Shloka 3.34.1

आरण्यकाण्डे चतुस्त्रिंशः सर्गः — Śūrpaṇakhā Reports to Rāvaṇa; Rāma’s Might and Sītā’s Description

Devanagari script

ततश्शूर्पणखां दृष्ट्वा ब्रुवन्तीं परुषं वचः।अमात्यमध्ये सङ्क्रुद्धः परिपप्रच्छ रावणः।।।।

Transliteration

tataḥ śūrpaṇakhāṃ dṛṣṭvā bruvantīṃ paruṣaṃ vacaḥ | amātya-madhye saṃkruddhaḥ paripapraccha rāvaṇaḥ ||

Translation

Then, seeing Śūrpaṇakhā speaking harshly in the midst of his ministers, Rāvaṇa—angered—questioned her further.

Context

Incensed at the harsh words Surpanakha used in the midst of ministers, Ravana said:

Characters & Entities

• Śūrpaṇakhā
• Rāvaṇa
• ministers (amātya)

FAQs

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

Speech and counsel in a royal court carry consequences; anger arising amid public counsel can distort judgment and lead to adharmic decisions.

What is the narrative situation?

In Laṅkā’s court, Śūrpaṇakhā speaks bitterly; Rāvaṇa, provoked before his ministers, presses her for details.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

By contrast, the verse highlights the need for restraint and measured inquiry in leadership—especially in public settings.