Shloka 4.16.19

वालिवधः — The Slaying of Vali

Devanagari script

तं वाली क्रोधताम्राक्षस्सुग्रीवं रणपण्डितम्।आपतन्तं महावेगमिदं वचनमब्रवीत्4.16.19।।

Transliteration

taṃ vālī krodhatāmrākṣaḥ sugrīvaṃ raṇapaṇḍitam |

āpatantaṃ mahāvegam idaṃ vacanam abravīt || 4.16.19 ||

Translation

As Sugrīva—the skilled warrior—rushed forward at great speed, Vāli, his eyes reddened with anger, spoke these words to him.

Context

While Sugriva, expert in combat, advanced swiftly to pounce upon (his enemy), Vali whose eyes turned red in anger said:

Characters & Entities

• Vāli
• Sugrīva

FAQs

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

Speech at moments of anger must be governed by restraint; Dharma treats words as consequential actions, especially amid violence.

What is the narrative situation?

Sugrīva charges in; Vāli begins to speak, setting up the verbal exchange before blows land.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sugrīva’s martial competence is noted; Vāli’s state highlights the danger of anger overpowering judgment.