रावण-सारथि-संवादः (Ravana and the Charioteer: Counsel, Omens, and Battlefield Conduct)
श्रमंतवावगच्छामिमहतारणकर्मणा ।न हितेवीर्यसौमुख्यंप्रकर्षंवोपधारये ।।।।
śramaṃ tavāvagacchāmi mahatā raṇa-karmaṇā | na hite vīrya-saumukhyaṃ prakarṣaṃ vopadhāraye ||
I perceive your weariness from the great toil of battle; and in this moment I do not see your valor displaying its former advantage or superiority.
"Great Ravana! After the strenuous task in the battle, there was no exhibition of your valour, and I did not cognize any superiority in your action."
Dharma includes sober assessment: honest recognition of fatigue and diminished effectiveness prevents reckless harm and supports responsible leadership.
The charioteer explains that Rāvaṇa is worn down and not currently displaying decisive superiority in battle, implying withdrawal is prudent.
Truthful, welfare-driven counsel—speaking difficult facts for the leader’s protection.