Shloka 6.54.13

वज्रदंष्ट्रवधः — The Slaying of Vajradaṃṣṭra (Angada’s Duel)

Devanagari script

राक्षसान्भयवित्रस्तान्हन्यमानान् प्लवङ्गमैः ।।6.54.12।।दृष्टवासरोषताम्राक्षोवज्रदंष्ट्रःप्रतापवान् ।प्रविवेशधनुष्पाणिस्त्रासयन्हरिवाहिनीम् ।।6.54.13।।

Transliteration

trastāḥ sarve harigaṇāḥ śaraiḥ saṅkṛttakandarāḥ ||6.54.15||

aṅgadaṃ sampradhāvanti prajāpatim iva prajāḥ |

Translation

All the vānaras, terrified and with their bodies cut and torn by arrows, ran toward Aṅgada for refuge—like creatures hastening to Prajāpati.

Context

Struck by monkeys the Rakshasas were in fear. Seeing the Rakshasas Vajraddamshtra's eyes turned red in anger with bow in hand penetrating the Vanara troops terrifying them.

Characters & Entities

• Aṅgada
• harigaṇa (vānaras)
• Prajāpati

FAQs

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

Dharma is shown as protective leadership: in crisis, the community seeks shelter in a righteous and capable protector; the simile to Prajāpati frames Aṅgada as a guardian figure responsible for the welfare of his followers.

What is the narrative situation?

After Vajradaṃṣṭra’s fierce arrow-attack, the wounded and frightened vānaras retreat and cluster around Aṅgada for safety and guidance.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Aṅgada’s role as a dependable leader and refuge—steadiness that draws others in moments of fear.