1 Dronabhisheka 30 147.7 2:03:05
1 Janamejaya asked Vaisampayana about what Dhritarashtra did after learning of Bhishma's death. Vaisampayana replied that Dhritarashtra was filled with anxiety and grief, and Sanjaya came to him with news from the camp. Dhritarashtra lamented the loss of Bhishma, who had been slain by Sikhandin, and asked Sanjaya what the Kauravas did next. Sanjaya described how the warriors reflected on Bhishma's duties and bowed to him, then prepared for battle. They made a bed of arrows for Bhishma and bid him farewell. The Kauravas, urged by fate, went out to battle, and their army was like a herd without a herdsman, lost and frightened. They remembered Karna, who was equal to Bhishma, and cried out for him to save them. Karna had promised not to fight until Bhishma was slain, and now the Kauravas turned to him for relief. They praised Karna, saying he was the only one who could fill the gap left by Bhishma. Dhritarashtra hoped that Karna would indeed fill that gap and crown their hopes with victory. He wondered if Karna's prowess would be enough to save them from the Pandavas. Vaisampayana continued, describing how the Kauravas had always relied on Bhishma, but now he was gone, and they turned to Karna as their last hope. They remembered Karna's words, that he would not fight until Bhishma was slain, and now they begged him to take up arms and lead them to victory. Dhritarashtra's heart was filled with anxiety and fear, and he hoped that Karna would be their savior.
2 Sanjaya said, "When Bhishma fell, Karna, with a cheerless heart and tearful eyes, consoled the Dhartarashtras. He remembered Bhishma's attributes and prowess, and how he had been slain. Karna declared that he would now protect the Kuru host and slay the Pandavas. He regarded everything as ephemeral and was determined to fight bravely. He knew the Pandava force was strong, but he was willing to face them. "He asked his charioteer to bring his armor, bows, arrows, and other weapons, and to prepare his car for battle. He wanted to conquer the foe and bestow sovereignty on Duryodhana. He was determined to either achieve victory or follow Bhishma in death. "Karna rode into battle on a costly car with an excellent standard, accompanied by a large force, to avenge Bhishma's death. His car was decked with gold and jewels, and his standard bore the device of the elephant's girth. His steeds were fleet as the wind, and his rattle resembled the roll of the clouds. "The Kuru car-warriors worshipped him like Indra, and he shone like the lord of the celestials himself riding on his celestial car. With his immeasurable energy and prowess, he was a formidable force on the battlefield. He was determined to fight bravely and emerge victorious, or to die trying."
3 Sanjaya said, "Beholding Bhishma fallen, the hope of victory for the Kauravas disappeared. Bhishma, the destroyer of Kshatriyas, lay on a bed of arrows, looking like the vast ocean dried up by mighty winds. Karna alighted from his car, filled with grief and affliction, and approached Bhishma on foot. He saluted Bhishma with joined palms and said, 'I am Karna! Speak to me, O Bharata, and look at me, opening thy eyes.' Karna lamented that Bhishma, the foremost of all combatants, lay slain on the ground. He praised Bhishma's virtues and said that without him, the Kauravas would be unable to bear the might of Arjuna. Karna declared that he was competent to slay Arjuna, who was protected by Madhava, and requested Bhishma's permission to do so. He described Arjuna as a fierce warrior who resembled a snake of virulent poison and slew his foes with his glances alone."
4 Sanjaya said, "The aged Kuru grandsire, Bhishma, spoke to Karna with a cheerful heart, 'Be the refuge of thy relatives and friends, like the ocean to rivers. Humiliate thy foes and enhance the joys of thy friends. Be the enhancer of the Kauravas' joys, like Vishnu to the dwellers of heaven.' Bhishma praised Karna's prowess, recalling how he had vanquished many kings and races, and implored him to lead the Kurus to victory. Bhishma said, 'Protect the Kaurava host like Duryodhana, regarding it as thy own. Thou art our grandson, and thy relationship with the Kurus is superior to that of blood.' Karna, reverentially saluting Bhishma's feet, came to the Kaurava encampment and began to encourage the warriors. The Kauravas, headed by Duryodhana, were filled with joy, and beholding Karna, they received him with loud shouts and roars, slapping their arm-pits and twanging their bows."
5 Sanjaya said, "Duryodhana, filled with joy, said to Karna, 'Now that Bhishma is about to ascend to heaven, whom do you think fit to be our commander after him?' Karna replied, 'You are the wisest of kings, tell us yourself.' Duryodhana said, 'We need a leader who can protect us in battle. Without a leader, an army cannot stay in battle for even a short while.' Karna suggested, 'Let us make Drona our leader. He is the preceptor of all these warriors, venerable in years, and worthy of respect. He is invincible and equal to Sukra or Vrihaspati himself. All the kings in your army will follow him.' Duryodhana was convinced, and Karna continued, 'Make Drona the leader of your forces without delay, as the celestials made Kartikeya their leader in battle for vanquishing the Asuras.'"
6 Sanjaya said, "Duryodhana spoke to Drona, praising his virtues and suitability to be their leader. He said, 'Protect us like Vasava protects the celestials. With you as our leader, we desire to vanquish our foes. You are the foremost of all leaders, like Kapali among the Rudras, Pavaka among the Vasus, and Vasava among the Maruts. Your nobility, learning, years, intelligence, prowess, skill, invincibility, knowledge of worldly matters, policy, and self-conquest make you superior to all others. Dispose our troops in battle array and slay our foes like Indra slaying the Danavas. Proceed at our head, like Kartikeya leading the celestial forces. We will follow you to battle, like bulls following a bovine leader. With you stretching your bow at our head, Arjuna will not strike. Without doubt, if you become our leader, I will vanquish Yudhishthira and his followers.' The kings cried victory to Drona, and the troops, filled with joy, glorified him. Drona's acceptance of the leadership was imminent, and the stage was set for the next phase of the battle."
7 Drona accepts the command of the Kaurava army and vows to fight valiantly, but refuses to slay Dhrishtadyumna, who is destined to kill him. The Kauravas rejoice at Drona's appointment and perform rituals to mark the occasion. Drona arrays the troops in a Sakata formation, while the Pandavas form a Krauncha shape. Karna leads the Kaurava army, while Arjuna heads the Pandava forces. The two armies clash, and the earth trembles with the sound of wailing. Omens appear, including falling meteors and birds wheeling to the left. The battle rages on, with Drona scattering arrows and breaking through the Pandava lines. The Pandavas and Srinjayas fight back, but Drona's celestial weapons afflict them. Dhrishtadyumna, however, baffles Drona's arrows and causes a slaughter among the Kurus. The battle intensifies, with Drona coursing through the Pandava force like a circle of fire.
8 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between Drona and the Pandavas. Drona, filled with rage, single-handedly attacks the Pandava army, felling many warriors and causing chaos. His red steeds, fleet as the wind, are covered in blood. The Pandava warriors , including Arjuna, Bhima, and Satyaki, rally against Drona, but he continues to career through the field like Death itself. Drona's arrows envelop the enemy, and his standard is all that can be seen moving like flashes of lightning. The Pandavas and Panchalas try to counterattack, but Drona's weapons are too powerful. He crushes many divisions and grinds down numerous heroes before finally being slain by Dhrishtadyumna. The heavens and earth resound with a loud uproar, and the gods and Pitris behold Drona's fall. The Pandavas utter leonine shouts, and the earth trembles with their victory.
9 Dhritarashtra laments the death of Drona, wondering how the Pandavas could have defeated him. He describes Drona's prowess in battle, his skill with weapons, and his ability to scatter showers of shafts. He questions how Dhrishtadyumna, the prince of the Panchalas, could have slain Drona, who was like a tiger among men. Dhritarashtra asks Sanjaya to explain how Drona was killed, wondering if his chariot broke or his bow failed him. He asks if Drona was careless or if destiny played a role in his death. He describes Drona's steeds as fleet as the wind and covered in gold, and wonders how they could have been overpowered. He asks Sanjaya to tell him more about Drona's final battle and how he was slain.
