Shloka 6.68.17

कुम्भकर्णवधश्रवणेन रावणविलापः (Ravana’s Lament on Hearing of Kumbhakarna’s Slaying)

Devanagari script

राज्येननास्तिमेकार्यंकिंकरिष्यामिसीतया ।कुम्भकर्णविहीनस्यजीवितेनास्तिमेमतिः ।।।।

Transliteration

dhruvam adyaiva saṃhṛṣṭā labdhalakṣāḥ plavaṅgamāḥ |

ārokṣyantīha durgāṇi laṅkādvārāṇi sarvaśaḥ ||

Translation

Surely, this very day the plavaṅgamas—rejoicing in their gained opportunity—will swarm from every side, climbing upon Laṅkā’s ramparts and gates.

Context

"I have no purpose with the kingdom. What will I do with Sita? I have lost my life and mind with Kumbhakarna's death."

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Kumbhakarṇa
• Plavaṅgamas (Vānaras)
• Laṅkā
• Durgas (forts)
• Gates of Laṅkā

FAQs

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

It reflects how Adharma weakens a polity from within: when unjust leadership loses its protectors, even strong walls cannot secure it.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa foresees the immediate tactical consequence of Kumbhakarṇa’s death: the vānaras will press the attack on Laṅkā’s defenses.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

The vānaras’ courage and unity in a righteous cause—acting decisively when opportunity arises.