Shloka 4.20.13

ताराविलापः — Tara’s Lament over Vāli

Devanagari script

रूपयौवनदृप्तानां दक्षिणानां च मानद।नूनमप्सरसामार्य चित्तानि प्रमथिष्यसि4.20.13।।

Transliteration

rūpayauvanadṛptānāṃ dakṣiṇānāṃ ca mānada | nūnam apsarasām ārya cittāni pramathiṣyasi ||

Translation

O noble one, bestower of honor—surely you will now stir and unsettle the hearts of the gentle apsarases, proud of their beauty and youth.

Context

'O venerable one! you will surely churn the minds of the kind-hearted celestial nymphs who are endowed with youth and beauty.

Characters & Entities

• Tārā
• Vāli
• Apsarases

FAQs

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

The verse hints at impermanence and the moral ambiguity of charm and power: worldly allure continues to tempt minds, but dharma calls for restraint and right orientation beyond mere beauty.

What is the narrative situation?

In grief, Tārā speaks of Vāli’s nobility and captivating presence, imagining even celestial beings being moved by him.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Recognition of greatness (māna) alongside sorrow—Tārā honors Vāli’s stature even while lamenting his fall.