10 Dhritarashtra lamented, "Arjuna, that mighty warrior, came upon Drona, shooting showers of arrows. Who resisted him? When Bhimasena, that tiger among men, rushed upon my host, what became of your minds? When Arjuna, with his Gandiva and white steeds, came, pouring showers of arrows, what was the state of your mind? Who resisted Satyaki, that foremost of the Vrishnis, equal to Vasudeva in energy? Who opposed Dhrishtaketu, that brave warrior amongst the Chedis? Who resisted Abhimanyu, that youth of vigorous understanding, resembling Death himself? Who surrounded the sons of Draupadi, those tigers among men? Who resisted Chekitana, that great bowman? Who opposed the five Kekaya brothers, virtuous and possessed of prowess? Who resisted Yuyutsu, that lord of battle, that foremost of bowmen? Who surrounded Dhrishtadyumna, that mighty bowman, created for Drona's destruction? How can the sons of Pritha meet with defeat, they who have Vasudeva, the great Master of all the worlds, for their refuge and benefactor?"
11 Dhritarashtra said, "Hear, O Sanjaya, the celestial feats of Vasudeva, which no other person has ever achieved. Even as a boy, Krishna slew Hayaraja and other powerful Asuras. He vanquished kings at a self-choice and bore away the daughter of the king of the Gandharas. He slew Jarasandha and the king of Chedis, and hurled the Daitya city Saubha into the sea. He vanquished various kings and obtained the celestial conch Panchajanya. He gratified Agni and obtained his invincible weapon of fire, the discus Sudarsana. He brought the celestial flower Parijata from Mahendra himself. I have never heard of anyone who has not been vanquished by Krishna. His prowess is infinite, and with him are the mighty Vrishni heroes. If he fights for the Pandavas, none of us can be his antagonist. Tell me, how did the battle take place? Arjuna is Kesava's life, and Krishna is always victory. The Kurus cannot gain victory against them."
12 Sanjaya said, "I will describe how Drona fell, slain by the Pandavas. Drona, given command of the troops, asked Duryodhana what boon he desired. Duryodhana asked for Yudhishthira to be taken alive, sparking wonder from Drona, who noted Yudhishthira's foeless state. Drona deduced Duryodhana's plan to vanquish the Pandavas and re-establish brotherly relations. Drona agreed to seize Yudhishthira but only if Arjuna was absent, citing Arjuna's invincibility and his own prior teaching of Arjuna. Drona promised to seize Yudhishthira if Arjuna was withdrawn, and Duryodhana proclaimed this to his troops, aware of Drona's partiality for the Pandavas. Drona's promise was conditional, requiring Arjuna's absence, which Duryodhana sought to ensure. Drona's words revealed his knowledge of the Pandavas' strength and his own limitations. He acknowledged Arjuna's prowess and the difficulty of defeating him. Drona's promise, though conditional, boosted Duryodhana's confidence and revealed the complexities of the war, where alliances and strategies shifted amidst the pursuit of victory."
13 Sanjaya said, "After Drona vowed to capture Yudhishthira, our troops cheered, but Yudhishthira learned of Drona's plan through spies. He gathered his brothers and allies, telling Arjuna, 'Drona intends to capture me. Let us prevent it.' Arjuna replied, 'I cannot fight my preceptor, but I won't let him capture you either. I'd rather die than fight Drona.' Arjuna vowed to protect Yudhishthira, saying, 'As long as I live, Drona won't capture you. The firmament may fall, the Earth may split, but Drona won't succeed.' Arjuna recalled his past promises and victories, saying, 'My promises never go unfulfilled, and I've never been defeated.' The Pandavas and Kurus arrayed for battle, and a fierce fight ensued. Drona and Arjuna protected their respective sides, and the battle raged on. Drona's prowess was like the Sun, and his shafts coursed through the Pandava ranks, striking fear into their hearts. The Pandavas couldn't look at the angry Drona, who was consuming their division. Drona's shafts covered all directions, crushing the Pandava force. The Srinjayas struggled, but Drona's host was too strong. The Pandavas sounded their conchs and drums, and the battle grew more intense. Drona's car moved swiftly, and his bow sang a deadly song. The Pandavas were in a difficult position, but Arjuna stood firm, determined to protect Yudhishthira."
14 Sanjaya said, "Drona caused chaos in the Pandava army, careereding through it like a raging conflagration. The Srinjayas trembled in fear. Drona's bow twanged like thunder, and his shafts crushed car-warriors, horsemen, and foot soldiers. He showered arrows like hailstones, inspiring fear in the hearts of the foe. The Pandavas and Kurus arrayed for battle, and Drona's gold-decked bow flashed like lightning. He caused an awful river of death to flow, with blood as its waters and cars as its eddies. The battle raged on, with Drona's shafts constituting the river's current. The Pandava warriors rushed at Drona from all sides, and the battle intensified. Sakuni pierced Sahadeva's charioteer and car, while Bhimasena fought Vivinsati. Nakula fought Salya, and Satyaki fought Kritavarman. The battle was fierce, with warriors on both sides exhibiting great prowess. Abhimanyu fought Paurava and Jayadratha, displaying his skill and strength. The Kaurava army surrounded him, but he scorching them like the sun. Salya hurled a dart at Abhimanyu, who caught it and unsheathed his sword, earning a leonine shout from the kings."
15 Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya to describe the combat between Salya and Abhimanyu. Sanjaya described the fierce battle between Salya and Bhima, who wielded massive maces. The two warriors roared like bulls and circled each other, their maces flashing like lightning. The combat was intense, with both warriors striking each other with their maces, causing sparks of fire to fly around. They fought like tigers or elephants, their maces crashing against each other. Despite being struck, neither warrior moved, standing firm like hills. They fell to the ground simultaneously, but quickly rose up again. Kritavarman rescued the unconscious Salya and bore him away from the field. Bhima stood up, mace in hand, and the Pandavas triumphed, causing the Kaurava army to flee in fear. The Pandavas blew their conchs, beat their drums, and uttered leonine roars, elated with joy. The battle was a display of incredible strength and valor, with both warriors exhibiting their skills and prowess. Salya and Bhima were evenly matched, and their combat was a wonder to behold. The sound of their maces crashing against each other echoed through the battlefield, striking fear into the hearts of the Kaurava warriors. In the end, the Pandavas emerged victorious, their triumph a testament to their bravery and skill.
16 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between the Pandavas and Kauravas. Vrishasena, son of Karna, single-handedly protects the Kaurava army, displaying his skill and prowess. The Pandavas unite to counter him, and a fierce battle ensues. Drona's son, Aswatthama, and other Kaurava warriors join the fight, and the Pandavas respond with vigor. The battle rages on, with many heroes displaying their strength and valor. Drona, excited with rage, penetrates the Pandava host and rushes towards Yudhishthira. However, he is checked by Kumara, who pierces him with an arrow. Drona slays Kumara and continues to fight, piercing many Pandava warriors. The Pandavas surround him, but he stands firm, like the all-destructive sun. Arjuna eventually arrives, routing the Kauravas and crossing a river of blood to reach Drona. He covers Drona's division with a net of arrows, confounding his senses. The battle ends with the withdrawal of troops, and the Pandavas praise Arjuna for his victory.
17 Sanjaya recounts the events of the day to Dhritarashtra, describing the intense battle between the Pandavas and Kauravas. Drona, filled with shame and frustration, advises Duryodhana to draw Arjuna away from Yudhishthira's side, knowing that the Pandava king is vulnerable without his protector. The Trigarta brothers, seeking revenge against Arjuna for past humiliations, take a solemn vow to either slay him or die in the attempt. With fiery passion, they march towards Arjuna, summoning him to battle. Arjuna, determined to fulfill his vow to never turn back from a challenge, asks Yudhishthira for permission to go and fight them. Yudhishthira, aware of the danger, grants his leave, entrusting Satyajit with his protection. Arjuna departs, his chariot wheels rumbling as he charges into battle. The two armies clash, their weapons and armor glinting in the sunlight. Duryodhana's troops, emboldened by Arjuna's absence, seek to capture Yudhishthira, but Satyajit stands firm, ready to defend his king.
