Shloka 6.98.32

महोदरवधः (The Slaying of Mahodara)

Devanagari script

तुशूरोमहावेगोवीर्यश्लाघीमहोदरः ।।6.98.32।।महाचर्मणितंखडगंपातयामासदुर्मतिः ।

Transliteration

tu śūro mahāvego vīryaślāghī mahodaraḥ |

mahācarmaṇi taṃ khaḍgaṃ pātayāmāsa durmatiḥ ||6.98.32||

Translation

But Mahodara—valiant, swift, and boastful of his prowess, evil in counsel—brought his sword down upon Sugrīva’s great shield.

Context

Mahodara, a warrior, evil minded one, endowed with great speed, hurled the sword on the shield of Sugriva.

Characters & Entities

• Mahodara
• Sugrīva (implied as bearer of shield)
• Sword (khaḍga)
• Shield (mahācarma)

FAQs

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

Power and bravery without right judgment (mati) becomes ethically compromised; the verse contrasts valor with inner moral orientation, hinting that adharma distorts heroism.

What is the narrative situation?

Mahodara lands a forceful blow, striking Sugrīva’s shield with his sword.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sugrīva’s defensive steadiness is implied—he withstands the blow with his shield, maintaining composure in combat.