Shloka 4.55.11

अङ्गदस्य प्रायोपवेशननिश्चयः (Angada’s Resolve to Fast unto Death)

Devanagari script

बन्धनाद्वाऽवसादान्मे श्रेयः प्रायोपवेशनम्।अनुजानीत मां सर्वे गृहं गच्छन्तु वानराः।।।।

Transliteration

bandhanād vā avasādān me śreyaḥ prāyopaveśanam |

anujānīta māṃ sarve gṛhaṃ gacchantu vānarāḥ ||

Translation

For me, rather than imprisonment or humiliation, fasting unto death is the better course. Permit me this; let all the vānaras return home.

Context

'It is better for me to fast unto death rather than suffer imprisonment. Permit me to do so. You may all go back.

Characters & Entities

• Angada
• Vānaras

FAQs

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

It reflects the ancient idea of prāyopaveśa as a chosen response to perceived dishonor and unavoidable suffering—raising questions about duty, responsibility, and the ethics of self-withdrawal.

What is the narrative situation?

Believing the mission has failed and fearing punishment, Angada asks permission to fast unto death and tells the others to return.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

A severe form of honor-bound resolve (māna/ātmasaṃkalpa), though shaded by despair.