18 Sanjaya vividly describes the intense battle between Arjuna and the Trigarta brothers, who are filled with delight and anticipation at the prospect of fighting the legendary warrior. As Arjuna approaches, the Trigartas form an array in the shape of a half-moon, their cars and weapons at the ready. With a hint of a smile, Arjuna remarks to Krishna that the Trigartas are rejoicing at a time when they should be mourning their impending defeat. As the battle commences, Arjuna blows his conch, Devadatta, with great force, shattering the air and sending a wave of fear through the Trigarta ranks. Their animals are paralyzed with terror, unable to move or escape. Regaining their composure, the Trigartas launch a fierce attack, shooting arrows at Arjuna with all their might. But the mighty Pandava warrior is unfazed, cutting down their arrows with ease and precision. The Trigartas continue to press the attack, but Arjuna's prowess is unmatched. He pierces their ranks with his arrows, his diadem shining with golden shafts that seem to dance in the sunlight. With a swift stroke, he kills Sudhanwan and his steeds, sending the Trigarta king and his followers into a panic. As they flee in disarray, Arjuna pursues them relentlessly, filling the air with incessant showers of arrows that seem to fall like rain from the heavens. Despite their valiant efforts, the Trigartas are no match for Arjuna's skill and strength. Their king, however, refuses to yield, rallying his troops with a stirring speech and urging them to stand and fight to the death. With renewed determination, the Samsaptakas return to the field, resolved to face their fate with courage and honor.
19 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between Arjuna and the Samsaptakas. Arjuna tells Krishna to drive the chariot towards the enemy, vowing to slay them all. Krishna smiles and urges on the steeds. The chariot moves swiftly, displaying circular and diverse motions. The Narayanas surround Arjuna, covering him with arrows, but he doubles his energy and shoots the Tvashtra weapon, creating multiple images of himself and Krishna. The enemy troops become confused and start striking each other. Arjuna crushes the Lalithya, Malava, and Trigarta warriors, and the Kshatriyas are slaughtered by his arrows. The Samsaptakas shoot arrows at Arjuna, but he dispels them with the Vayavya weapon, and the wind bears away the enemy troops like dry leaves. Arjuna strikes them with sharp shafts, cutting off heads, hands, and thighs. The battlefield becomes impassable, and the earth is purified of dust by the showers of blood. The car of Vibhatsu shines fiercely like Rudra's car, and the field of battle looks dreadful like Yama's domains.
20 Sanjaya describes the epic battle between the Pandavas and the Kauravas. Drona, at the head of his troops, advances to seize Yudhishthira, while Arjuna is engaged with the Samsaptakas. Yudhishthira disposes his troops in a semi-circular array to counter Drona's Garuda formation, with Dhrishtadyumna leading the charge. The battle rages on, with warriors on both sides displaying their prowess. Dhrishtadyumna engages Drona and his son Durmukha, while Yudhishthira's host is scattered by Drona's arrows. The clash of elephants and steeds shakes the earth, and the sounds of roaring elephants and clashing weapons fill the air. The battle becomes fierce and intense, with warriors losing their distinction between friend and foe. The earth is strewn with bodies, and the sounds of wailing and crying echo through the field. Drona confounds the senses of his foes and rushes at Yudhishthira, determined to capture him. The Pandavas and Kauravas fight with all their might, their weapons and armor flashing in the sunlight. The outcome of the battle hangs in the balance, as the two armies clash in a frenzy of steel and bloodlust. The scene is one of utter chaos and carnage, with warriors and animals alike falling to the ground. The earth is drenched in blood, and the air is thick with the smell of death. Yet, despite the intensity of the battle, the warriors fight on, driven by their duty and their desire for victory. The battle is a testament to the bravery and skill of the warriors, and a reminder of the devastating consequences of war.
21 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between Drona and the Pandavas, with Drona determined to capture Yudhishthira. Satyajit and Vrika resist him valiantly, but Drona's skill and prowess prove too great. He slays Vrika and Satyajit, but the Pandavas continue to attack him, undeterred by their fallen comrades. Drona's chariot is surrounded by the Pandavas, but he fights on, his bow and arrows flashing like lightning as he seeks to seize Yudhishthira. The battle rages on, with Drona consuming the Pandava divisions like a fire consuming cotton. The Pandavas and their allies flee in fear, but Drona pursues them relentlessly, slaughtering many and sending others running for their lives. The battlefield is a scene of utter carnage, with bodies strewn about and the sound of wailing and crying filling the air. The battle is fierce and intense, with Drona's bow and arrows flashing like lightning as he cuts down his foes. The Pandavas are unable to withstand Drona's onslaught, and many are slain or wounded. The battle is described as a river of blood, with Drona as the mighty current that bears away the Pandava warriors. Despite their bravery, the Pandavas are unable to defeat Drona, who is supported by the Kurus and fights with all his might.
22 Dhritarashtra asks Sanjaya if anyone approached Drona for battle when the Pandavas were broken. Sanjaya describes the scene where the Pandavas and their allies are fleeing in fear, while Drona is stationed like a tiger, ready to fight. Duryodhana, filled with joy, says to Karna that the Pandavas will not return to battle, but Karna disagrees, saying that Bhima will not abandon the fight. Karna predicts that the Pandavas will slay many of their car-warriors and that Drona will be afflicted by them. Karna urges Duryodhana to go to Drona's aid quickly, lest he be slain like a mighty elephant by wolves. Duryodhana, accompanied by his brothers, proceeds towards Drona's car, where the noise of the battle is deafening. The Pandava warriors, determined to slay Drona, return to the fight on their cars, drawn by excellent steeds of diverse hue. The scene is set for a fierce and intense battle, with Drona at its center.
23 Duryodhana and Karna discuss the intense battle between Drona and the Pandavas. Duryodhana, filled with joy, says that the Pandavas will not return to battle, but Karna disagrees. Karna predicts that Bhima, determined to slay Drona, will fight on, despite the odds. He warns Duryodhana that the Pandavas will not be easily defeated and that Drona will be afflicted by them. Karna urges Duryodhana to go to Drona's aid quickly, lest he be slain like a mighty elephant by wolves. Duryodhana, accompanied by his brothers, proceeds towards Drona's car, where the noise of the battle is deafening. The Pandava warriors, determined to slay Drona, return to the fight on their cars, drawn by excellent steeds of diverse hue. The scene is set for a fierce and intense battle, with Drona at its center. Karna's words prove prophetic as the Pandavas, led by Bhima, launch a fierce attack on Drona. The battle rages on, with Drona fighting valiantly, but the Pandavas refusing to back down. The outcome of the battle is far from certain, as the two sides clash in a frenzy of arrows and swords.
24 Dhritarashtra asks Sanjaya to describe the battle between the Pandavas and the Kauravas. Sanjaya describes how Bhima fought against Duryodhana's elephant division, breaking through the ranks and causing chaos. Duryodhana himself rushed at Bhima, but was struck by Bhima's arrows. The ruler of the Angas then attacked Bhima, but was killed by him. The ruler of the Pragjyotishas, Bhagadatta, then advanced on his elephant, Supratika, and attacked Bhima. Bhima got under the elephant's body and struck it, causing it to turn round like a potter's wheel. Bhima then ran away, and the Pandava host fled in fear. King Yudhishthira surrounded Bhagadatta with numerous cars and covered him with arrows, but Bhagadatta's elephant consumed both the Pandavas and the Panchalas. The battle between the two elephants was fierce, and Bhagadatta's elephant emerged victorious. Bhima then rushed against Bhagadatta again, but was repelled by the elephant's water spouted from its trunk. Other Pandava warriors then attacked the elephant, but were unable to defeat it. Bhagadatta's elephant continued to wreak havoc on the Pandava host, causing them to flee in fear.
