Shloka 17
शार्दूलचरवृत्तान्तः
Saardula’s Spy-Report on Rama’s Camp and the Vanara Host
कीदृशा: किंप्रभा: सौम्यवानरायेदुरासदाः ।कस्यपुत्राश्चपौत्राश्चतत्त्वमाख्याहिराक्षस:।। 6.30.17।।
kīdṛśāḥ kiṃprabhāḥ saumya vānarā ye durāsadāḥ | kasya putrāś ca pautrāś ca tattvam ākhyāhi rākṣasaḥ ||6.30.17||
«Doux ami, quels sont ces Vānaras qu’il est si difficile d’affronter—quelle est leur force et leur éclat ? De qui sont-ils fils et petits-fils ? Dis-m’en la vérité.»
"Likewise knowing their strengths and weaknesses from you I wish to know what to do. It is essential to know their numbers and strength before the war."
FAQs
Satya (truth) is explicitly invoked: accurate knowledge and truthful reporting are demanded as a basis for action.
Rāvaṇa presses Śārdūla for detailed intelligence: the nature, power, and lineage of the formidable Vānara leaders.
Truth-seeking and accountability in counsel: the king demands precise, factual assessment rather than vague praise or fear.