Shloka 5.26.45

सीताविलापः — Sita’s Lament and Prophecy of Lanka’s Ruin

Devanagari script

श्रेयो मे जीवितान्मर्तुं विहीनाया महात्मनः।।।।रामादक्लिष्टचारित्राच्छूराच्छत्रुनिबर्हणात्।

Transliteration

śreyo me jīvitān martuṃ vihīnāyā mahātmanaḥ | rāmād akliṣṭacāritrāc chūrāc chatrunibarhaṇāt ||

Translation

For me, separated from great-souled Rāma—of unblemished conduct, heroic, and a destroyer of enemies—death is better than life.

Context

"Instead of living separated from noble and brave Rama, a blemishless character and adestroyer of enemies, it is better for me to die.

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Rāma

FAQs

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

The verse underscores the dharmic ideal of unwavering spousal commitment; separation from rightful duty and protector feels worse than death to Sītā.

What is the narrative situation?

Under prolonged captivity and threats, Sītā voices suicidal despair rooted in separation from Rāma.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s akliṣṭacāritra (stainless conduct) and Sītā’s single-pointed devotion (ananyatā) to her husband.