25 Sanjaya describes Arjuna's feats in battle to Dhritarashtra, saying that Arjuna saw the dust rising and heard the wail of the troops as Bhagadatta fought on his elephant. Arjuna tells Krishna that he thinks Bhagadatta is the foremost elephant-warrior and that his elephant is impervious to weapons. He notes that the elephant is capable of bearing every weapon and even the touch of fire, and that it will alone destroy the Pandava force that day. Arjuna decides to go to where Bhagadatta is, but is summoned by the Samsaptaka car-warriors, who number fourteen thousand. He is torn between returning to battle them or going to Yudhishthira's aid. After reflection, he decides to slaughter the Samsaptakas, thinking that it would be better to fight them first and then go to Bhagadatta. The Samsaptakas shoot thousands of arrows at Arjuna, covering him, Krishna, and the steeds. But Arjuna uses the Brahma weapon and nearly exterminates them, striking down hundreds of arms, standards, steeds, and charioteers. Elephants and riders are also struck down by Arjuna's shafts, and the ground is covered with the bodies of the fallen warriors. Krishna is amazed by Arjuna's feat and says that even Indra, Yama, or the Lord of treasures could not have performed it. He praises Arjuna, saying that he has achieved something that even the gods could not do. After slaying the Samsaptakas, Arjuna tells Krishna to go towards Bhagadatta, indicating that he is now ready to face the ruler of the Pragjyotishas.
26 Sanjaya describes Arjuna's battle with Susarman and his brothers, and how he then advances towards Drona's division. Arjuna scatters showers of arrows, scorching the Kaurava warriors and overwhelming them. He comes upon the king of the Pragjyotishas, Bhagadatta, who rushes towards him on his elephant. The encounter between Arjuna's car and Bhagadatta's elephant is fierce, with both heroes coursing on the field, equipped according to the rules of science. Bhagadatta pours showers of arrows on Dhananjaya, but the latter cuts them off with his arrows. Bhagadatta then strikes Partha and Krishna with many shafts, and urges his elephant for their destruction. Janardana moves the car to keep the elephant on their left, and Dhananjaya refrains from slaying the elephant from the back, remembering the rules of fair fight. However, the elephant destroys other elephants, cars, and steeds, filling Dhananjaya with rage. Arjuna advances towards Bhagadatta, who rushes towards him on his elephant. The encounter is fierce, with both heroes coursing on the field, equipped according to the rules of science. Bhagadatta pours showers of arrows on Dhananjaya, but the latter cuts them off with his arrows. Bhagadatta then strikes Partha and Krishna with many shafts, and urges his elephant for their destruction. Janardana moves the car to keep the elephant on their left, and Dhananjaya refrains from slaying the elephant from the back, remembering the rules of fair fight. The elephant destroys other elephants, cars, and steeds, filling Dhananjaya with rage. The battle between Arjuna and Bhagadatta is intense, with both sides exchanging arrows and showing their prowess.
27 Dhritarashtra asks Sanjaya to describe the battle between Arjuna and Bhagadatta, and Sanjaya begins to recount the details. Bhagadatta, filled with rage, showered arrows on Arjuna and Krishna from the neck of his elephant. The arrows, made of black iron and equipped with golden wings, whetted on stone and shot from his bow, drew blood from Devaki's son. However, Arjuna was not deterred and cut off Bhagadatta's bow and quivers, then struck him with many arrows. Bhagadatta retaliated by hurling a dart made of iron and decked with gold at Vasudeva, but it became a triumphal garland on his breast. Arjuna rebuked Vasudeva for intervening, reminding him of his promise to only guide his steed and not fight himself. However, Vasudeva explained that he had given the Vaishnava weapon to the Earth's son Naraka, who had passed it to Bhagadatta. Vasudeva told Arjuna that he had divided himself into four forms to protect the worlds and that he had given the Vaishnava weapon to Naraka to make him invincible. However, he had also told Naraka that the weapon would be infallible for his protection, but not for his offense. Vasudeva encouraged Arjuna to slay Bhagadatta, and Arjuna overwhelmed him with arrows. Arjuna then struck Bhagadatta's elephant between the frontal globes with a long arrow, splitting it like thunder splitting a mountain. The elephant fell to the ground, striking it with its tusks, and died. Arjuna then pierced Bhagadatta's bosom with an arrow, and he fell from his elephant, dead. His valuable cloth turban fell from his head, and his golden garlands were torn apart. The son of Indra had slain the monarch who resembled Indra himself in prowess.
28 Sanjaya describes the battle between Arjuna and the sons of the king of Gandhara, Vrishaka and Achala. Arjuna slew the two brothers with a single arrow, and their bodies fell to the ground, spreading sacred fame. Enraged, Sakuni created illusions to confound the two Krishnas, but Arjuna dispelled them with his weapons. A thick darkness appeared, but Arjuna used the Jyotishka weapon to dispel it. Frightful waves of water then appeared, but Arjuna used the Aditya weapon to dry them up. Sakuni fled, and Arjuna showered arrows upon the Kaurava host, dividing it into two streams. A thick dust arose, and only the twang of Gandiva could be heard. A fierce battle took place on the southern part of the field, and Arjuna smote the foe on every part of the field, like the wind destroying clouds in the summer season. Struck by Partha, the warriors fled, killing many of their own number. The arrows shot by Arjuna fell like flights of locusts, piercing steeds, car-warriors, elephants, and foot-soldiers. The field of battle presented a variegated and awful sight, with slain men and animals lying all about.
29 Dhritarashtra asks Sanjaya to describe the state of mind of the Kuru warriors when their divisions were broken and routed. Sanjaya replies that despite the chaos, many heroes remained steadfast and followed Drona, achieving great feats against the Pandava army. The battle became fierce, with both sides shouting and clashing in a desperate struggle. Dhrishtadyumna, the Pandava general, checked Drona's advance, and a wonderful encounter ensued. The Pandava warriors, filled with rage and vindictiveness, approached the battle recklessly, making life itself the stake. The earth trembled beneath their feet, and the noise of the clashing armies paralyzed the welkin. Drona, careening over the field, broke through the Pandava divisions with his whetted shafts. Dhrishtadyumna, filled with rage, checked Drona's advance, and the two engaged in a fierce duel. Meanwhile, Nila, a Pandava warrior, consumed the Kuru ranks with his arrows, but was confronted by Drona's son, Aswatthaman. The two engaged in a fierce duel, with Nila ultimately being slain by Aswatthaman. The Pandava host trembled with grief at Nila's fall, and wondered how Arjuna, who was engaged on another part of the field, would rescue them from the foe. The battle raged on, with heroes on both sides achieving great feats. The clash of arms and the cries of the warriors filled the air, as the two armies struggled for supremacy. The outcome of the battle was far from certain, as the brave warriors of both sides fought on, undaunted by the carnage around them.
30 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between the Pandavas and the Kauravas. Bhima, filled with rage, strikes Valhika and Karna with many arrows. Drona, desiring to slay Bhima, pierces him with many whetted shafts. Karna, Aswatthaman, and Duryodhana also strike Bhima, but he fights back fiercely. The Pandava warriors, including Yuyudhana and the sons of Madri, rush to Bhima's side and attack Drona's host. The battle rages on, with warriors on both sides fighting recklessly and falling to the ground. Elephants and steeds are slain, and cars are broken. The earth is covered with the bodies of the dead, and the dust raised by the troops makes it difficult to distinguish friend from foe. Arjuna, meanwhile, has been fighting the Samsaptakas and now approaches Drona's car. He is met by Karna, who invokes the Agneya weapon, but Arjuna baffles it with his own arrowy downpours. The two warriors engage in a fierce duel, with Karna's brothers being slain by Arjuna. Bhima and Satyaki also attack Karna, who is eventually rescued by Duryodhana and others. The battle continues, with both sides suffering heavy losses, until the sun sets and the warriors retire to their tents.
