Shloka 1.24.27

गङ्गा–सरयू-सङ्गमः, मलद–करूश-देशकथा, ताटकावनप्रवेशोपदेशः (The Confluence of Gaṅgā and Sarayū; the Tale of Malada–Karūśa; Counsel on Tātakā’s Forest)

Devanagari script

वृत्तबाहुर्महावीर्यो विपुलास्य तनुर्महान्।राक्षसो भैरवाकारो नित्यं त्रासयते प्रजा:।।1.24.27।।

Transliteration

pūrvam āsīn mahāyakṣaḥ suketur nāma vīryavān | anapatyaḥ śubhācāraḥ sa ca tepe mahat tapaḥ ||

Translation

In former times there lived a powerful great Yakṣa named Suketu. Childless yet of pure conduct, he undertook great austerity (tapas).

Context

The arms (of Maricha) are round and strong. He is highly energetic. He has a large face and a huge body. In appearance, he is gigantic and possesses a dreadful form. That rakshasa always threatened the inhabitants.

Characters & Entities

• Suketu
• Yakṣa

FAQs

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

Dharma is supported by śubha-ācāra (pure conduct) and disciplined effort; legitimate desires are pursued through tapas rather than wrongdoing.

What is the narrative situation?

Viśvāmitra begins a backstory about Suketu, introducing him as childless and devoted to austerities.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Perseverance in austerity (tapas) grounded in ethical living (śubhācāra).