Shloka 5.10.40

रावणान्तःपुरे शयनदर्शनम् (Hanumān Observes Rāvaṇa’s Inner Apartments and Sleeping Court)

Devanagari script

काचिद्वंशं परिष्वज्य सुप्ता कमललोचना।रहः प्रियतमं गृह्य सकामेव च कामिनी।।।।

Transliteration

kācid vaṃśaṃ pariṣvajya suptā kamalalocanā |

rahaḥ priyatamaṃ gṛhya sakāmeva ca kāminī ||

Translation

One lotus-eyed woman slept clasping a vaṃśa, the bamboo flute, as though a lover in secret were holding her beloved, desire still upon her.

Context

Yet another lotus-eyed lady slept embracing a lute as if a lovelorn woman lay clasping her lover.

Characters & Entities

• Hanumān (implied observer)
• vaṃśa (bamboo flute)

FAQs

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

Dharma is reflected in the disciplined observer: even when confronted with erotic imagery, Hanumān remains truthful to his vow and mission, guarding mind and senses.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanumān continues scanning the palace interiors and sees a sleeping woman hugging a flute, described through a romantic simile.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Self-restraint (indriya-nigraha) and unwavering commitment to duty (dharma-niṣṭhā).