Shloka 3.4.12

विराधवधः — The Slaying (Burial) of Viradha

Devanagari script

इत्युक्त्वा लक्ष्मणं रामः प्रदरः खन्यतामिति।तस्थौ विराधमाक्रम्य कण्ठे पादेन वीर्यवान्।।।।

Transliteration

ity uktvā lakṣmaṇaṃ rāmaḥ pradaraḥ khanyatām iti |

tasthau virādham ākramya kaṇṭhe pādena vīryavān ||

Translation

Having thus spoken to Lakṣmaṇa—“Let a cleft be dug”—the mighty Rāma stood with his foot pressed upon Virādha’s neck, holding him down.

Context

Courageous Rama standing there put his foot firmly on the neck of Viradha and said to Lakshmana,' Dig up a crevice'.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa
• Virādha

FAQs

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

Dharma includes firm restraint of wrongdoing: force is applied not for cruelty, but to prevent further violence and restore safety.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma immobilizes Virādha by pressing his neck with his foot while directing Lakṣmaṇa to dig a crevice/pit.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s valor combined with control—strength used with purpose and discipline.