Shloka 5.6.5

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

Devanagari script

गजास्थितैर्महामात्रैः शूरैश्च विगतश्रमैः।उपस्थितमसंहार्यैः र्हयैः स्यन्दनयायिभिः।।।।

Transliteration

siṃhavyāghratanutrāṇair dāntakāñcanarājataiḥ |

ghoṣavadbhir vicitraiś ca sadā vicaritaṃ rathaiḥ ||

Translation

There were marvelous chariots constantly moving about—covered with lion- and tiger-skins, inlaid with ivory, gold, and silver, and ringing with sound.

Context

(He saw) archways guarded by riders mounted on majestic elephants and unwearied riders of chariots drawn by horses of irresistible speed kept ready.

Characters & Entities

• Hanumān
• Laṅkā (implied setting)
• chariots (ratha)
• lion-skin
• tiger-skin
• ivory
• gold
• silver

FAQs

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

It indirectly contrasts power and ornament with dharma: material grandeur and military display do not themselves establish righteousness.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanumān continues observing Laṅkā’s royal-military environment while searching for Sītā.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Hanumān’s steadiness—he remains focused on his mission despite distracting splendor.