Shloka 3.18.10

शूर्पणखाविरूपणम् (The Disfigurement of Śūrpaṇakhā)

Devanagari script

समृद्धार्थस्य सिद्धार्था मुदितामलवर्णिनी।आर्यस्य त्वं विशालाक्षि भार्या भव यवीयसी।।।।

Transliteration

samṛddhārthasya siddhārthā muditāmalavarṇinī | āryasya tvaṃ viśālākṣi bhāryā bhava yavīyasī ||

Translation

O large-eyed one of clear complexion—become the younger wife of my noble master, a man of abundant prosperity, and live content and fulfilled.

Context

O large-eyed one, you have a clear complexion. You may become the younger wife of my master who is lord of great wealth. And live a happy, fulfilled life.

Characters & Entities

• Lakṣmaṇa
• Śūrpaṇakhā
• Rāma

FAQs

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

The episode highlights how desire can invite manipulation and mockery; dharma here is the need for discernment (viveka) and truthful, responsible speech—both of which are being tested in the scene.

What is the narrative situation?

Lakṣmaṇa speaks in a joking, misleading way to redirect Śūrpaṇakhā, suggesting she become a ‘younger wife’ to Rāma.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Primarily a contrast: Śūrpaṇakhā’s lack of discernment is exposed; Lakṣmaṇa’s sharp wit is foregrounded (though ethically ambiguous as mockery).