2 Abhimanyu-badha 51 158.8 2:12:20
31 Sanjaya tells Dhritarashtra that after Arjuna broke Drona's vow and protected Yudhishthira, the Kaurava warriors were defeated and humiliated. They spent the night in silence, reflecting on their failure. The next day, Duryodhana accused Drona of not fulfilling his promise to capture Yudhishthira. Drona replied that even the gods cannot defeat Arjuna, and that he will slay a Pandava hero that day. He formed an impenetrable array, but Abhimanyu, Arjuna's son, pierced it and achieved great feats before being slain by six warriors. The Kauravas were joyful, but the Pandavas were grief-stricken. Dhritarashtra laments the death of Abhimanyu, who was still a child, and asks Sanjaya to describe how so many warriors slew him. Sanjaya agrees to relate the story, saying that Abhimanyu fearlessly careered over the field, playing with his weapons, and afflicting the Kaurava heroes. He compares the Kaurava warriors to forest denizens surrounded by a forest fire, filled with fear.
32 Sanjaya praises the Pandavas, saying they are unstoppable in battle and have virtues that make them worthy of heaven. He compares Yudhishthira to the Destroyer himself, and says Arjuna is unmatched in battle. He also praises Nakula, Sahadeva, and Abhimanyu, saying they possess various noble qualities. Sanjaya emphasizes that Abhimanyu has all the virtues of the Pandavas combined, making him a formidable warrior. Dhritarashtra asks Sanjaya to describe Abhimanyu's death in detail, showing his concern and grief. Sanjaya begins by describing the formation of the Kaurava army, with Drona at the head and various warriors stationed at different points. He describes the warriors as fierce and determined, with red robes and gold ornaments, and says they advanced towards Abhimanyu with a unified spirit. Sanjaya sets the stage for the battle, describing the warriors on both sides as eager for fight and determined to win. Sanjaya's description of the Kaurava army highlights their strength and unity, making Abhimanyu's eventual defeat even more tragic. He emphasizes the bravery and determination of the warriors, showing that the battle was intense and fierce. Sanjaya's words paint a vivid picture of the battlefield, making it clear that the outcome was far from certain.
33 Sanjaya describes the Pandavas' attempt to break Drona's invincible array. Many warriors, including Abhimanyu, Satyaki, and Dhrishtadyumna, rush towards Drona but are pushed back by his arrows. Yudhishthira realizes that only Abhimanyu, Arjuna, Krishna, or Pradyumna can pierce the array. He asks Abhimanyu to break the array, knowing that he has been taught by Arjuna how to do so. Abhimanyu agrees, but warns that he may not be able to come out if he gets into danger. Yudhishthira and Bhima promise to follow him and protect him. Abhimanyu vows to penetrate the array like an insect entering a blazing fire and slaughter the hostile soldiers. He boasts that if he cannot cut off the Kshatriya race into eight fragments, he will not regard himself as Arjuna's son. Yudhishthira blesses Abhimanyu, and he orders his charioteer to urge the steeds towards Drona's army. Abhimanyu's determination and bravery are evident as he prepares to face the formidable array. His words and actions showcase his skill and confidence, making him a formidable force on the battlefield. The stage is set for a fierce and intense battle, as Abhimanyu leads the charge against Drona's array.
34 Abhimanyu, son of Arjuna, is urged by his charioteer to reconsider his decision to break Drona's array, but Abhimanyu is confident in his abilities. He compares himself to Vishnu and says he does not fear Drona or the Kaurava army. Abhimanyu's charioteer, Sumitra, is hesitant but ultimately urges the steeds forward. Abhimanyu fearlessly encounters the warriors, including Drona, and breaks into the array. The Kauravas attack him from all sides, but Abhimanyu, with his skill and knowledge of the vital parts of the body, strikes them down. He slew thousands of warriors, mangling their bodies and limbs. The field of battle becomes beautiful, like a sacrifice, with the bodies and limbs strewn about. Abhimanyu's feats are compared to those of Garuda and Mahadeva, and the Kauravas are filled with hopelessness and despair. Abhimanyu's prowess is described in detail, with his sharp shafts and whetted weapons cutting down elephants, steeds, and foot-soldiers. The Kauravas are unable to withstand his attack, and their efforts are compared to those of insects falling upon a blazing fire. Abhimanyu's victory is celebrated, and his name is spoken with reverence.
35 Duryodhana, filled with rage, attacks Abhimanyu, who is fearlessly striking down Kaurava warriors. Drona and other warriors rescue Duryodhana, surrounding Abhimanyu with a large body of cars and shooting arrowy showers. Abhimanyu, however, cuts off their shafts and pierces them with his own, displaying his remarkable skill and strength. The Kauravas, including Drona, Karna, and Duryodhana, pierce Abhimanyu with multiple shafts, but he retaliates, displaying wonderful strength and agility. He kills the ruler of the Asmakas and his force begins to flee in terror. Other warriors, including Karna, Kripa, and Drona's son, shower arrows on Abhimanyu, who is excessively pierced but continues to fight valiantly. He kills several warriors, including Sushena, Drighalochana, and Kundavedhin, and scatters arrows on Salya, who faints away. The Kaurava troops flee in disarray, and Abhimanyu is glorified by various beings for his heroism and skill in battle. Abhimanyu's prowess is described in detail, with his shafts flying in all directions and his chariot moving swiftly across the battlefield. His enemies are unable to withstand his attack, and they flee in terror, abandoning their wounded and their dead. Abhimanyu's victory is celebrated, and his name is spoken with reverence and admiration.
36 Dhritarashtra asks which warriors tried to stop Abhimanyu, and Sanjaya describes Abhimanyu's prowess in battle, saying, "Behold, O king, the splendid feat of youthful Abhimanyu while engaged in breaking the car-ranks of the Kauravas, protected by the son of Bharadwaja himself." When Salya's brother is killed, his followers, filled with rage, rush at Abhimanyu from all directions, proclaiming their families and names. Abhimanyu, smiling, pierces them with his shafts, displaying diverse weapons and battling mildly, yet with great skill and strength. He disregards the heavy burden and casts off fear, shooting arrows repeatedly with no interval between aiming and letting off. His bow and palms resound like thunderous clouds, and his weapons shine like the blazing disc of the autumnal sun. Initially gentle, Abhimanyu becomes fierce like the sun in autumn, shedding his rays and shooting hundreds of whetted arrows, furnished with golden wings. He covers the Kaurava army's car division with diverse arrows, causing them to turn back in disarray. The Kaurava warriors, struck with fear, flee in all directions, abandoning their wounded and their dead. Abhimanyu's victory is celebrated, and his name is spoken with reverence and admiration.
37 Dhritarashtra, filled with mixed emotions, asks Sanjaya to describe the encounter between Abhimanyu and the Kaurava army in detail. Sanjaya relates how Abhimanyu, with great daring and skill, showered arrows on the warriors, piercing Drona, Karna, and others, and seeming to be present everywhere on the battlefield. His conduct filled the Kauravas with fear, and Drona, with eyes expanded in joy, praised Abhimanyu, saying he was the only one who could slay the vast host. Duryodhana, enraged and jealous, told Karna and others to crush Abhimanyu, who he believed was protected by Drona due to his relationship with Arjuna. The warriors, excited with rage, rushed at Abhimanyu, with Duhsasana vowing to slay him and boasting that he would devour him like Rahu swallowing the sun. Duhsasana covered Abhimanyu with arrows, but Abhimanyu received them with ease, fighting back with skill and valor. The two warriors engaged in a fierce duel, describing beautiful circles with their cars and causing a deafening noise with their weapons and leonine roars. The sound of their battle was like the great receptacle of salt waters, and it seemed as if the very sky was shattered.
38 Abhimanyu, with limbs mangled by arrows, addresses Duhsasana, saying he will finally punish him for his cruel deeds. He reminds Duhsasana of how he had angered Yudhishthira and Bhima with his harsh speeches and how he had relied on deception to win the kingdom. Abhimanyu vows to free himself of his debt to Krishna, his sire, and Bhima by killing Duhsasana. He shoots an arrow that pierces Duhsasana's shoulder, causing him to faint and be carried away by his charioteer. The Pandavas and their allies rejoice at this victory, and Abhimanyu proceeds to attack Drona's array. Duryodhana orders Karna to stop Abhimanyu, and Karna rains arrows on him. Abhimanyu, however, continues to fight, determined to reach Drona. Karna and Abhimanyu engage in a fierce duel, exchanging arrows and showing their valour. Abhimanyu cuts off Karna's bow and standard, causing him distress. Karna's younger brother then comes to his aid, and the battle rages on.
