Shloka 6.79.19

मकराक्षवधः (The Slaying of Makarākṣa)

Devanagari script

चतुर्दशसहस्राणिरक्षसांत्वत्पिता च यः ।त्रिशिरादूषणश्चापिदण्डकेनिहतामया ।।।।

Transliteration

katthase kiṃ vṛthā rakṣo bahūny asadṛśāni te |

na raṇeṣu śakyate jetuṃ vinā yuddhena vāg-bhalāt ||

Translation

Why do you boast so vainly, O Rākṣasa, speaking so many impossibilities? On the battlefield, victory is not won by the mere force of words—without true fighting.

Context

"In Dandaka, fourteen thousand Rakshasas, your father, Trisira, and also Dooshana were killed by me alone."

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Makarākṣa
• Rākṣasa

FAQs

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

Dharma values truth and deeds over empty speech: righteousness is demonstrated through disciplined action, not inflated claims.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma rebukes Makarākṣa’s taunting and challenges him to prove himself in actual combat.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Satya in conduct—integrity where words align with capability and responsibility.