Shloka 4.17.5

वालिवधः — Vālī’s Fall and Dharma-Accusation (Kiṣkindhā Sarga 17)

Devanagari script

शक्रदत्ता वरा माला काञ्चनी वज्रभूषिता।दधार हरिमुख्यस्य प्राणांस्तेज्शियं च सा।।

Transliteration

śakradattā varā mālā kāñcanī vajrabhūṣitā | dadhāra harimukhyasya prāṇāṃs tejaḥśriyaṃ ca sā ||

Translation

That exquisite golden garland—bestowed by Śakra (Indra) and adorned with vajra-like jewels—sustained the life, radiance, and splendor of Vāli, foremost of the monkeys.

Context

As the most beautiful golden necklace, studded with diamonds, given by Indra was there on him, the life, brightness and splendour of Vali's body remained.

Characters & Entities

• Vāli
• Śakra (Indra)
• mālā (garland)
• vajra (vajra-like jewels/diamond)
• Hari-mukhya (chief of monkeys)

FAQs

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

It suggests a worldview where divine gifts can uphold a hero’s strength and splendor; dharma is intertwined with cosmic order and divine bestowal.

What is the narrative situation?

The narration describes Vāli’s divine garland from Indra and its life-sustaining effect, contextualizing his formidable presence even after being wounded.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Heroic majesty and divinely supported vitality—Vāli’s exceptional status among the Vānaras.