Shloka 3.33.21

शूर्पणखाया रावणं प्रति नीत्युपदेशः (Surpanakha’s Political Admonition to Ravana)

Devanagari script

नयनाभ्यां प्रसुप्तोऽपि जागर्ति नयचक्षुषा।त्यक्तक्रोधप्रमादश्च स राजा पूज्यते जनैः।।।।

Transliteration

svayaṃ kāryāṇi yaḥ kāle nānutiṣṭhati pārthivaḥ | sa tu vai saha rājyena taiś ca kāryair vinaśyati ||

Translation

The king who does not personally carry out necessary duties at the proper time perishes—along with his kingdom and the very affairs that should have been managed.

Context

The king who keeps both his eyes shut but keeps the eye of justice open, one who is free from anger and remains ever alert, is worshipped by the people.

Characters & Entities

• Śūrpaṇakhā
• Rāvaṇa
• rājya (kingdom)

FAQs

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

Dharma in governance includes timely execution of duty; negligence (pramāda) destroys both ruler and realm.

What is the narrative situation?

Śūrpaṇakhā warns Rāvaṇa that failure to act at the right time leads to political collapse.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Diligence and timely responsibility (kāla-jñāna and kartavya-niṣṭhā).