Shloka 6.40.12

सुवेलारोहणं रावण-सुग्रीव-नियुद्धम् (Ascent of Suvela and the Ravana–Sugriva Duel)

Devanagari script

समीक्ष्यतूर्णमायान्तमबभाषेनिशाचरः ।सुग्रीवस्त्वपरोक्षम् मेहीनग्रीवोभविष्यसि ।।।।

Transliteration

samīkṣya tūrṇam āyāntam ababhāṣe niśācaraḥ |

sugrīvas tv aparokṣaṃ me hīnagrīvo bhaviṣyasi ||

Translation

Seeing Sugrīva rushing toward him, the night-roaming Rākṣasa spoke: “Sugrīva, now that you stand before my very eyes, you shall be made neckless.”

Context

Observing Sugriva coming towards him, Ravana said, "When you were not seen by me you had a neck. I will make you neckless."

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Sugrīva
• Niśācara (rākṣasa epithet)

FAQs

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

The verse highlights the adharma-pattern of intimidation and cruelty: instead of reason or justice, the rākṣasa responds with violent threat.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa notices Sugrīva’s attack and issues a direct threat as the confrontation escalates into close combat.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

By contrast, Sugrīva’s courage is implied; Rāvaṇa’s trait shown is arrogance and violent wrath.