Shloka 4.16.36

वालिवधः — The Slaying of Vali

Devanagari script

ततस्तेन महातेजा वीयौटत्सिक्तः कपीश्वरः।वेगेनाभिहतो वाली निपपात महीतले4.16.36।।

Transliteration

tasya jyātalaghōṣeṇa trastāḥ patraratheśvarāḥ |

pradudruvur mṛgāś caiva yugānta iva mohitāḥ || 4.16.34 ||

Translation

At the sharp twang of his bowstring, the birds—lords of the sky—were terrified; and the deer and beasts fled in all directions, as though bewildered at the world’s end.

Context

Then the powerful monkey king Vali, who was proud of his might, fell down on earth, struck by the fast flying arrow.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Bowstring (jyā)
• Birds
• Animals

FAQs

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

The verse emphasizes the gravity of dharmic enforcement: righteous power, when unleashed, affects the whole environment and must be handled with restraint.

What is the narrative situation?

The bow is drawn; the sound signals an imminent, decisive strike, startling all creatures nearby.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Majesty and potency (tejas) under purposeful action.