Shloka 6.52.17

धूम्राक्षवधः (The Slaying of Dhumrākṣa)

Devanagari script

वानरैरापतन्तस्तेवेगितावेगवत्तरैः ।मुष्टिभिश्चरणैर्दन्स्सैःपादपैश्चावपोथिता ।।6.52.17।।

Transliteration

teṣāṃ sutumulaṃ yuddhaṃ sañjajñe kapirakṣasām | anyonyaṃ pādapair ghoraṃ nighnatāṃ śūlamudgaraiḥ ||6.52.2||

Translation

A most tumultuous battle arose between the Vanaras and the Rakshasas, as they struck one another fiercely—Vanaras with dreadful trees, and Rakshasas with tridents and clubs.

Context

Endowed with speed, the Vanaras also fell on the Rakshasas at greater speed, knocking them down with fists, feet, teeth and even trees.

Characters & Entities

• Vānara (Vanaras)
• Rākṣasa (Rakshasas)

FAQs

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

The verse frames the conflict as a regulated battlefield encounter (yuddha), implying yuddha-dharma: combat is pursued openly with recognized weapons, not through deceit against the helpless.

What is the narrative situation?

The battle intensifies in Laṅkā as Vanara forces and Rakshasa forces clash at close quarters, using improvised weapons (trees) and martial weapons (tridents, clubs).

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Collective valor and steadfastness—both sides press forward in direct confrontation, highlighting courage under chaos.