Shloka 5.2.54

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

Devanagari script

काञ्चनानि च चित्राणि तोरणानि च रक्षसाम्।लङ्कामुद्योतयामासुः सर्वतः समलङ्कृताम्।।।।

Transliteration

kāñcanāni ca citrāṇi toraṇāni ca rakṣasām | laṅkām udyotayāmāsuḥ sarvataḥ samalaṅkṛtām ||

Translation

The rākṣasas’ archways—golden and richly variegated—cast their light everywhere, making Laṅkā, adorned on all sides, shine.

Context

The golden archways of the demon were colourful. They illuminated the well decorated Lanka from all sides.

Characters & Entities

• Lanka
• Rākṣasas (demons)

FAQs

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

The verse contrasts outward splendor with implied inner moral peril: dazzling power and luxury can mask adharma. In the Ramayana’s ethical frame, one must judge by righteousness, not mere brilliance.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanuman, having reached Lanka, observes the city’s fortified and ornamented entrances, radiant with golden toranas.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Hanuman’s discernment and steadiness: he observes magnificence without being distracted from his dharmic mission—finding Sita.