Shloka 1.26.21

ताटकावधः (The Slaying of Tāṭakā)

Devanagari script

अलं ते घृणया राम पापैषा दुष्टचारिणी।।1.26.21।।यज्ञविघ्नकरी यक्षी पुरावर्धति मायया।

Transliteration

alaṃ te ghṛṇayā rāma pāpaiṣā duṣṭacāriṇī | yajñavighnakarī yakṣī purā vardhati māyayā ||1.26.21||

Translation

"Enough of compassion, O Rama. This Yakshi is sinful and wicked; she obstructs sacrifices and will only grow stronger through her magic."

Context

"O Rama! she does not deserve any more compassion. This yakshini who is sinful, wicked and obstructor of sacrifice will regain her strength by her magical powers ".

Characters & Entities

• Viśvāmitra
• Rāma
• Tāṭakā
• yakṣī
• yajña
• māyā

FAQs

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

Compassion must be guided by discernment; dharma may require firm action against persistent harm, especially when sacred social order (yajña) is attacked.

What is the narrative situation?

Viśvāmitra urges Rāma not to spare Tāṭakā, warning that her magic will restore her power and continue the disruption.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma is being trained in विवेक (viveka, moral discernment): distinguishing mercy from negligence of duty.