Shloka 6.106.22

रावण-सारथि-संवादः (Ravana and the Charioteer: Counsel, Omens, and Battlefield Conduct)

Devanagari script

स्वेच्छयान मयावीररथोऽयमपवाहितः ।भर्तृस्नेहपरीतेनमयेदंयत्कृतंप्रभो ।।।।

Transliteration

svecchayā na mayā vīra ratho 'yam apavāhitaḥ |

bhartṛ-sneha-parītena mayedaṃ yat kṛtaṃ prabho ||

Translation

O hero, my lord—this chariot was not drawn back by me on mere whim; what I did was done out of devotion and affection for my master.

Context

"Heroic Lord! I have not brought back this chariot independently (without thinking). I have acted in friendliness to the master (to give rest) not otherwise."

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• charioteer (sārathi/sūta)
• chariot (ratha)

FAQs

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

Dharma weighs intention (bhāva) alongside action; faithful service aims at the master’s welfare, not personal caprice.

What is the narrative situation?

The charioteer clarifies that the withdrawal was motivated by loyal concern, not disobedience or fear.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Bhakti-like fidelity in service—steadfast loyalty expressed through protective judgment.