Shloka 6.16.26

विभीषणोपदेशे रावणस्य परुषवाक्यम् (Ravana’s Harsh Reply to Vibhishana’s Counsel)

Devanagari script

तन्मर्षयतुयच्चोक्तंगुरुत्वाद्धितमिच्छता ।।6.16.25।।अत्मानंसर्वथारक्षपुरींचेमांसराक्षसाम् ।स्वस्तितेऽस्तुगमिष्यामिसुखीभवमयाविना ।।6.16.26।।

Transliteration

pradhānaṃ sādhanaṃ vaidyaṃ dharmaśīlaṃ ca rākṣasaḥ |

jñātayo hy avamanyante śūraṃ paribhavanti ca ||

Translation

O Rākṣasa, even if a chief is a foremost support—capable, learned, and devoted to dharma—indeed even if he is heroic, his own relatives may still slight him and treat him with contempt.

Context

"Since you are an elderly one, I desired to tender good advice and spoke these words. I may be excused. You protect all these Rakshasas, this capital city and yourself after I depart. Let you be auspicious and be happy."

Characters & Entities

• Vibhīṣaṇa
• Rāvaṇa
• rākṣasas (as a group)

FAQs

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

Dharma in leadership is not validated by popularity; the verse teaches steadiness in righteousness even when one faces disrespect—even from one’s own people.

What is the narrative situation?

Vibhīṣaṇa continues warning Rāvaṇa that internal circles can undermine a ruler, so Rāvaṇa should listen to dharmic counsel rather than flattery.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Forthright integrity and commitment to dharma over social approval.