Shloka 1.26.24

ताटकावधः (The Slaying of Tāṭakā)

Devanagari script

सा रुद्धा शरजालेन मायाबलसमन्विता।।1.26.24।।अभिदुद्राव काकुत्स्थं लक्ष्मणं च विनेदुषी।

Transliteration

sā ruddhā śarajālena māyābalasamanvitā | abhidudrāva kākutsthaṃ lakṣmaṇaṃ ca vineduṣī ||

Translation

Obstructed by the net of arrows, that demoness, possessed of magical powers, rushed roaring towards Rama and Lakshmana.

Context

.Prevented by a multitude of arrows, she with her magical powers, advanced towards Rama and Lakshmana-roaring.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma (Kākutstha)
• Lakṣmaṇa
• yakṣī/demoness (Tāṭakā in context)
• māyā (illusion/magic)

FAQs

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

Dharma emphasizes steadfast defense: even when faced with intimidation and magical deception, one must protect the innocent and not retreat from rightful duty.

What is the narrative situation?

After being held back by arrows, the demoness attempts a direct assault on both Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa with a terrifying roar.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Fearless steadiness—holding one’s ground against both physical and psychological (roaring, māyā) threats.