Shloka 5.6.38

राक्षसेन्द्रनिवेशनविचारः (Survey of Ravana’s Residence and Lanka’s Inner Quarters)

Devanagari script

स मन्दरगिरिप्रख्यं मयूरस्थानसङ्कुलम्।।।।ध्वजयष्टिभिराकीर्णं ददर्श भवनोत्तमम्।अनेकरत्नसङ्कीर्णं निधिजालं समन्ततः।।।।धीरनिष्ठितकर्मान्तं गृहं भूतपतेरिव।

Transliteration

sa mandaragiriprakhyaṁ mayūrasthānasaṅkulam || 5.6.38 ||

dhvajayaṣṭibhir ākīrṇaṁ dadarśa bhavanottamam |

Translation

He saw a superb mansion, comparable to Mount Mandara—crowded with places where peacocks gathered, and filled everywhere with flagstaffs.

Context

Comparable to mount Mandara, it was crowded with peacocks, set with flag staffs fixed all over, magnificent mansions built by skilled craftsmen with great efforts, decked with gems of several kinds, rich with treasures comparable to Kailasa, the home of Siva, the Lord of all beings.

Characters & Entities

• Hanuman
• Mount Mandara
• Peacocks
• Ravana (contextual, as palace owner)

FAQs

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

Dharma appears as truthful witnessing and discernment: splendor is acknowledged accurately, yet not mistaken for moral worth; Hanuman’s duty is to see clearly and proceed rightly.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanuman observes the architectural magnificence and ceremonial markers (flags) in Ravana’s palace complex.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Clear perception and steadiness: he registers details that matter for understanding the enemy’s strength and setting.