Vamana Purana — Shukra's Curse on King Danda, Shloka 93

Shukra’s Curse on King Danda and Andhaka’s Challenge to Shiva

Devanagari script

इत्येवमुक्त्वा शकुनिमृषिर्वानरमब्रवीत् एह्येहि वानरास्माकं साहाय्यं कर्तुमर्हसि

Transliteration

ityevamuktvā śakunimṛṣirvānaramabravīt ehyehi vānarāsmākaṃ sāhāyyaṃ kartumarhasi

Translation

かく語り終えて、聖仙シャクニは猿に告げた。「来たれ、来たれ、猿よ。我らに助力をなすべし。」

Speakers

• Śakuni-ṛṣi addressing the Vānara (monkey)

Key Themes

• Sage-led mission
• Alliance with non-human beings (vānara)
• Hospitality and service (sāhāyya)
• Narrative transition from teaching to action

Verse Rasa (Emotional Flavour)

{ "primaryRasa": "vira", "secondaryRasa": "adbhuta", "rasaIntensity": 0, "emotionalArcPosition": "", "moodDescriptors": [] }

FAQs

What is the narrative function of this verse?

It marks a pivot from doctrinal reflection (karma teaching) to practical mobilization: the ṛṣi recruits a capable ally, setting up the next action sequence.

Is ‘vānara’ here symbolic or literal?

In Purāṇic storytelling, vānara figures can be literal forest-dwellers/animal-persons and also symbolize strength, agility, and loyal service. The immediate grammar treats him as a concrete character being addressed and enlisted.

Why does the sage use the phrase ‘kartum arhasi’ (you ought/are worthy)?

It frames assistance as dharmically appropriate rather than coerced—service offered by one who is ‘fit’ (arha) to perform it, aligning action with merit and right conduct.