Shloka 6.35.6

माल्यवानुपदेशः — Malyavan’s Counsel, Portents in Laṅkā, and the Proposal of Alliance

Devanagari script

ततस्तुसुमहाप्राज्ञोमाल्यवान्नामराक्षसः ।।।।रावणस्यवचश्श्रुत्वामातुःपैतामहोऽब्रवीत् ।

Transliteration

sandadhāno hi kālena vigṛhṇañ cāribhiḥ saha |

sva-pakṣa-vardhanaṃ kurvan mahad aiśvaryam aśnute ||

Translation

For by forming alliances at the proper time, opposing foes when necessary with the aid of scouts, and strengthening his own side, a ruler attains great sovereignty.

Context

Then, Malyavan the maternal grandfather of Ravana, a very wise Rakshasa indeed said this on hearing Ravana's statement.

Characters & Entities

• enemies (ari)

FAQs

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

Dharma in governance includes timely judgment: peace and conflict are tools to be used ethically and appropriately for protection of the realm.

What is the narrative situation?

Mālyavān explains practical statecraft—when to ally and when to fight—aimed at steering Rāvaṇa away from reckless war.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Discernment (viveka): choosing the right course according to time and circumstance.