Shloka 3.4.14

विराधवधः — The Slaying (Burial) of Viradha

Devanagari script

हतोऽस्मि पुरुषव्याघ्र शक्रतुल्यबलेन वै।मया तु पूर्वं त्वं मोहान्न ज्ञातः पुरुषर्षभ।।।।

Transliteration

hato 'smi puruṣavyāghra śakratulyabalena vai |

mayā tu pūrvaṃ tvaṃ mohān na jñātaḥ puruṣarṣabha ||

Translation

I am slain, O tiger among men; your strength is truly like Indra’s. O best of men, through delusion I did not recognize you earlier.

Context

You have killed me, O Rama, a tiger among men. You are equal to Indra in prowess. O best of men, out of delusion I could not recognise you earlier.

Characters & Entities

• Virādha
• Rāma
• Indra (Śakra)

FAQs

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

Satya begins with self-admission: Virādha confesses his delusion and acknowledges rightful power, implying that ignorance (moha) leads to adharma.

What is the narrative situation?

Virādha, overpowered, admits defeat and says he failed to recognize Rāma earlier due to delusion.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s invincible prowess aligned with righteous purpose—strength comparable to Indra’s.