Shloka 6.30.18

शार्दूलचरवृत्तान्तः (Saardula’s Spy-Report on Rama’s Camp and the Vanara Host)

Devanagari script

तथात्रप्रतिपत्स्यामिज्ञात्वातेषांबलाबलम् ।अवश्यंबलसङ् ख्यानंकर्तव्यंयुद्धमिच्छताम् ।।6.30.18।।

Transliteration

kīdṛśāḥ kiṃprabhāḥ saumya vānarā ye durāsadāḥ | kasya putrāś ca pautrāś ca tattvam ākhyāhi rākṣasaḥ ||6.30.17||

Translation

“Gentle one, what are those hard-to-face Vānara warriors like—what is their power and splendor? Whose sons and grandsons are they? Tell me the truth.”

Context

"Likewise knowing their strengths and weaknesses from you I wish to know what to do. It is essential to know their numbers and strength before the war."

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Śārdūla
• Vānaras

FAQs

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

Satya (truth) is explicitly invoked: accurate knowledge and truthful reporting are demanded as a basis for action.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa presses Śārdūla for detailed intelligence: the nature, power, and lineage of the formidable Vānara leaders.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Truth-seeking and accountability in counsel: the king demands precise, factual assessment rather than vague praise or fear.