Shloka 3.18.1

शूर्पणखाविरूपणम् (The Disfigurement of Śūrpaṇakhā)

Devanagari script

ततश्शूर्पणखां रामः कामपाशावपाशिताम्।स्वच्छया श्लक्ष्णया वाचा स्मितपूर्वमथाब्रवीत्।।।।

Transliteration

tataś śūrpaṇakhāṃ rāmaḥ kāmapāśāvapāśitām | svacchayā ślakṣṇayā vācā smitapūrvam athābravīt ||

Translation

Then Rāma, seeing Śūrpaṇakhā bound fast by the noose of passion, spoke to her with a smile, in words that were clear and gentle.

Context

To Surpanakha bound by the noose of passion Rama with a smile replied in a clear, lucid manner:

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Śūrpaṇakhā

FAQs

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

Dharma is shown as restraint and civility in speech: even when confronted with improper intent, one replies with clarity and gentleness rather than cruelty.

What is the narrative situation?

After Śūrpaṇakhā becomes infatuated, Rāma begins responding to her—setting the stage for Lakṣmaṇa’s later teasing and her ensuing rage.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s maryādā (measured conduct) and vāg-saṃyama (discipline of speech).