Shloka 6.6.7
रावणस्य मन्त्रविचारः — Ravana’s Council on Strategy
मन्त्रिभिर्हितसंयुक्तैस्समर्थैर्मन्त्रनिर्णये ।।6.6.7।।मित्रैर्वापिसमानार्थैर्बान्धवैरपिवाधिकैः ।सहितोमन्त्रियित्वायःकर्मारम्भान्प्रवर्तयेत् ।।6.6.8।।दैवेचकुरुतेयत्नंतमाहुःपुरुषोत्तमम् ।
samudram ucchōṣayati vīryeṇa anyat karoti vā |
asmin evaṃ gate kārye viruddhe vānaraiḥ saha |
hitaṃ pure ca sainye ca sarvaṃ sammantrayatāṃ mama ||6.6.18-6.6.19||
By his prowess he may dry up the ocean—or accomplish some other extraordinary deed. Since matters have come to this, with the Vānaras as our adversaries, counsel me fully on what will be for the good of both the city and the army.
"He who decides, after deliberating with his well-wishers, with capable ministers of good counsel, relatives of common interest or friends before undertaking his task and tries with faith in god is said to be best among men."
Dharma in leadership includes realistic assessment of an opponent’s capability and prioritizing the welfare of citizens and soldiers through comprehensive, truth-oriented counsel.
With war imminent and the enemy alliance formed, Rāvaṇa urges his council to propose a plan that safeguards both Laṅkā and its forces.
Strategic foresight: anticipating extraordinary moves and planning for public and military welfare together.