Ramayana — Yuddha Kanda, Sarga 30, 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||
सौम्य, ते दुर्जेय वानर कसे आहेत, त्यांची प्रभा व सामर्थ्य काय? ते कोणाचे पुत्र व पौत्र आहेत—मला सत्य सांग।
"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.