Shloka 3.32.4

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

Devanagari script

सा ददर्श विमानाग्रे रावणं दीप्ततेजसम्।उपोपविष्टं सचिवैर्मरुद्भिरिव वासवम्।।।।

Transliteration

āsīnaṃ sūryasaṅkāśe kāñcane paramāsane | rukmavedigataṃ prājyaṃ jvalantam iva pāvakam ||

Translation

He was seated on a splendid golden throne, radiant like the sun—like a great fire blazing upon a golden altar.

Context

Surpanakha saw Ravana shining brilliantly, seated like Indra along with ministers and Maruts on top of the aerial chariot.

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Golden throne/seat
• Golden altar (vedi)
• Sun
• Fire (Pāvaka)

FAQs

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

Dharma teaching by contrast: brilliance and prosperity can accompany adharma; therefore, ethical judgment must be based on conduct (ācāra), not spectacle.

What is the narrative situation?

The narration continues describing Rāvaṇa’s imposing royal splendor as Śūrpaṇakhā beholds him in Laṅkā.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

The verse foregrounds majesty and power rather than virtue—preparing the reader to see how unchecked power can oppose dharma.