Shloka 6.85.29

निकुम्भिला-यज्ञविघ्नः — Vibhishana’s Counsel and Lakshmana’s March to Nikumbhila

Devanagari script

सोऽभिवाद्यगुरोःपादौकृत्वाचापिप्रदक्षिणम् ।निकुम्भिलामभिययौचैत्यंरावणिपालितम् ।।6.85.29।।

Transliteration

so 'bhivādya guroḥ pādau kṛtvā cāpi pradakṣiṇam |

nikumbhilām abhiyayau caityaṃ rāvaṇi-pālitam ||6.85.29||

Translation

After saluting the feet of his revered elder and circumambulating him in respect, he proceeded toward Nikumbhilā—the sanctuary associated with and guarded by Rāvaṇa’s son.

Context

Saluting the feet of the eldest brother and going round him, Laksmana proceeded to Nikumbhila sanctuary ruled by Ravana.

Characters & Entities

• Lakṣmaṇa
• Rāma (revered elder/brother)
• Nikumbhilā
• caitya (sanctuary/shrine)
• Rāvaṇi (Indrajit/Meghanāda)

FAQs

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

Dharma is maryādā—right conduct even in crisis: honoring elders/guru before undertaking a dangerous duty.

What is the narrative situation?

Lakṣmaṇa formally pays respect to Rāma and then advances toward Nikumbhilā, where the enemy’s sacred/strategic rite is connected.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Humility and reverence—strength grounded in disciplined tradition.