Shloka 6.36.5

माल्यवानुपदेशः—रावणक्रोधः तथा लङ्काद्वाररक्षा-व्यवस्था (Malyavan’s Counsel, Ravana’s Anger, and the Fortification of Lanka)

Devanagari script

रक्षसामीश्वरंमांचदेवानांचभयङ्करम् ।हीनंमांमन्यसेकेनह्यहीनंसर्वविक्रमैः ।।।।

Transliteration

ānīya ca vanāt sītāṃ padmahīnām iva śriyam | kimarthaṃ pratidāsyāmi rāghavasya bhayād aham || 6.36.8 ||

Translation

Having brought Sītā from the forest—like Śrī bereft of her lotus—why should I give her back out of fear of Rāghava?

Context

"The Lord of Rakshasas is a terror to all including the Devas and am endowed with all kinds of prowess and efficiency. Why do you think I am deficient?"

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Śrī/Lakṣmī
• lotus (padma)
• Rāghava (Rāma)
• forest (vana)

FAQs

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

Dharma condemns the wrongful taking of another’s spouse; returning Sītā is the righteous act, but Rāvaṇa rejects it due to desire and pride.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa justifies keeping Sītā and refuses the idea of returning her, dismissing fear of Rāma.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s sanctity and inviolability are implied; the verse highlights the vice of kāma (desire) overpowering moral restraint.