीतं नृत्तं च वाद्यं च लभ मां प्राप्य मैथिलि।।5.20.10।।

Transliteration

vicitrāṇi ca mālyāni candanāny agarūṇi ca |

vividhāni ca vāsāṃsi divyāny ābharaṇāni ca ||5.20.9||

mahārhāṇi ca pānāni śayanāny āsanāni ca |

gītaṃ nṛttaṃ ca vādyaṃ ca labha māṃ prāpya maithili ||5.20.10||

Translation

O Maithilī, having obtained me, you may enjoy splendid garlands, sandal and aloe-wood perfumes, many kinds of garments, and divine ornaments; also costly drinks, beds and seats—and song, dance, and music as well.

Context

"O Mythili! having secured me, you get all these comforts- wonderful garlands, sandal, incense, garments and beautiful ornaments, rich drinks, beds and seats.You can enjoy songs, dances accompanied by musical instruments.

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Sītā
• Maithilī (Sītā)

FAQs

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

Dharma is shown as non-negotiable: material pleasures and status cannot justify betrayal of truth, marriage, and rightful conduct.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa tries to entice Sītā with wealth, comforts, and entertainments if she accepts him.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s renunciation of temptation—steadfastness and integrity—stands against offers of luxury.