Shloka 3.28.27

खररामयुद्धम् — The Battle of Khara and Rama (Aranya Kanda, Sarga 28)

Devanagari script

शिरस्येकेन बाणेन द्वाभ्यां बह्वोरथार्दयत्।त्रिभिश्चन्द्रार्धवक्त्रैश्च वक्षस्यभिजघान ह।।।।

Transliteration

śirasy ekena bāṇena dvābhyāṃ bāhvor athārdayat |

tribhiś candrārdha-vaktraiś ca vakṣasy abhijaghāna ha ||

Translation

With one arrow he struck the head; with two he battered the shoulders; and with three crescent-faced arrows he smote the chest.

Context

Rama hit one arrow on the head, two on the shoulders and three of the shape of the crescent moon on the chest (of the enemy).

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Khara

FAQs

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

The verse reflects warrior-dharma as controlled, purposeful engagement—demonstrating that power should be directed with skill rather than indiscriminate harm.

What is the narrative situation?

Rama’s volley lands in a structured sequence, injuring key parts of Khara’s body.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rama’s martial excellence (śaurya and kauśala): precision, timing, and effectiveness.