Shloka 6.98.29

महोदरवधः (The Slaying of Mahodara)

Devanagari script

थैव च महाखडगंचर्मणापतितंसह ।।6.98.29।।जग्राहवानरश्रेष्ठस्सुग्रीवोवेगवत्तरः।।

Transliteration

jagmatustau śramaṃ vīrau bāhuyuddhe paraṃtapau |

ajahāra tadā khaḍgam adūraparivartinam ||6.98.28||

rākṣasaś carmaṇā sārdhaṃ mahāvego mahodaraḥ |

Translation

The two heroes—scourges of their foes—grew weary in their wrestling combat. Then Mahodara, the swift Rākṣasa, seized a sword lying nearby, along with a shield.

Context

Likewise, Sugriva endowed with speed, a champion of Vanaras, took up a huge sword fallen down with a shield.

Characters & Entities

• Mahodara
• Rākṣasa
• Sword (khaḍga)
• Shield (carma)
• Sugrīva (implied as the opposing hero in this duel context)

FAQs

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

Even when exhausted, a warrior persists in duty; the verse highlights perseverance and readiness in kṣātra-dharma, where one must not abandon responsibility mid-conflict.

What is the narrative situation?

After intense hand-to-hand fighting, the combat escalates as Mahodara arms himself with sword and shield.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Determination under strain—continuing the fight despite fatigue, reflecting disciplined resolve.