Shloka 3.31.12
अकम्पनवृत्तान्तः — Akampana Reports Janasthana; Ravana Plans Sita’s Abduction
अकम्पनवच श्रुत्वा रावणो राक्षसाधिपः।नागेन्द्र इव निश्वस्य वचनं चेदमब्रवीत्।।3.31.12।।
akampana-vacaḥ śrutvā rāvaṇo rākṣasādhipaḥ |
nāgendra iva niśvasya vacanaṃ cedam abravīt ||
Hearing Akampana’s words, Ravana, lord of the rakshasas, sighed like the king of serpents and then spoke these words.
Having heard Akampana's words, Ravana, the lord of demons, sighed heavily like the king of serpents and said these words:
The verse highlights the psychological tremor that arises when unjust power meets accountability. Dharma presses upon adharma, producing fear and agitation even in a mighty ruler.
Ravana absorbs the news of Janasthana’s destruction and reacts with a heavy, ominous sigh before responding.
No virtue is praised; instead, Ravana’s disturbed pride and looming wrath are suggested through the serpent-king simile.