Shloka 5.16.8

षोडशः सर्गः (Sarga 16): Hanumān’s Recognition of Sītā and Renewed Lament

Devanagari script

विराधश्च हतः सङ्ख्ये राक्षसो भीमविक्रमः।वने रामेण विक्रम्य महेन्द्रेणेव शम्बरः।।5.16.8।।

Transliteration

virādhaś ca hataḥ saṅkhye rākṣaso bhīmavikramaḥ |

vane rāmeṇa vikramya mahendreṇeva śambaraḥ ||5.16.8||

Translation

And Virādha, the rākṣasa of dreadful prowess, was slain in battle in the forest by Rāma—just as Śambara was overcome by great Indra.

Context

"Rama killed Viradha of fearsome valour in the forest like Sambara by Indra.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Virādha
• Indra (Mahendra)
• Śambara
• Forest (Daṇḍaka context implied)

FAQs

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

Dharma is the protection of the innocent and the removal of violent oppression: Rāma’s righteous strength destroys threats that violate moral order.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanumān continues building Sītā’s confidence by citing Rāma’s past triumphs over formidable rākṣasas.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Heroic steadfastness (vīrya) under Dharma: Rāma’s valor is likened to Indra’s, presenting him as a restorer of order.