39 Karna's brother attempts to stop Abhimanyu, but is beheaded by a single arrow, falling like a Karnikara tree shaken by the wind. Karna, filled with pain and grief, flees the battlefield, unable to bear the loss of his brother. Abhimanyu continues his rampage, breaking through the Kaurava host and causing chaos and destruction. His arrows fill the sky, and the Kaurava warriors flee in terror, trampling each other in their desperation to escape. Only the ruler of the Sindhus remains, and Abhimanyu quickly dispatches him, adding to the growing list of his conquests. The battlefield is soon filled with the bodies of the slain, and the Kaurava army is routed. Abhimanyu's arrows are likened to a burning brand, consuming everything in their path. The noise of the battle is deafening, and Abhimanyu is seen careening through the field, scorching his foes like the meridian sun. He is equal to Vasava himself in battle, and his prowess is a wonder to behold. The Kaurava warriors are unable to withstand his fury, and they flee in droves, leaving their fallen comrades behind.
40 Dhritarashtra asks Sanjaya if any great warriors followed Abhimanyu into the Kaurava army. Sanjaya replies that many warriors, including Yudhishthira, Bhimasena, and others, rushed to battle to rescue Abhimanyu. However, Jayadratha, the ruler of the Sindhus, single-handedly checked their advance. Dhritarashtra is impressed by Jayadratha's might and heroism and asks Sanjaya to explain how he accomplished this feat. Sanjaya reveals that Jayadratha had practiced severe ascetic austerities and received a boon from Mahadeva, the god of gods, to check the four Pandavas (except Arjuna) in battle. With this boon and his celestial weapons, Jayadratha held the Pandava army in check, inspiring fear in the hostile Kshatriyas and delight in the Kuru troops.
41 Sanjaya describes Jayadratha's prowess in battle, saying he fought valiantly with the Pandavas. His chariot, steeds, and weapons were magnificent, and he shone like the Moon in the firmament. His standard bearing the device of a large boar in silver looked exceedingly beautiful. With his white umbrella and banners, and the yak-tails with which he was fanned, he appeared like a king. His car-fence made of iron was decked with pearls, diamonds, gems, and gold, and looked resplendent like the firmament bespangled with luminous bodies. He drew his large bow and scattered countless shafts, filling up the array in those places where openings had been made by Abhimanyu. He pierced many Pandava warriors with his arrows, including Satyaki, Bhima, and Yudhishthira. Yudhishthira cut off Jayadratha's bow, but he quickly took up another and continued fighting. Bhima felled Jayadratha's bow, standard, and umbrella, but he took up another bow and continued to resist the Pandavas. The Pandavas and their allies praised Jayadratha's feat of single-handedly resisting them, excited with wrath. Jayadratha filled up the path that Abhimanyu had made by slaughtering numerous warriors and elephants. Many heroes tried to approach him but couldn't bear his might, thanks to the boon he received from Mahadeva.
42 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between Abhimanyu and the Kaurava warriors, which became awful and fierce. Abhimanyu, with his mighty energy and sure aim, penetrated the enemy array, agitating it like a Makara agitating the ocean. The principal warriors of the Kaurava army rushed to counter him, each according to his rank and precedence. The clash between them and Abhimanyu became awful, with arrowy showers scattering in all directions. Abhimanyu single-handedly fought off the Kaurava warriors, slaying many, including Vasatiya, with his far-reaching shafts. The battle raged on, with Abhimanyu cutting off the bows and arrows of his foes and slaying them with his shafts. The earth became strewn with the bodies of the slain warriors, their ornaments, and weapons. The field of battle was a fearful sight, with Abhimanyu careerening around, his form almost invisible, except for his coat of mail, ornaments, bow, and shafts. He shone like the sun, and none could gaze at him. The Kaurava warriors were unable to counter Abhimanyu's might, and he continued to slay them with ease, his chariot moving swiftly and his shafts flying in all directions.
43 Sanjaya describes Abhimanyu's extraordinary prowess in battle, likening him to the Destroyer and Yama. Abhimanyu penetrates the Katirava host, seizing Satvasravas and defeating many car-warriors who rush to attack him. Rukmaratha, son of the ruler of the Madras, attempts to capture Abhimanyu but is swiftly slain. Many princely friends of Rukmaratha then attack Abhimanyu, surrounding him with showers of arrows. Despite being deeply pierced, Abhimanyu applies the Gandharva weapon and confounds his foes, careerering like a circle of fire and slaying hundreds of kings. His chariot moves swiftly, his shafts flying in all directions, and his standard and bow shining brightly. Duryodhana is filled with fear, seeing his car-warriors, elephants, steeds, and foot-soldiers crushed. The unfinished battle between Abhimanyu and Duryodhana's son becomes exceedingly fierce, with both sides exhibiting great valor. However, Duryodhana's son is eventually obliged to turn back from the fight, unable to withstand Abhimanyu's might.
44 Dhritarashtra requests Sanjaya to continue the narrative of the intense battle between Abhimanyu and the Kaurava warriors. Sanjaya describes how the warriors, including Drona and Karna, were decisively beaten back by Abhimanyu, with their mouths drying up, eyes becoming restless, and their bodies covered in sweat. Only Lakshmana, Duryodhana's son, remained, and he was slain by Abhimanyu, who addressed him before delivering the fatal blow. Duryodhana, filled with rage and grief, urged his troops to attack Abhimanyu, who was then surrounded by six skilled car-warriors, including Drona and Karna. Abhimanyu fought them off with his swift and powerful arrows, and attacked the elephant division of the Kalingas, Nishadas, and Kratha's son, destroying it with ease. The battle was fierce and intense, with Abhimanyu displaying his remarkable prowess and skill. Kratha's son was slain, and the other combatants turned away from the fight, unable to withstand Abhimanyu's might.
45 Dhritarashtra asks Sanjaya to describe the battle where Abhimanyu, the youthful and invincible son of Subhadra, penetrated the Kaurava array. Abhimanyu, borne by his mighty steeds, achieved feats worthy of his lineage, making all the kings turn away from the fight. Six car-warriors, including Drona and Karna, encompassed him, but Abhimanyu paralyzed them with his sharp shafts. He pierced Drona with fifty arrows, Vrihadvala with twenty, and Kritavarman with eighty. Abhimanyu then slew Vrindaraka and pierced Aswatthaman, who in turn pierced him with twenty-five small arrows. Abhimanyu quickly retaliated, piercing Aswatthaman with many whetted shafts. Drona and Aswatthaman attempted to rescue each other, but Abhimanyu stood immovable, piercing them with arrows. The other warriors, including Karna and Kripa, also attacked Abhimanyu, but he pierced each of them in return. Abhimanyu then slew the ruler of the Kosalas, Vrihadvala, and ten thousand kings broke and fled.
46 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between Abhimanyu and the Kaurava warriors. Abhimanyu pierces Karna with arrows, and Karna retaliates, but Abhimanyu's prowess is unmatched. He slays six of Karna's counselors and pierces other great bowmen, including Salya, with his swift and sharp shafts. Abhimanyu then slays the son of the ruler of the Magadhas and the Bhoja prince of Martikavata, displaying his remarkable skill and strength. Duhsasana's son attempts to counterattack, piercing Abhimanyu's steeds and charioteer, but Abhimanyu quickly pierces him in return, his arrows flying rapidly and unerringly. Abhimanyu then slays five more warriors and pierces Suvala's son, his conquests mounting. The Kaurava warriors, led by Drona, Karna, and Kripa, discuss how to defeat Abhimanyu, recognizing his extraordinary abilities. Drona advises them to cut off his bow and steeds, and they follow this strategy, leaving Abhimanyu without his weapons and chariot. Undeterred, Abhimanyu takes up a sword and shield and jumps into the sky, displaying remarkable strength and agility. The Kaurava warriors pierce him with arrows, but Abhimanyu continues to fight valiantly, his determination and courage unwavering.
