Shloka 5.23.14

राक्षसी-भर्त्सना (The Demonesses’ Coercive Counsel to Sītā)

Devanagari script

समृद्धं स्त्रीसहस्रेण नानारत्नोपशोभितम्।।।।अन्तःपुरं समुत्सृज्य त्वामुपैष्यति रावणः।

Transliteration

niṣkrānte rākṣasendre tu punar antaḥpuraṃ gate | rākṣasyo bhīmarūpās tāḥ sītāṃ samabhidudruvuḥ ||

Translation

When the lord of the rākṣasas had departed and then returned again into the inner palace, those demonesses of dreadful form rushed upon Sītā and crowded around her.

Context

'Ravana is prepared to abandon a thousand wives in his prosperous harem decorated with all kinds of gems in order to accept you.'

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Sītā
• rākṣasī (demonesses)
• antaḥpura (inner palace)

FAQs

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

The verse frames adharma through intimidation: when power withdraws (Rāvaṇa leaving), coercive agents (demonesses) immediately press the vulnerable. It highlights how unrighteous rule relies on fear rather than consent or justice.

What is the narrative situation?

After Rāvaṇa departs for the inner palace, the demonesses surround Sītā, preparing to threaten and pressure her.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s steadfastness is implicitly foregrounded: despite being surrounded, she remains the moral center whose fidelity and truth are tested.