Shloka 5.23.9

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

Devanagari script

ततो हरिजटा नाम राक्षसी वाक्यमब्रवीत्।।।।विवर्त्य नयने कोपान्मार्जारसदृशेक्षणा।

Transliteration

tato harijaṭā nāma rākṣasī vākyam abravīt |

vivartya nayane kopān mārjāra-sadṛśekṣaṇā ||

Translation

Then the rākṣasī named Harijaṭā spoke; rolling her eyes in anger, she stared with a cat-like gaze.

Context

Then an ogress called Harijata said this in anger, her cat-eyes rolling:

Characters & Entities

• Harijaṭā
• Sītā

FAQs

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

Anger-fueled intimidation is presented as a tool of unrighteousness; dharma values restraint and truthful persuasion, not predatory pressure.

What is the narrative situation?

After Ekajaṭā’s persuasion, Harijaṭā takes her turn to speak more aggressively.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Moral courage (dhairya) is demanded of Sītā as she faces escalating hostility.