Shloka 3.21.2

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

Devanagari script

मया त्विदानीं शूरास्ते राक्षसा रुधिराशनाः।त्वत्प्रियार्थं विनिर्दिष्टाः किमर्थं रुद्यते पुनः।।।।

Transliteration

mayā tv idānīṁ śūrās te rākṣasā rudhirāśanāḥ | tvat-priyārthaṁ vinirdiṣṭāḥ kimarthaṁ rudyate punaḥ ||

Translation

Just now, for your pleasure, I commanded those heroic Rakshasas who feed on blood. Why then do you weep again?

Context

The valiant demons who feed on blood have been commissioned for your pleasure. Why are you crying again?

Characters & Entities

• Khara
• Śūrpaṇakhā
• Rākṣasāḥ

FAQs

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

It shows how adharma can normalize violence as ‘service’ to another’s desire. Dharma would question the legitimacy of deploying violence for mere gratification or revenge.

What is the narrative situation?

Khara responds to Śūrpaṇakhā’s distress, stating he has already dispatched rākṣasas for her sake and asking why she still cries.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

A distorted form of loyalty is shown—obedience to a relative’s wish—without dharmic discernment, illustrating that loyalty without righteousness becomes harmful.