Shloka 3.4.4

विराधवधः — The Slaying (Burial) of Viradha

Devanagari script

तस्यास्तद्वचनं श्रुत्वा वैदेह्या रामलक्ष्मणौ।वेगं प्रचक्रतुर्वीरौ वधे तस्य दुरात्मनः।।।।

Transliteration

sa viddho bahubhir bāṇaiḥ khaṅgābhyāṃ ca parikṣataḥ | niṣpiṣṭo bahudhā bhūmau na mamāra sa rākṣasaḥ ||

Translation

Though pierced by many arrows, slashed by two swords, and crushed in many ways upon the ground, that rākṣasa still did not die.

Context

On hearing those words of Sita, both the heroes, Rama and Lakshmana hastened to kill the wicked Viradha.

Characters & Entities

• Virādha (rākṣasa)
• arrows (bāṇa)
• swords (khaṅga)
• ground (bhūmi)

FAQs

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

Discernment in action: dharma is not mere violence; when ordinary means fail, one must seek the right method consistent with truth and effective protection.

What is the narrative situation?

Despite severe injuries from weapons and blows, Virādha remains alive, revealing a special condition for his death.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Steadfastness and adaptability—continuing the righteous task even when expected methods do not work.