Ramayana — Ayodhya Kanda, Sarga 7, Shloka 25
मन्थराप्रवेशः
Manthara Observes Ayodhya and Incites Kaikeyi
उपस्थितः प्रयुञ्जानस्त्वयि सान्त्वमनर्थकम्।अर्थेनैवाद्य ते भर्ता कौसल्यां योजयिष्यति।।।।
upasthitaḥ prayuñjānas tvayi sāntvam anarthakam | arthenaivādya te bhartā kausalyāṃ yojayiṣyati ||
Quand bien même il viendrait à toi en prodiguant des paroles de consolation vaines, aujourd’hui ton époux accordera le véritable avantage à Kausalyā seule.
When your husband approaches you he swears in meaningless, appeasing words. But today he is going to bestow benefit on Kausalya only.
FAQs
It contrasts empty speech with meaningful action; dharma values truthful intent and fair conduct over mere soothing words.
Mantharā claims Kaikeyī is being placated while Kausalyā receives the true benefit through Rāma’s elevation.
Justice/fairness is the implied standard—used here as a grievance to provoke Kaikeyī.