tatastu dṛṣṭvā jānakīm muktakeśīm
“Then having seen Janaki with her loose hair”
Structure
tatastu dṛṣṭvā jānakīm muktakeśīm
tatastu (then) dṛṣṭvā (having seen) jānakīm (Jānakī) muktakeśīm (with loose hair)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| tatastu | tatastu | indeclinable | — | then, at that place |
| dṛṣṭvā | dṛṣṭvā | indeclinable | — | having seen |
| jānakīm | jānakīm | noun | accusative · singular · feminine | Jānakī (Sītā) |
| muktakeśīm | muktakeśīm | noun | accusative · singular · feminine | with loosened hair |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): The verse 'tatastu dṛṣṭvā jānakīm muktakeśīm' from the Rāmāyaṇa highlights the non-dual nature of reality by portraying Janaki with loose hair, a symbol of letting go of worldly attachments. According to Shankara, the ultimate reality, Brahman, is beyond all duality, and the individual self, Ātman, is not separate from it. In his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, Shankara notes that the realization of this non-dual essence is the key to liberation. This verse, by depicting Janaki in a state of detachment, serves as a reminder of the importance of transcending worldly bonds to realize the unity of Brahman and Ātman. The image of Janaki with loose hair can be seen as a representation of the dissolution of individual identity, underscoring the Advaitic notion that the ultimate reality is beyond human constructs. By contemplating this verse, one can move towards the understanding that the distinctions between the self and the world are illusory, and that the true nature of existence is non-dual. This understanding is central to Shankara's philosophy and is echoed in his commentary on various Upanishads, where he emphasizes the importance of recognizing the Ātman-Brahman identity.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, the depiction of Janaki with loose hair in the verse 'tatastu dṛṣṭvā jānakīm muktakeśīm' is seen as a symbol of her devotion to Lord Rama and her surrender to His will. According to Ramanuja, the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord) is one of dependence and devotion. Janaki's loose hair represents her willingness to let go of her ego and worldly attachments, demonstrating her complete surrender to Lord Rama. This surrender is a key aspect of Vaiṣṇava theology, as emphasized by Madhva, who notes that the ultimate goal of human existence is to attain loving devotion to the Lord. The verse highlights the importance of bhakti (devotion) in achieving a deeper connection with the divine, and Janaki's character serves as a model for devotees to emulate. By examining this verse through the lens of Vaiṣṇava theology, one can understand the significance of self-surrender and devotion in the pursuit of spiritual growth and liberation.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): The verse 'tatastu dṛṣṭvā jānakīm muktakeśīm' holds profound significance in contemporary life, as it symbolizes the liberation of the individual from the constraints of societal expectations and ego. According to Swami Vivekananda, true freedom can only be achieved by letting go of our attachment to external appearances and identities. Janaki's loose hair represents this freedom, echoing Vivekananda's message of self-empowerment and individuality. In his lectures on the Upanishads, Vivekananda emphasizes the importance of realizing one's true nature, beyond the limitations imposed by society and the ego. Similarly, S. Radhakrishnan notes that the universal and practical application of this verse lies in its portrayal of the human quest for freedom and self-expression. By contemplating this verse, one can reflect on the importance of embracing one's true nature and finding the courage to break free from societal constraints, ultimately leading to a more authentic and fulfilling life. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the timeless relevance of ancient Indian wisdom in navigating the complexities of modern life.