Shloka 5.2.28

लङ्कादर्शनं तथा रात्रौ सूक्ष्मरूपेण प्रवेशोपायचिन्तनम् (Vision of Lanka and Strategy for Nocturnal Entry)

Devanagari script

इमां तु विषमां दुर्गां लङ्कां रावणपालिताम्।प्राप्यापि स महाबाहुः किं करिष्यति राघवः।।।।

Transliteration

imāṃ tu viṣamāṃ durgāṃ laṅkāṃ rāvaṇapālitām | prāpyāpi sa mahābāhuḥ kiṃ kariṣyati rāghavaḥ ||

Translation

Even if mighty-armed Rāghava were to reach this perilous, impregnable Laṅkā, guarded under Rāvaṇa’s rule—what could he accomplish here?

Context

'What will Rama the mighty armed hero do even after reaching this formidable city of Lanka ruled by Ravana?

Characters & Entities

• Lanka
• Ravana
• Rama (Rāghava)

FAQs

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

Truthful appraisal (satya) in service of dharma: devotion must be paired with realism, so that righteous goals are pursued wisely.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanuman contemplates the formidable defenses of Lanka and the challenge even Rama would face if relying on direct entry and battle.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Responsible counsel-in-thought: Hanuman’s loyalty includes anticipating obstacles and planning to reduce harm and risk.