Shloka 6.51.27

धूम्राक्षप्रेषणम् (The Dispatch of Dhūmrākṣa)

Devanagari script

रथैःकवचिनस्त्वन्येध्वजैश्चसमलङ्कृतैः ।सुवर्णजालविहितैःखरैश्चविविधाननैः ।।6.51.26।।हयैःपरमशीघ्रैश्चगजैश्चैवमदोत्कटैः ।निर्ययुर्नैरृतव्याघ्राव्याघ्राइवदुरासदाः ।।6.51.27।।

Transliteration

sa niryāto mahā-vīryo dhūmrākṣo rākṣasair vṛtaḥ |

prahasan paścima-dvāraṃ hanumān yatra yūthapaḥ ||6.51.29||

Translation

Then the great warrior Dhūmrākṣa set out, surrounded by rākṣasas, laughing as he advanced toward the western gate—where Hanumān, leader of the vānaras, stood posted.

Context

And others collected together holding shields, fearless like tigers, frightful in appearance, mounted on fast horses, chariots yoked to donkeys of different kinds covered with gold mesh, on maddened elephants Set out.

Characters & Entities

• Dhūmrākṣa
• Hanumān
• Western gate (paścima-dvāra)
• Rākṣasas

FAQs

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

The verse contrasts arrogance (mocking laughter before battle) with steadfast duty (Hanumān guarding his post); dharma favors vigilant protection and humility over pride.

What is the narrative situation?

Dhumrākṣa leads a sortie toward the western gate of Laṅkā, where Hanumān is stationed.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Hanumān’s vigilance and steadfast responsibility as a commander (yūthapa), implicitly set against Dhumrākṣa’s overconfidence.