Shloka 6.66.16

कुम्भकर्णप्रस्थानम् तथा अङ्गदप्रेरणा (Kumbhakarna’s sortie and Angada’s rallying of the Vanaras)

Devanagari script

तेस्थलानितदानिम्नंविवर्णमानाभयात् ।ऋक्षावृक्षान् समारूढाःकेचित्पर्वतमाश्रिताः ।।।।

Transliteration

te sthalāni tadā nimnaṃ vivarṇavadanā bhayāt | ṛkṣā vṛkṣān samārūḍhāḥ kecit parvatam āśritāḥ ||

Translation

Then, pale-faced with fear, they rushed to low-lying ground; some bears climbed up into trees, and some sought refuge in the mountains.

Context

Out of fear the vanaras rushed to plains with pale countenance, some climbed up mountains and bears climbed up trees.

Characters & Entities

• Vānara troops
• Ṛkṣa (bears—Jāmbavān’s bear-host implied as a group)
• Trees
• Mountains

FAQs

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

The verse illustrates भय (fear) as a destabilizing force; dharma-based leadership must restore steadiness and truthfulness of purpose amid panic.

What is the narrative situation?

The allied troops scatter for safety—some to low ground, some climbing trees, others taking shelter in mountains—showing battlefield disarray.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Caution/self-preservation is shown rather than virtue; it sets up the need for renewed courage and disciplined return to righteous action.