Ramayana — Yuddha Kanda, Sarga 6, Shloka 18
रावणस्य मन्त्रविचारः
Ravana’s Council on Strategy
समुद्रमुच्छोषयतिवीर्येणान्यत्करोतिवा ।।6.6.18।।अस्मिन्नेवंगतेकार्येविरुद्धेवानरैस्सह ।हितंपुरेचसैन्येचसर्वसम्मन्त्रयतांमम ।।6.6.19।।
samudram ucchōṣayati vīryeṇa anyat karoti vā |
asmin evaṃ gate kārye viruddhe vānaraiḥ saha |
hitaṃ pure ca sainye ca sarvaṃ sammantrayatāṃ mama ||6.6.18-6.6.19||
He may, by his prowess, dry up the ocean—or accomplish some other extraordinary deed. Since matters have come to this, with the Vānaras as our adversaries, advise me fully on what will be beneficial both for the city and for the army.
"He who decides, after deliberating with his well-wishers, with capable ministers of good counsel, relatives of common interest or friends before undertaking his task and tries with faith in god is said to be best among men."
FAQs
Dharma in leadership includes realistic assessment of an opponent’s capability and prioritizing the welfare of citizens and soldiers through comprehensive, truth-oriented counsel.
With war imminent and the enemy alliance formed, Rāvaṇa urges his council to propose a plan that safeguards both Laṅkā and its forces.
Strategic foresight: anticipating extraordinary moves and planning for public and military welfare together.