Shloka 5.23.2

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

Devanagari script

निष्क्रान्ते राक्षसेन्द्रे तु पुनरन्तःपुरं गते।राक्षस्यो भीमरूपास्ताः सीतां समभिदुद्रुवुः।।।।

Transliteration

tatas tu durmukhī nāma rākṣasī vākyam abravīt | yasya sūryo na tapati bhīto yasya ca mārutaḥ | na vāti sma āyatāpāṅge kiṃ tvaṃ tasya na tiṣṭhasi ||

Translation

Then the demoness named Durmukhī spoke: “O long-eyed lady, in fear of whom the sun does not burn and the wind does not blow—why do you not yield to him?”

Context

As the demon king left for his abode all the demonesses of hideous looks rushed towards Sita and crowded around her.

Characters & Entities

• Durmukhī
• Sītā
• Rāvaṇa (implied)
• Sūrya (Sun)
• Māruta (Wind)

FAQs

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

The verse demonstrates fear-based coercion—an adharma method. Dharma is upheld through truth and rightful conduct, not by forcing compliance through terror.

What is the narrative situation?

Durmukhī attempts to compel Sītā by portraying Rāvaṇa as so powerful that even nature fears him.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s courage: she is expected to resist intimidation and remain aligned with dharma despite threats.