Shloka 4.40.48

पूर्वदिशि सीतामार्गण-नियोगः (Deployment to the Eastern Quarter for the Search of Sita)

Devanagari script

तत्र विक्रोशतां नादो भूतानां सागरौकसाम्।।4.40.48।।श्रूयते च समर्थानां दृष्ट्वा तद्बडबामुखम्।

Transliteration

tatra vikrośatāṃ nādo bhūtānāṃ sāgaraukasām | śrūyate ca samarthānāṃ dṛṣṭvā tad baḍabāmukham ||

Translation

There, the cries of sea-dwelling creatures are heard; for even the strong, on beholding that fearsome Vadavā-fire, are driven to alarm.

Context

'You can hear the sounds of helpless oceanic creatures crying loudly on seeing the burning face of Vadava.

Characters & Entities

• Sāgara (Ocean)
• Baḍabāmukha / Vadavāgni (submarine fire)

FAQs

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

Dharma here is expressed as prudent discernment: recognizing overwhelming danger and responding with restraint and alertness rather than reckless bravado.

What is the narrative situation?

Sugriva describes extraordinary oceanic phenomena to the vanaras while directing their search, warning them about the terrifying Vadavā-fire.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Practical wisdom (nīti) and caution—strength must be guided by awareness of limits.