Since the winner was one, singular number should have been used. If it is argued that Lakshmana should also be treated as a winner because he had accompanied Rama, dual number could have been employed. But here is the plural. The poet’s idea is since the whole world appreciates the great brotherhood of Rama and his brothers, the victory of one should be taken as the victory of all according to tradition. Or, the plural is used with reference to Rama, the one winner on account of the regard that was due to his superhuman achievement in the form of breaking Sankara’s bow which could not be even stringed by other kings.
Rama’s victory in breaking Siva’s bow 1.68.5
Since the winner was one, singular number should have been used. If it is argued that Lakshmana should also be treated as a winner because he had accompanied Rama, dual number could have been employed. But here is the plural. The poet’s idea is since the whole world appreciates the great brotherhood of Rama and his brothers, the victory of one should be taken as the victory of all according to tradition. Or, the plural is used with reference to Rama, the one winner on account of the regard that was due to his superhuman achievement in the form of breaking Sankara’s bow which could not be even stringed by other kings.