Shloka 6.58.54

प्रहस्तवधः (The Slaying of Prahasta)

Devanagari script

तस्ययुद्धाभिकामस्यमृथेमुसलयोधिन ।प्रहस्तस्यशिलांनीलोमूर्ध्नितूर्णमपातयत् ।।।।

Transliteration

tasya yuddhābhikāmasya mṛdhe musala-yodhinaḥ |

prahastasya śilāṁ nīlo mūrdhni tūrṇam apātayat ||6.58.54||

Translation

As Prahasta, the mallet-fighter, pressed eagerly for battle, Nīla swiftly brought the rock down upon his head.

Context

Fighting with the mallet, Neela quickly dropped the rock on that Prahastha's forehead

Characters & Entities

• Nīla
• Prahasta
• rock (śilā)
• musala (mallet)

FAQs

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

In dharmic warfare, protecting one’s community may require decisive action; the verse underscores swift intervention to neutralize an imminent threat.

What is the narrative situation?

Nīla executes a rapid counterattack, dropping a heavy rock onto Prahasta’s head during close combat.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Naya (tactical judgment) and śaurya (bravery) are emphasized—Nīla chooses an effective, immediate measure.