Shloka 4.55.18

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

Devanagari script

सुग्रीवं चैव निन्दन्तः प्रशंसन्तश्च वालिनम्।।।।परिवार्याङ्गदं सर्वे व्यवसन्प्रायमासितुम्।

Transliteration

sthairyam ātma-manaḥ-śaucam ānṛśaṁsyam atha ārjavam |

vikramaś caiva dhairyaṁ ca sugrīve nopapadyate ||

Translation

In Sugrīva, they say, there is neither steadfastness nor purity of body and mind; neither compassion nor rectitude—nor even valour and patient endurance.

Context

Blaming Sugriva and praising Vali, all the companions of Angada sat there surrounding him after having decided to fast unto death .

Characters & Entities

• Sugriva

FAQs

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

Dharma in leadership requires inner and outer purity, compassion, rectitude, courage, and steadfast endurance; the verse condemns a ruler who lacks these qualities.

What is the narrative situation?

After failing to complete Rāma’s mission in time, Angada’s group debates their predicament and begins openly censuring Sugrīva’s character.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Steadfastness and moral integrity (śauca, ārjava) joined with courage and patience (vikrama, dhairya).