Shloka 3.21.10

खर-शूर्पणखा-संवादः | Khara and Surpanakha: Lament, Reproach, and the Janasthana Crisis

Devanagari script

तान्दृष्ट्वा पतितान्भूमौ क्षणेनैव महाबलान्।रामस्य च महत्कर्म महांस्त्रासोऽभवन्मम।।।।

Transliteration

tān dṛṣṭvā patitān bhūmau kṣaṇenaiva mahābalān | rāmasya ca mahat karma mahāṃs trāso 'bhavan mama ||

Translation

When I saw those mighty ones fallen to the ground in a mere moment through Rama’s formidable deed, great fear seized me.

Context

Seeing the powerful demons collapse on the ground in a moment's time through Rama's action, I was frightened.

Characters & Entities

• Shurpanakha (Śūrpaṇakhā)
• Khara
• Rama
• fallen rakshasas

FAQs

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

Adharma breeds भय (fear): when wrongdoing meets righteous strength, the wrongdoer experiences insecurity and panic.

What is the narrative situation?

Shurpanakha reports to Khara that Rama swiftly struck down powerful demons, terrifying her.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Indirectly, Rama’s decisive competence in protecting dharma; directly, Shurpanakha’s fear and vulnerability.