47 Sanjaya describes the final moments of Abhimanyu, who, deprived of his weapons and chariot, takes up a mace and rushes at Aswatthaman with great valor. Abhimanyu slays many warriors and elephants, displaying his remarkable strength and skill, but is eventually struck on the head with a mace by Duhsasana's son and falls to the ground, senseless. The Kaurava warriors are overjoyed, shouting leonine roars and congratulating each other, while the Pandavas are filled with grief and despair. Abhimanyu's body is surrounded by the Kaurava troops, and his face, with its moon-like splendor, is besmeared with blood. The earth is strewn with weapons, bodies, and other remnants of war, and the field of battle is impassable in many places. Yudhishthira rallies his troops, saying that Abhimanyu has ascended to heaven and that they must still vanquish their foes. He praises Abhimanyu's bravery and feats, saying that he has gone to the bright regions of the righteous, and that they should not grieve for him. Yudhishthira's words inspire his soldiers, and they resolve to continue fighting with renewed determination and courage.
48 Sanjaya describes the aftermath of the battle, where the warriors return to their encampment in the evening, covered in blood and grief. The field of battle is strewn with the bodies of elephants, horses, and men, and the earth is beautiful yet awful in its devastation. The sun sets, taking away the splendor of the weapons and armor, and the field is left with the sounds of carnivorous birds and beasts feasting on the dead. A river of blood flows through the field, with cars and elephants as rocks and human heads as smaller stones. The Pisachas and Rakshasas rejoice in the stream, drinking and eating the flesh of the dead. The warriors gaze upon the field, where Abhimanyu lies dead, his ornaments displaced, and slowly leave the field, beholding the devastation. The scene is one of utter chaos and destruction, with the sounds of wailing and lamentation filling the air. The earth is drenched in blood, and the bodies of the fallen are left to rot. The river of blood flows like a dark and foreboding presence, a reminder of the horrors of war. The warriors are left to mourn the loss of their comrades, and the field of battle is left to its eerie silence.
49 Sanjaya describes the Pandava warriors' profound grief after Abhimanyu's tragic death. King Yudhishthira is consumed by sorrow and regret, feeling responsible for the young hero's fate. He laments, recalling Abhimanyu's remarkable bravery and accomplishments on the battlefield. Yudhishthira remembers how Abhimanyu pierced Drona's formidable array and defeated numerous skilled bowmen, displaying unwavering courage and determination. He grieves, thinking of how he will face Arjuna and Subhadra, and how he has brought immense evil upon them. Yudhishthira regrets placing Abhimanyu in such danger, a child unskilled in battle, and laments his own folly and covetousness. He praises Arjuna's remarkable feats, remembering how he slew the Nivatakavachas and Kalakeyas, and acknowledges Arjuna's unrivaled energy and prowess. Yudhishthira fears Arjuna's wrath and the impending extermination of the Kauravas, knowing that Duryodhana's mean-mindedness will ultimately lead to his downfall. He concludes that even victory, sovereignty, or immortality would not delight him, seeing Abhimanyu lying dead, and the Pandava warriors surrounding him in sorrow.
50 Sanjaya describes Yudhishthira's lamentations over Abhimanyu's death. The great Rishi Krishna Dwaipayana (Vyasa) arrives and comforts Yudhishthira, saying that even the wisest people like him can be overcome with grief. Vyasa tells Yudhishthira that Death is inevitable and takes everyone, regardless of strength or wisdom. Yudhishthira asks about the origin of Death and why it takes creatures away. Vyasa begins to tell the story of King Akampana, who was grief-stricken over his son's death and sought answers from the celestial Rishi Narada. Narada tells Akampana the story of how Brahma created the universe and then sought to destroy it when he saw no signs of decay. Brahma's anger created a fire that spread everywhere, consuming all creatures. Sthanu (Siva) appealed to Brahma to stop the destruction, and Brahma asked Sthanu what he desired. Vyasa continues the story, saying that Sthanu asked Brahma to create a means of destruction that would not be dependent on his wrath. Brahma created Death, which would take away creatures at the appointed time. Vyasa tells Yudhishthira that this story should free him from sorrow and the ties of affection.
51 Sthanu appeals to Brahma to stop the destruction of the universe, filled with compassion for the creatures. Brahma explains that he was urged by the Earth to destroy the creatures, but could not find a means. Rudra asks Brahma to be inclined to grace and not destroy the universe. Brahma's wrath subsides, and he extinguishes the fire. A female figure, Death, emerges from his body and is instructed by Brahma to slay all creatures. Death weeps at this command, and Brahma catches her tears, imploring her to carry out her duty. Death is born from Brahma's wrath and is tasked with destroying all creatures, including the wise and the foolish.
52 Narada continues the story of Death, who was created by Brahma to destroy creatures. However, Death was hesitant and feared unrighteousness, knowing that taking lives would be a cruel and evil act. She appealed to Brahma, seeking his protection and wishing to undergo ascetic penances instead. Brahma reassured her that she would not be at fault and that creatures would be responsible for their own destruction. He explained that diseases and passions would be the true causes of death, not Death herself. Despite her reservations, Death underwent severe austerities, seeking to avoid her duty. She stood on one leg for billions of years, practicing rigid vows and emaciating her body. She wandered the earth, living on air and water, and practiced austerities at various sacred sites. Eventually, Brahma granted her boon, allowing her to slay creatures without sin. Narada advises Yudhishthira to cast off grief, reflecting on the duties of a Kshatriya and the blessed state of heroes like Abhimanyu, who attained heaven after a heroic battle. He encourages Yudhishthira to muster his fortitude and set out for battle, inflamed with rage, alongside his brothers.
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55 Sanjaya tells Yudhishthira about King Srinjaya, who had a son named Suvarnashthivin born to him with a boon from Narada that his urine, excreta, phlegm, and sweat would be gold. The king's wealth increased, and his son's body was made of gold. The king's houses, walls, forts, and utensils were all made of gold. However, robbers killed the prince, and the gold disappeared. Srinjaya lamented, and Narada appeared, telling him that even great kings like Marutta, who performed many sacrifices and gave away vast wealth, had to die. Marutta's wealth was given away to Brahmanas, and he ruled his kingdom for a thousand years before dying. Narada consoles Srinjaya, saying that he should not grieve for his son, who performed no sacrifices or good deeds. Narada reminds Srinjaya that Marutta, who was superior to him in ascetic penances, truth, compassion, and liberality, also died. Narada encourages Srinjaya to follow Marutta's example and perform good deeds, for death is inevitable.
56 Narada said, "King Suhotra, a virtuous and liberal hero, fell prey to death. He was invincible in battle and adored by the gods. He ruled the earth, freeing it from enemies, and performed many sacrifices, making abundant presents to Brahmanas. The deity of clouds showered gold upon him, and his kingdom was filled with golden rivers, lakes, and objects of desire. He performed a thousand Horse-sacrifices, a hundred Rajasuyas, and many other sacrifices, giving away unlimited wealth to Brahmanas. He ultimately obtained a desirable end. When such a king, superior to you in the four cardinal virtues, died, you should not grieve for your son, who performed no sacrifices or good deeds. King Suhotra's wealth and accomplishments were unmatched, and his kingdom was a golden age. He ruled with virtue and liberality, and his death was a testament to the inevitability of fate. Do not grieve for your son, who did not follow in the footsteps of great kings like Suhotra."
57 Narada said, "King Paurava, a heroic king, fell prey to death. He gave away thousands of white horses and countless gifts at his Horse-sacrifice, which was attended by many learned Brahmanas. He gave them costly presents, including robes, houses, and gold, and delighted them with actors, dancers, and singers. He also gave away elephants, cars, maidens, and thousands of other precious items. The king performed many auspicious sacrifices, yielding every object of desire. He gave away kine with golden horns, female and male slaves, and diverse gems. His sacrifices were capable of yielding every object of desire, and he successively performed many sacrifices, according to his merit and class. When such a king, superior to you in the four cardinal virtues, died, you should not grieve for your son, who performed no sacrifices or good deeds. King Paurava's generosity and accomplishments were unmatched, and his death was a testament to the inevitability of fate. His legacy lived on, and his story was sung by those acquainted with the history of the past. Do not grieve for your son, who did not follow in the footsteps of great kings like Paurava."
