Shloka 5.54.45

लङ्कादाहः — The Burning of Lanka (Catuḥpañcāśaḥ Sargaḥ)

Devanagari script

स राक्षसांस्तान्सुबहूंश्च हत्वा वनं च भङ्क्त्वा बहुपादपं तत्।विसृज्य रक्षोभवनेषु चाग्निं जगाम रामं मनसा महात्मा।।।।

Transliteration

bhaṅktvā vanaṃ pādaparatnasaṅkulaṃ hatvā tu rakṣāṃsi mahānti saṃyuge | dagdhvā purīṃ tāṃ gṛharatnamālinīṃ tasthau hanūmān pavanātmajaḥ kapiḥ ||

Translation

After shattering the grove rich with splendid trees, slaying mighty rākṣasas in battle, and burning that city adorned with rows of magnificent houses, Hanumān—the Wind-god’s son—stood firm.

Context

Great Hanuman, sought Rama's presence in his mind after killing many demons, breaking down many trees of the garden, and setting fire to the mansions of demons.

Characters & Entities

• Hanuman
• Vayu (Wind-god)
• Rakshasas
• Lanka (implied by 'city')

FAQs

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

Dharma is presented as resolute service to a righteous cause: force is used as a measured instrument against adharma (Rakshasa aggression) to advance Rama’s quest, not for personal gain.

What is the narrative situation?

The verse summarizes Hanuman’s completed acts in Lanka—destroying the grove, defeating Rakshasas, and burning parts of the city—after which he pauses, steady and unshaken.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Steadfastness and composure after intense action: strength guided by purpose, not intoxicated by violence.