Shloka 3.4.27

विराधवधः — The Slaying (Burial) of Viradha

Devanagari script

तं मुक्तकण्ठंनिक्षिप्य शङ्कुकर्णं महास्वनम्।विराधं प्राक्षिपच्छ्वभ्रे नदन्तं भैरवस्वनम्।।।।

Transliteration

taṃ muktakaṇṭhaṃ nikṣipya śaṅkukarṇaṃ mahāsvanam |

virādhaṃ prākṣipac chvabhre nadantaṃ bhairavasvanam ||

Translation

Releasing the pressure from his neck, they cast Virādha—sharp-eared, loud-voiced—into the pit, as he roared with a terrifying sound.

Context

Rama took his foot off Viradha's neck and dropped his body with pointed ears into the pit while Viradha was groaning fearfully৷৷

Characters & Entities

• Virādha
• pit (śvabhra)

FAQs

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

Dharma includes ensuring public safety: the violent threat is neutralized decisively so the forest and ascetics are protected from further harm.

What is the narrative situation?

Virādha is placed into the dug pit while he still roars fiercely.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Fearless execution of duty: the heroes do not waver despite Virādha’s terrifying cries.