Shloka 6.58.24

प्रहस्तवधः (The Slaying of Prahasta)

Devanagari script

अमृष्यमाणस्तत्कर्मप्रहस्तोरथमाश्रितः ।।।।चकारकदनंघोरंधनुष्पाणिर्वनौकसाम् ।

Transliteration

amṛṣyamāṇas tat-karma prahasto ratham āśritaḥ | cakāra kadanaṃ ghoraṃ dhanuṣ-pāṇir vanaukasām ||

Translation

Unable to endure that deed, Prahasta mounted his chariot; bow in hand, he unleashed dreadful slaughter among the forest-dwellers—the vānaras.

Context

Then intolerant of the exploit, Prahastha got on to the chariot with bow in hand and caused dreadful havoc among the monkeys.

Characters & Entities

• Prahasta
• chariot
• bow
• vānaras (vanaukasaḥ)

FAQs

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

It warns how ego-injury and intolerance can fuel destructive action; dharma requires restraint and right intention, even in war.

What is the narrative situation?

After seeing his side harmed, Prahasta enters more aggressively, mounting his chariot and attacking the vānaras with archery.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Primarily a negative trait is highlighted: amṛṣā (intolerance/resentment) that escalates violence.