Shloka 5.12.13

द्वादशः सर्गः — हनूमतः अन्तःपुरविचयः (Hanuman’s Search Through Ravana’s Inner Apartments)

Devanagari script

आपानशाला विचितास्तथा पुष्पगृहाणि च।।5.12.12।।चित्रशालाश्च विचिता भूयः क्रीडागृहाणि च।निष्कुटान्तररथ्याश्च विमानानि च सर्वशः।।5.12.13।।

Transliteration

iti sañcintya bhūyo'pi vicetum upacakrame |

bhūmīgṛhāṃś caityagṛhān gṛhātigṛhakān api ||

Translation

Having reflected thus, he began once more to search—through underground chambers, shrine-halls, and even houses within houses.

Context

'I have searched the banquet halls, bowers of creepers, picture galleries and gymnasiums. I have searched everywhere through the paths of gardens and mansions, harems and the Pushpaka chariot also.

Characters & Entities

• Hanumān
• Rāvaṇa’s palace complex (implicit)

FAQs

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

Dharma is persistence guided by reflection: after assessing what has been done, Hanumān renews effort in remaining, harder-to-reach places.

What is the narrative situation?

The search expands from obvious luxurious chambers to concealed and sacred spaces—basements and shrine-halls—where Sītā might be hidden.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Prudence and perseverance—thinking, then acting again with greater thoroughness.