Shloka 6.31.7

मायाशिरोप्रदर्शनम् (The Display of the Illusory Head of Rāma)

Devanagari script

विद्युज्जिह्वंचमायाज्ञमब्रवीद्राक्षसाधिपः ।मोहयिष्यावहेसीतांमाययाजनकात्मजाम् ।।।।

Transliteration

rāvaṇaś cāpi cikṣepa bhasvaraṃ kārmukaṃ mahat |

triṣu lokeṣu vikhyātaṃ sītām idam uvāca ha ||

Translation

Rāvaṇa too cast down the great, radiant bow—famed in the three worlds—and then spoke these words to Sītā.

Context

Rakshasa king Ravana said to Vidyujihvam who knew conjuring tricks, "We will cheat Sita, daughter of Janaka by a trick."

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Sītā
• bow (kārmuka)
• three worlds (trailokya)

FAQs

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

It shows how authority can stage ‘evidence’ to force consent—an ethical violation. Dharma rejects coercion and insists on truth and rightful conduct.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa adds the famed bow to the display, strengthening the illusion, and prepares to pressure Sītā verbally.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s integrity is foregrounded by the need for intimidation; her refusal cannot be overcome by ordinary persuasion.