Shloka 6.89.11

इन्द्रजित्–लक्ष्मणयोर् घोरः शरयुद्धः (Indrajit and Lakshmana’s Fierce Exchange of Arrows)

Devanagari script

स्मृतिर्वानास्तितेमन्येव्यक्तंवायमसादनम् ।गन्तुमिच्छसियस्मात्त्वमंधर्षयितुमिच्छसि ।।6.89.11।।

Transliteration

tasya jyātalanirghoṣaṃ sa śrutvā rākṣasādhipaḥ |

vivarṇavadano bhūtvā lakṣmaṇaṃ samudaikṣata ||6.89.2||

Translation

Hearing the sharp twang of Lakṣmaṇa’s bowstring, the lord of the rākṣasas turned pale and fixed his gaze upon Lakṣmaṇa.

Context

"Knowing my valour, you have come. Have you lost memory or do you desire to go to Yama's abode? Tell me."

Characters & Entities

• Lakṣmaṇa
• Indrajit (rākṣasādhipa)

FAQs

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

Dharma here aligns with kṣatriya-dharma: a righteous warrior’s preparedness and resolve can morally deter adharma-driven aggression. The verse highlights how disciplined strength can check unrighteous power.

What is the narrative situation?

On the battlefield, Indrajit hears Lakṣmaṇa’s bowstring and is shaken—his face turns pale—then he looks directly at Lakṣmaṇa, recognizing the threat.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Lakṣmaṇa’s steadiness and martial readiness (dhairya and vīrya), conveyed indirectly through the formidable sound of his bow.