Shloka 3.69.16

अयोमुखी-दर्शनम् तथा कबन्ध-प्रवेशः (Ayomukhi Encounter and the ظهور of Kabandha)

Devanagari script

उवाच चैनं वचनं सौमित्रिमुपगूह्य सा।अहं त्वयोमुखी नाम लब्धा ते त्वमसि प्रियः।।3.69.15।।नाथ पर्वतकूटेषु नदीनां पुलिनेषु च।आयुश्शेषमिमं वीर त्वं मया सह रंस्यसे।।3.69.16।।

Transliteration

evam uktas tu kupitaḥ khaḍgam uddhṛtya lakṣmaṇaḥ |

karṇanāsāstanaṃ tasyā nicakartārisūdanaḥ ||

Translation

Thus addressed, Lakṣmaṇa—subduer of enemies—grew enraged, drew his sword, and cut off her ears, nose, and breasts.

Context

Taking hold of Saumitri the demoness said 'I am Ayomukhi and I have been obtained by you. You got me, O hero, O lord For the rest of your life you will sport with me on the lofty hills and river banks.'

Characters & Entities

• Lakṣmaṇa
• Ayomukhī

FAQs

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

The verse presents protective force against an immediate threat; however, it also raises a dharmic inquiry about proportionality in violence. In the epic’s frame, Lakṣmaṇa’s act is narrated as decisive threat-neutralization against predatory adharma.

What is the narrative situation?

After being grabbed and propositioned, Lakṣmaṇa retaliates with his sword, mutilating the demoness.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Fearlessness and readiness to defend—swift action when confronted with coercion and danger.