Shloka 5.24.19

सीताभर्त्सना — The Ogresses’ Threats to Sita and Her Vow of Fidelity

Devanagari script

तां कृशां दीनवदनां मलिनाम्बरधारिणीम्।।5.24.19।।भर्त्सयाञ्चक्रिरे सीतां राक्षस्यस्तां समन्ततः।

Transliteration

tāṃ kṛśāṃ dīna-vadanāṃ malināmbara-dhāriṇīm ॥5.24.19॥

bhartsayāṃ cakrire sītāṃ rākṣasyas tāṃ samantataḥ ।

Translation

All around, the rākṣasīs harassed Sītā—thin, downcast in face, and clothed in soiled garments.

Context

The ogresses started intimidating Sita who was dressed in soiled clothes and emaciated with a dejected look on her face.

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• rākṣasī (ogresses)

FAQs

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

The verse condemns cruelty and humiliation as adharma; dharma calls for compassion and protection of one who suffers unjustly.

What is the narrative situation?

The guards continue their intimidation, surrounding Sītā as she stands weakened by sorrow and deprivation.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s forbearance (kṣānti) in enduring degradation without abandoning truth.