Shloka 5.18.10

अष्टादशः सर्गः (Sarga 18): रावणस्य प्रमदावनप्रवेशः — Ravana’s entry into the women’s grove

Devanagari script

अङ्गनाशतमात्रं तु तं व्रजन्तमनुव्रजत्।महेन्द्रमिव पौलस्त्यं देवगन्धर्वयोषितः।।5.18.10।।

Transliteration

aṅganāśatamātraṃ tu taṃ vrajantam anuvrajat |

mahendram iva paulastyaṃ devagandharvayoṣitaḥ ||

Translation

As that Paulastya (Rāvaṇa) walked along, only a hundred women followed him—like Mahendra (Indra) attended by the women of gods and Gandharvas.

Context

Ravana, son of sage Paulasti, was followed by a hundred women, just as Indra is trailed by the females of gods and gandharvas.

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa (Paulastya)
• Mahendra (Indra)
• Devas
• Gandharvas
• Women attendants

FAQs

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

The verse invites ethical contrast: royal splendor and entourage do not equal Dharma; righteousness is measured by conduct, not display.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa approaches with an entourage of women, described in a simile comparing him to Indra’s retinue.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Primarily a cautionary theme rather than a virtue: worldly grandeur can mask unrighteous intent.