Shloka 1.20.22

राज्ञः शङ्का–प्रत्याख्यानम् (Daśaratha’s Objections to Sending Rāma) — Bala Kanda, Sarga 20

Devanagari script

देवदानवगन्धर्वा यक्षा:पतगपन्नगा:।न शक्ता रावणं सोढुं किं पुनर्मानवा युधि।।।।

Transliteration

devadānavagandharvā yakṣāḥ patagapannagāḥ | na śaktā rāvaṇaṁ soḍhuṁ kiṁ punar mānavā yudhi |

Translation

Gods, Dānavas, Gandharvas, Yakṣas, birds, and serpents cannot endure Rāvaṇa in battle—how much less can human beings?

Context

Gods, danavas, gandharvas, yakshas, birds and great serpents cannot withstand Ravana in battle. What are men to him? (They are no match to him).

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Devas
• Dānavas
• Gandharvas
• Yakṣas
• Patagas (birds)
• Pannagas (serpents)

FAQs

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

Dharma requires proportionate action: one should not endanger lives through unrealistic plans; acknowledging the scale of harm is part of responsible decision-making.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha argues that if even celestial classes cannot withstand Rāvaṇa, sending humans—especially a young prince—seems impossible.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Prudence and protective responsibility—Daśaratha prioritizes safety and feasibility.