Shloka 3.19.24

खरस्य क्रोधः — शूर्पणखावृत्तान्तकथनम् (Khara’s Wrath and Śūrpaṇakhā’s Report)

Devanagari script

मनोरथोऽयमिष्टोऽस्या भगिन्या मम राक्षसाः।शीघ्रं सम्पाद्यतां तौ च प्रमथ्य स्वेन तेजसा।।।।

Transliteration

deva-gandharva-bhūtānām ṛṣīṇāṃ ca mahātmanām | ko ’yam evaṃ virūpāṃ tvāṃ mahāvīryaś cakāra ha ||

Translation

Who is this mighty hero—among gods, gandharvas, spirits, or great sages—who has truly disfigured you in this manner?

Context

O demons! quickly go and crush them with your power and fulfil my sister's sincere wish.

Characters & Entities

• Khara
• Śūrpaṇakhā
• Devas
• Gandharvas
• Bhūtas
• Ṛṣis

FAQs

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

Seeking truth (satya) before action: dharma begins with accurate understanding—identifying who acted and why—rather than acting blindly.

What is the narrative situation?

Khara tries to assess the identity and stature of the one who harmed Śūrpaṇakhā, implying the opponent’s exceptional power.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Inquiry and clarity: the impulse to know the facts prior to response.