Shloka 6.58.18

प्रहस्तवधः (The Slaying of Prahasta)

Devanagari script

वानराराक्षसाःक्रुद्धावीरमार्गमनुव्रताः ।।।।विवृत्तनयनाःक्रूराश्चक्रुःकर्माण्यभीतवत् ।

Transliteration

vānarārākṣasāḥ kruddhā vīramārgam anuvratāḥ | vivṛttanayanāḥ krūrāś cakruḥ karmāṇy abhītavat ||

Translation

Enraged and treading the hero’s path, Vānaras and Rākṣasas—eyes rolling, fierce in aspect—performed their war-deeds without fear.

Context

Following the path of heroes and infuriated, their eyes reeling, the vanaras and rakshasas carried out their deeds without fear.

Characters & Entities

• Vānaras
• Rākṣasas

FAQs

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

The verse distinguishes fearlessness from righteousness: bravery is ethically meaningful only when placed in service of dharma and satya, not merely driven by rage.

What is the narrative situation?

Both sides fight intensely and fearlessly, showing the ferocity of the ongoing combat.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Vīrya (valor) and abhaya (fearlessness), though portrayed with the warning sign of uncontrolled anger.