Shloka 5.2.43

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

Devanagari script

न हि शक्यं क्वचित् स्थातुमविज्ञातेन राक्षसैः।अपि राक्षसरूपेण किमुतान्येन केनचित्।।।।

Transliteration

na hi śakyaṃ kvacit sthātum avijñātena rākṣasaiḥ | api rākṣasarūpeṇa kim utānyena kenacit ||

Translation

It is not possible to remain anywhere here without being recognized by the rākṣasas—even if one assumes a rākṣasa form; how much less in any other guise.

Context

'It is difficult to stay with the demon anywhere here even in the disguise of a demon without being identified. It will not be possible to remain unidentified even by assuming any other form.

Characters & Entities

• Hanuman
• Rakshasas (demons)
• Disguise/Forms (rūpa)

FAQs

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

Dharma requires realism: right action is not fantasy; one must acknowledge the opponent’s vigilance and choose methods that minimize harm and maximize truthful success.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanumān assesses the difficulty of remaining undetected in Laṅkā, even with disguise, because the rākṣasas are alert and suspicious.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Pragmatic intelligence: he does not overtrust tricks; he plans with respect for the enemy’s capabilities.