Shloka 6.63.23

कुम्भकर्णोपदेशः — Kumbhakarna’s Counsel and War-Boast to Ravana

Devanagari script

मान्योगुरुवारिचार्यःकिमांत्वमनुशाससि ।किमेवंवाक्छ्रमंकृत्वाकालेयुक्तंविधीयताम् ।।6.63.23।।

Transliteration

mānyo gurur vāri cāryaḥ kimāṃ tvam anuśāsasi | kim evaṃ vākchramaṃ kṛtvā kāle yuktaṃ vidhīyatām ||6.63.23||

Translation

“You are worthy of honor, like a father or a teacher—why then do you instruct me so? Why this display of verbal cleverness? Let what is fitting for the moment be done.”

Context

"Why do you, who are worthy of respect, instruct me like a father or teacher? These words express your cleverness in speaking. It is time to do what is appropriate now. Follow what is to be done."

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa (Daśagrīva)
• Kumbhakarṇa

FAQs

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

The verse illustrates adharma through pride: dismissing wise counsel as mere rhetoric instead of evaluating its truth.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa responds angrily to Kumbhakarṇa, questioning his admonition and demanding immediate action.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Negatively, it highlights the absence of vinaya (humility) and the danger of ego-driven leadership.