Shloka 5.22.39

रावणस्य तर्जनं सीताया धर्मोक्तिः (Ravana’s Threats and Sita’s Dharma-Centered Reply)

Devanagari script

उपगम्य ततः शीघ्रं राक्षसी धान्यमालिनी।।।।परिष्वज्य दशग्रीवमिदं वचनमब्रवीत्।

Transliteration

upagamya tataḥ śīghraṃ rākṣasī dhānyamālinī |

pariṣvajya daśagrīvam idaṃ vacanam abravīt ||

Translation

Then the rākṣasī Dhānyamālinī quickly approached and, embracing Daśagrīva, spoke these words.

Context

An ogress called Dhanyamalini at once approached the ten-headed Ravana and embracing him, said:.

Characters & Entities

• Dhānyamālinī
• Daśagrīva (Rāvaṇa)

FAQs

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

It introduces a moment where persuasion replaces violence: counsel and restraint can interrupt wrongdoing, even within an adharma-driven setting.

What is the narrative situation?

As Rāvaṇa threatens Sītā, Dhānyamālinī intervenes physically and verbally, preparing to redirect him away from Sītā.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Dhānyamālinī’s practical tact (nīti) is emphasized—she uses closeness and speech to influence a powerful king.