Shloka 3.23.25

महोत्पात-लक्षणानि (Omens before Khara’s Assault)

Devanagari script

सा तस्य गर्जितं श्रुत्वा राक्षसस्य महाचमूः।।।।प्रहर्षमतुलं लेभे मृत्युपाशावपाशिता।

Transliteration

sā tasya garjitaṃ śrutvā rākṣasasya mahācamūḥ | praharṣam atulaṃ lēbhē mṛtyupāśāvapāśitā ||

Translation

Hearing the rākṣasa’s roar, that vast host—already ensnared in Death’s noose—was seized by immeasurable exhilaration.

Context

Fallen into the death-trap, the great army of the demon, felt very happy on hearing Khara roaring.

Characters & Entities

• Khara
• Rākṣasa army (mahācamū)
• Mṛtyu (Death, implied via mṛtyupāśa)

FAQs

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

Dharma warns that collective excitement can mask impending ruin; when a group follows adharma, it may celebrate even as it moves toward destruction.

What is the narrative situation?

Khara’s boasts energize his army, though the narration signals that they are headed toward death.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Discernment and sober counsel are needed in leadership and followership; the army shows reckless enthusiasm instead.