Shloka 4.3.11

हनूमत्संवादः / Hanuman’s Diplomatic Approach to Rama and Lakshmana

Devanagari script

प्रभया पर्वतेन्द्रोऽयं युवयोरवभासितः।राज्यार्हावमरप्रख्यौ कथं देशमिहागतौ।।

Transliteration

prabhayā parvatendro 'yaṃ yuvayor avabhāsitaḥ |

rājyārhāv amaraprakhyau kathaṃ deśam ihāgatau || 4.3.11 ||

Translation

“This lord of mountains shines with your radiance. You both look like gods and are fit to rule—how then have you come to this wilderness?”

Context

'You are young and radiant like the gods. This king of mountains (Rishyamuka) dazzles with your brilliance. Although you deserve to be sovereigns, how is it that you are here (into the forest)?

Characters & Entities

• Hanumān
• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa
• Ṛṣyamūka (implied by context: mountain)

FAQs

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

Dharma values rightful station and moral order: those fit to protect society (rājadharma) appearing in hardship prompts inquiry into the ethical cause—often exile undertaken for truth and duty.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanumān, assessing the strangers’ nobility, asks why such kingly figures are present in a forested region.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Hanumān’s perceptiveness and respectful curiosity—he asks without accusation, seeking the truth behind appearances.