Shloka 6.53.19

युद्धकाण्डे त्रिपञ्चाशः सर्गः — धूम्राक्षवधश्रवणं, वज्रदंष्ट्रप्रेषणं, अङ्गद-राक्षसयुद्धम् (Ravana Dispatches Vajradamshtra; Portents and Angada’s Assault)

Devanagari script

निष्पतन्तोमहोत्साहोभिन्नदेहशिरोधराः ।रुधिरोक्षितसर्वाङ्गान्यपतन्थरणीतले ।।।।

Transliteration

niṣpatanto mahotsāhā bhinnadehaśirodharāḥ |

rudhirokṣitasarvāṅgā nyapatan dharaṇītale ||

Translation

Surging forward with great ardor for battle, they fell upon the ground—bodies shattered, heads severed, and every limb drenched in blood.

Context

Proceeding Further, very eager to fight they fell on the ground with their bodies broken, heads severed, and all limbs bathed in blood.

FAQs

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

The verse underscores the grave cost of adharma-driven warfare: valor without righteous restraint culminates in destruction. It reminds readers that true dharma values life and measured conduct, even amid conflict.

What is the narrative situation?

A brutal phase of the Laṅkā war is being described, where combatants charge forward and are cut down, falling mutilated and bloodied on the battlefield.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Battle-courage (śaurya/utsāha) is depicted, but the imagery also cautions that courage alone is not sufficient unless guided by dharma.