Shloka 4.16.26

वालिवधः — The Slaying of Vali

Devanagari script

ततोऽवर्धत वाली तु बलवीर्यसमन्वितः।सूर्यपुत्रो महावीर्यस्सुग्रीवः परिहीयते4.16.26।।

Transliteration

tato 'vardhata vālī tu balavīryasamanvitaḥ |

sūryaputro mahāvīryaḥ sugrīvaḥ parihīyate || 4.16.26 ||

Translation

Then Vālin, endowed with strength and valor, grew dominant; while mighty Sugrīva, the Sun’s son, began to lose ground.

Context

In a short while Vali, endowed with great strength, gained the upper hand and Sugriva, son of the Sun-god, was losing ground .

Characters & Entities

• Vālin
• Sugrīva
• Sun (Sūrya)

FAQs

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

Dharma underscores realism about power: righteousness often requires timely support and right strategy, not merely personal might—setting the stage for Rāma’s promised assistance.

What is the narrative situation?

The battle’s momentum shifts: Vālin becomes stronger in the exchange, and Sugrīva weakens.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Vālin’s superior combat strength; Sugrīva’s endurance despite decline.