Shloka 5.18.26

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

Devanagari script

अवेक्षमाणस्तु ततो ददर्श कपिकुञ्जरः।रूपयौवनसम्पन्ना रावणस्य वरस्त्रियः।।5.18.26।।

Transliteration

taṃ patraviṭape līnaḥ patrapuṣpaghanāvṛtaḥ |

samīpam iva saṅkrāntaṃ nidhyātum upacakrame || 5.18.25 ||

Translation

Hidden on a leafy bough, thickly screened by leaves and blossoms, he began to scrutinize him, who seemed to have come very near.

Context

The leader of the monkeys started gazing at the chief wives of Ravana endowed with youth and beauty৷৷

Characters & Entities

• Hanumān
• Rāvaṇa
• tree branch (viṭapa)
• leaves and flowers

FAQs

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

Dharma in action here is disciplined vigilance: righteous aims require careful assessment and non-reckless conduct.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanumān remains concealed and closely examines the approaching figure to confirm identity.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Prudence (viveka) and stealth guided by purpose—Hanumān’s strategic restraint.