Shloka 3.4.10

विराधवधः — The Slaying (Burial) of Viradha

Devanagari script

तपसा पुरुषव्याघ्र राक्षसोऽयं न शक्यते।शस्त्रेण युधि निर्जेतुं राक्षसं निखनावहे।।।।

Transliteration

tapasā puruṣavyāghra rākṣaso'yaṃ na śakyate | śastreṇa yudhi nirjetuṃ rākṣasaṃ nikhanāvahe ||

Translation

O tiger among men, this demon cannot be conquered in battle with weapons due to the power of his penance; therefore let us bury him.

Context

O Lakshmana, best among men, this demon by virtue of his penance cannot be killed with any weapon in war. Therefore, let us bury him.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Lakshmana
• Viradha

FAQs

Why did Rama decide to bury the demon Viradha instead of using weapons?

Rama realized that Viradha could not be killed by weapons in battle due to a boon obtained through his past penance (tapas), making burial the necessary method of neutralization.

Who is referred to as 'Purushavyaghra' in this verse?

Rama addresses his brother Lakshmana as 'Purushavyaghra', which translates to 'tiger among men', signifying his bravery and prowess.