Shloka 4.55.9

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

Devanagari script

भिन्नमन्त्रोऽपराद्धश्च हीनशक्तिः कथं ह्यहम्।किष्किन्धां प्राप्य जीवेयमनाथ इव दुर्बलः।।।।

Transliteration

bhinnamantro 'parāddhaś ca hīnaśaktiḥ kathaṃ hy aham |

kiṣkindhāṃ prāpya jīveyam anātha iva durbalaḥ ||

Translation

With my counsel shattered, my fault already committed, and my strength gone—how indeed could I live on after reaching Kiṣkindhā, weak as one without a protector?

Context

'My alternate strategy has failed. I have already made a mistake (by announcing my plan). My advisors are holding different views. I am powerless. How can a weakling, an orphan like me live in Kishkinda?

Characters & Entities

• Angada
• Kiṣkindhā
• Sugrīva (implied as authority there)

FAQs

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

Dharma is linked to responsibility for one’s mission; failure and internal division (bhinnamantra) lead to moral and practical collapse, showing why unity and truthful counsel are essential.

What is the narrative situation?

Angada believes the group has failed Rāma’s task and fears returning to Kiṣkindhā where Sugrīva may punish them; he expresses helplessness and loss of protection.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Humility and self-scrutiny—recognizing error—though expressed through despair.