Shloka 4.20.4

ताराविलापः — Tara’s Lament over Vāli

Devanagari script

रणे दारुण विक्रान्त प्रवीर प्लवतां वर।किं दीनामपुरोभागामद्य त्वं नाभिभाषसे।।4.20.4।।

Transliteration

raṇe dāruṇa vikrānta pravīra plavatāṁ vara | kiṁ dīnām apurobhāgām adya tvaṁ nābhibhāṣase || 4.20.4 ||

Translation

“O valiant one—terrible in battle, foremost among the monkeys—why do you not speak today to me, wretched and helpless before you?”

Context

'O valiant hero, lord of monkeys! you were terrifying in war. Why don't you speak now to me so forlorn and helpless?

Characters & Entities

• Tārā
• Vāli

FAQs

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

The verse contrasts worldly valor with the truth of mortality: power in war cannot answer death. Dharma reflection here is humility—recognizing limits and not relying solely on strength.

What is the narrative situation?

Tārā addresses the fallen Vāli, expecting speech and reassurance, but receives only silence.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Tārā’s frankness (satya) and emotional fidelity—she speaks directly to her husband without concealment.