Shloka 3.32.21

अरण्यकाण्डे द्वात्रिंशः सर्गः — Śūrpaṇakhā’s Report to Rāvaṇa and the Panegyric of His Might

Devanagari script

रावणं सर्वभूतानां सर्वलोकभयावहम्।राक्षसी भ्रातरं शूरं सा ददर्श महाबलम्।।।।

Transliteration

rāvaṇaṃ sarvabhūtānāṃ sarvalokabhayāvaham |

rākṣasī bhrātaraṃ śūraṃ sā dadarśa mahābalam ||

Translation

That rākṣasī saw her brother Rāvaṇa—valiant and immensely strong—who brought fear upon all beings and all worlds.

Context

That demoness , Surpanakha saw her very strong,valiant brother Ravana who made all beings cry and created fear in all worlds;

Characters & Entities

• Śūrpaṇakhā
• Rāvaṇa

FAQs

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

Rule by fear is a sign of adharma; true kingship (rājadharma) is measured by protection and welfare, not terror. The verse frames Rāvaṇa as a cosmic source of fear, contrasting with Dharmic leadership.

What is the narrative situation?

Śūrpaṇakhā arrives in Laṅkā (implied) and beholds Rāvaṇa, setting up her complaint and the plot that leads toward Sītā’s abduction.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Śūrpaṇakhā’s familial dependence is shown, but the verse chiefly emphasizes Rāvaṇa’s intimidating dominance rather than a virtue.