Shloka 3.4.25

विराधवधः — The Slaying (Burial) of Viradha

Devanagari script

तच्छ्रुत्वा राघवो वाक्यं लक्ष्मणं व्यादिदेश ह।कुञ्जरस्येव रौद्रस्य राक्षसस्यास्य लक्ष्मण।।3.4.24।।वनेऽस्मिन् सुमहच्छ्वभ्रं खन्यतां रौदकर्मणः।इत्युक्त्वा लक्ष्मणं रामः प्रदरः खन्यतामिति।तस्थौ विराधमाक्रम्य कण्ठे पादेन वीर्यवान्।।3.4.25।।

Transliteration

vane 'smin sumahac chvabhraṃ khanyatāṃ raudakarmaṇaḥ |

ity uktvā lakṣmaṇaṃ rāmaḥ pradaraḥ khanyatām iti |

tasthau virādham ākramya kaṇṭhe pādena vīryavān ||

Translation

“In this forest, dig a very large pit for this doer of dreadful deeds.” Saying so to Lakṣmaṇa, the valiant Rāma stood firm, pressing Virādha down with his foot upon the neck.

Context

When Rama heard those words, he said, O Lakshmana dig for this elephantlike demon of dreadful acts, a big pit. Having said so the mighty Rama stood firmly stamping the neck of Viradha with his foot.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa
• Virādha
• forest (araṇya)

FAQs

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

Dharma is maintaining order and completing one’s duty: Rāma ensures the threat is controlled and that the aftermath is handled decisively and appropriately.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma orders a pit to be dug and restrains Virādha physically so the task can be completed safely.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Protective competence: Rāma’s strength is paired with practical judgement—securing the situation while directing Lakṣmaṇa.