Shloka 6.106.4

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

Devanagari script

किमर्थंमामवज्ञायमच्छन्दमनवेक्ष्य च ।त्वयाशत्रुसमक्षंमेरथोऽयमपवाहितः ।।।।

Transliteration

kimarthaṃ mām avajñāya macchandam anavekṣya ca | tvayā śatrusamakṣaṃ me ratho 'yam apavāhitaḥ ||

Translation

For what reason, scorning me and disregarding my wish, have you driven my chariot away—right before the enemy?

Context

Not knowing my opinion, for what reason have you removed my chariot in the presence of my enemy, belittling me?

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Sārathi (charioteer)
• enemy (implicitly Rāma)

FAQs

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

It frames a battlefield ethic of honor and accountability: actions affecting a leader’s public standing should not be taken without consent; dharma involves respecting authority and situational propriety.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa confronts his charioteer for withdrawing the chariot while facing the enemy, interpreting it as humiliation.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Respect for mandate and clarity of communication—acting after considering the leader’s intent (chanda).