Shloka 5.38.19

अभिज्ञानप्रदानम् — The Token of Recognition (Chūḍāmaṇi) and the Crow Episode Recalled

Devanagari script

आसीनस्य च ते श्रान्ता पुनरुत्सङ्गमाविशम्।क्रुध्यन्ती च प्रहृष्टेन त्वयाऽहं परिसान्त्विता।।5.38.19।।

Transliteration

utkarṣantyāṃ ca raśanāṃ kruddhāyāṃ mayi pakṣiṇi |

srasyamāne ca vasane tato dṛṣṭā tvayā hy aham || 5.38.17 ||

Translation

As I angrily pulled up my waist-string while my garment was slipping because of that bird, then you saw me.

Context

'Exhausted, I sat on your lap again. Seeing my angry face you pacified me. You were happy (to see me draw close).

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Rāma
• crow (implied)

FAQs

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

Maryādā (propriety) and modesty are upheld even in distress; Sītā’s concern for decorum coexists with the need for protection.

What is the narrative situation?

During the crow’s harassment, Sītā’s clothing becomes disordered; Rāma notices her in that vulnerable moment.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s modesty and self-respect—virtues traditionally associated with inner discipline, not weakness.