Shloka 5.11.23

रावणान्तःपुर-पानभूमि-विचयः (Hanumān’s Survey of Rāvaṇa’s Inner Palace and Banquet Hall)

Devanagari script

राजतेषु च कुम्भेषु जाम्बूनदमयेषु च।पानश्रेष्ठं तदा भूरि कपिस्तत्र ददर्श ह।।5.11.23।।

Transliteration

rājatēṣu ca kumbhēṣu jāmbūnadamayēṣu ca | pānaśrēṣṭhaṃ tadā bhūri kapistatra dadarśa ha ||

Translation

Then the monkey Hanumān saw there in abundance the finest of drinks, stored in vessels of silver and of pure gold.

Context

Hanuman saw the best of wines in large quantities kept in silver and pure gold pots.

Characters & Entities

• Hanuman
• Lanka
• Silver Vessels
• Gold Vessels

FAQs

What does the presence of gold and silver vessels indicate about Ravana's Lanka?

The description of vessels made of silver (rājatēṣu) and pure gold (jāmbūnadamayēṣu) underscores the immense material prosperity and sensory indulgence prevalent in Ravana's court, serving as a backdrop to the narrative of Sita's captivity.

Why is Hanuman observing these items?

Hanuman is searching through the private chambers and banquet halls of Ravana's palace to find Sita. While doing so, he witnesses the sheer luxury and decadence of the Rakshasa king's lifestyle.