Shloka 6.54.17

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

Devanagari script

वज्रदंष्ट्रोऽङ्गदश्चोभौसङ्गतौहरिराक्षसौ ।।6.54.17।।चेरतुःपरमक्रुद्धौहरिमत्तगजाविव ।

Transliteration

tato hari-gaṇān bhagnān dṛṣṭvā vāli-sutas tadā |

krodhena vajradaṃṣṭraṃ tam udīkṣantam udaikṣata ||6.54.16||

Translation

Then Vāli’s son, seeing the Hari ranks shattered, turned in anger to confront Vajradaṁṣṭra, who was glaring at them.

Context

Vajradamshtra and Angada both enraged and strode among Rakshasas and monkeys and fought like a lion and intoxicated elephant.

Characters & Entities

• Aṅgada
• Vāli
• Vajradaṃṣṭra
• Vānara troops

FAQs

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

Dharma here is protective leadership: a responsible warrior does not abandon his routed companions but confronts the cause of their suffering.

What is the narrative situation?

Aṅgada observes the Vānara forces being broken and steps forward to challenge Vajradaṃṣṭra directly.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Guardian-like courage—Aṅgada’s readiness to stand before danger for the sake of his troops.