Shloka 1.3.20

तृतीयः सर्गः (Bālakāṇḍa 3): Vālmīki’s Yogic Verification and the Epic Synopsis

Devanagari script

शूर्पणख्याश्च संवादं विरूपकरणं तथा ।वधं खरत्रिशिरसोरुत्थानं रावणस्य च ।।।।

Transliteration

śūrpaṇakhyāś ca saṃvādaṃ virūpakaraṇaṃ tathā | vadhaṃ khara-triśirasor utthānaṃ rāvaṇasya ca ||

Translation

He also recounted Rāma’s exchange with Śūrpaṇakhā, her disfigurement, the slaying of Khara and Triśiras, and how Rāvaṇa then rose to begin his hostile campaign.

Context

(He described) Rama's dialogue with Surpanakha, her disfigurement, the slaughter of Khara and Trisira, and the beginning of efforts by Ravana (to harm Rama).

Characters & Entities

• Śūrpaṇakhā
• Rāma
• Khara
• Triśiras
• Rāvaṇa

FAQs

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

Unrestrained desire and aggression (adharma) trigger escalating harm; righteous conduct requires restraint, clarity of boundaries, and proportionate response, since actions set in motion further consequences.

What is the narrative situation?

Nārada summarizes key turning points: the Śūrpaṇakhā episode, the ensuing conflict with Khara and Triśiras, and Rāvaṇa’s decision to actively pursue enmity against Rāma.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s adherence to maryādā (proper boundaries and duty) is implied as the stabilizing force amid provocation, contrasted with Rāvaṇa’s impulsive rise driven by passion and vengeance.