58 Narada said, "King Sivi, son of Usinara, fell prey to death. He was a powerful king who had subdued the earth and performed many grand Horse-sacrifices, giving away immense wealth, including a thousand crores of golden nishkas, elephants, steeds, and other animals. He gave away the earth itself to the Brahmanas and an infinite number of kine, equaling the number of raindrops, stars, or sand-grains. His sacrifices were extraordinary, with gold stakes, carpets, and houses, and abundant food and drink. The Creator himself has not met or will meet another king like Sivi, who had acquired enormous wealth and performed many righteous deeds. Rudra granted him a boon, making his wealth, devotion, fame, and religious acts inexhaustible. Even Sivi, with all his righteous deeds, left this world for heaven when his time came. His legacy was unparalleled, and his story was a testament to the inevitability of fate. Do not grieve for your son, who did not perform sacrifices or good deeds, when a king like Sivi, who was superior to you and your son, has also died. His example should inspire you to follow in his footsteps and perform great deeds."
59 Narada said, "Rama, son of Dasaratha, fell prey to death. He was a king of immeasurable energy and countless virtues, who delighted his subjects. He lived in the woods for fourteen years, slew fourteen thousand Rakshasas, and later killed Ravana, who had abducted his wife. The celestials worshipped Rama, who performed a hundred Horse-sacrifices and conquered hunger, thirst, and disease. He outshone all creatures, and his kingdom was free from calamities. His subjects were long-lived, and none died in youth. The dwellers of heaven were gratified, and the subjects were engaged in righteous acts. Rama ruled for eleven thousand years, and his name was always uttered. He established his line on earth and went to heaven, taking his subjects with him. When such a king, superior to you and your son, has died, do not lament for your son, who performed no sacrifices or good deeds."
60 Narada said, "King Bhagiratha, descendant of Ikshvaku, was dead. He covered the shores of Ganga with golden steps and gave thousands of ornamented damsels to Brahmanas, along with cars, steeds, kine, goats, and sheep. Ganga, afflicted, sat on his lap and was regarded as his daughter. Gandharvas sang about this in the presence of Rishis, gods, and humans. Bhagiratha, performer of sacrifices with profuse gifts, was selected by Ganga as her father. His sacrifices were graced by the gods, and he gave Brahmanas whatever they desired. He ascended to the region of Brahman through the grace of Brahmanas. Rishis waited upon him as they waited upon the sun. When such a king, superior to you and your son, has died, do not lament for your son, who performed no sacrifices or good deeds. Bhagiratha's sacrifices were extraordinary, and his generosity was unparalleled. He was a true ornament of the three worlds."
61 Narada said, "King Dilipa, son of Havila, fell prey to death. He performed numerous sacrifices, attended by countless Brahmanas, and gave away the earth, filled with treasures, to them. The roads at his sacrifices were made of gold, and the gods, including Indra, attended them. Dilipa's sacrificial stake had golden rings, and his car's wheels never sank in water. His abode, Khattanga, was filled with the sounds of Vedic recitations, bow twangs, and invitations to drink, enjoy, and eat. When such a king, superior to you and your son, has died, do not grieve for your son, who performed no sacrifices or good deeds. Dilipa was a firm bowman, truthful in speech, and generous in gifts. His sacrifices were extraordinary, and his legacy was unparalleled. Even those who saw him were able to ascend to heaven. Do not lament for your son, who did not follow in Dilipa's footsteps."
62 Narada said, "Mandhatri, son of Yuvanaswa, fell prey to death. He was a remarkable king who vanquished gods, Asuras, and men. His birth was extraordinary, as the twin Aswins extracted him from his father's womb through a surgical operation. Indra showed him kindness, and he sucked milk from Indra's fingers, earning him the name Mandhatri. He grew rapidly, conquering the entire earth in a single day, and performed many sacrifices, giving away gold and food to Brahmanas. His sacrifices were grand and extravagant, with mountains of food, rivers of clarified butter, and diverse kinds of soup. Many attended his sacrifices, including gods, Asuras, men, and Brahmanas. King Mandhatri bestowed the earth upon the Brahmanas and disappeared like the sun, filling all points with his fame. He excelled in the four cardinal virtues, and his legacy surpassed yours and your son's. His story is a testament to his greatness, and his name is remembered even today. Do not grieve for your son, who performed no sacrifices or good deeds, when such a king as Mandhatri has passed on."
63 Narada said, "Yayati, son of Nahusha, fell prey to death. He performed numerous sacrifices, making profuse gifts to Brahmanas, and gave away wealth from Mlecchas and Brahmana-hating people. He aided the gods in battle and divided the earth into four parts, giving it away to four persons. He performed various sacrifices, begot excellent offspring, and roamed the celestial woods like a second Vasava. Acquainted with all Vedas, he found that his passions were not satiated and retired into the forest with his wives, saying that no amount of wealth was sufficient for one man. He cultivated contentment, abandoned desires, and installed his son on the throne before retiring. When he died, do not grieve for your son, who performed no sacrifices or good deeds, when such a king as Yayati has passed on. He was superior to you and your son in the four cardinal virtues."
64 Narada said, "Amvarisha, son of Nabhaga, fell prey to death. He single-handedly battled a thousand kings, cutting off their umbrellas, weapons, and standards with his skill and strength. His enemies surrendered, seeking mercy, and he reduced them to subjection, conquering the earth. He performed a hundred excellent sacrifices, worshiping Brahmanas and feeding large classes of people with diverse kinds of food and drink. The regenerate classes enjoyed sweet-meats, dainties, and various delicacies, including Purikas, Apupas, and Sashkalis. King Amvarisha gave sacrificial presents, including kingdoms, princes, and kings, to the ten million priests employed by him. The great Rishis were highly gratified, saying none in past or future could match his liberality. They praised him, 'None amongst men in past times did, none in future will be able to do, what king Amvarisha of profuse liberality is doing now.' When he died, do not grieve for your son, who performed no sacrifices or good deeds, when such a king as Amvarisha has passed on. He was superior to you and your son in the four cardinal virtues, and his legacy will live on."
65 Narada said, "King Sasavindu, O Srinjaya, fell prey to death. He was a great warrior and performed many sacrifices. He had 100,000 wives, each bearing 1,000 sons, who were all skilled in the Vedas and performed many sacrifices. Sasavindu gave away his sons as sacrificial presents to the Brahmanas. Each son was accompanied by hundreds of cars, elephants, and maidens adorned with gold. The king gave away unlimited wealth in his Horse-sacrifice, including gold stakes, food, and drink. Thirteen mountains of food and drink remained untouched after the sacrifice. His kingdom was prosperous, contented, and happy. Sasavindu ruled for many years before ascending to heaven. When he died, do not grieve for your son, who performed no sacrifices or good deeds, when such a king as Sasavindu has passed on. He was superior to you and your son in the four cardinal virtues."
66 Narada said, "Gaya, son of Amartarayas, fell prey to death. He ate only leftovers from sacrifices for 100 years, pleasing Agni, who offered him a boon. Gaya asked for knowledge, wealth, and the ability to make gifts and procreate sons. Agni granted his wishes and disappeared. Gaya acquired all he asked for, subdued his foes, and performed various sacrifices with profuse presents to Brahmanas. He gave away wealth, kine, steeds, and gold every year for a century. His great Horse-sacrifice featured a golden earth given to Brahmanas, with costly stakes and presents. All creatures were gratified with wealth and food distributed at his sacrifices. His sacrificial altar was made of gold, pearls, and diamonds, and he gave it away to Brahmanas. Five and twenty hills of food remained untouched after the sacrifice. Due to his merit, Gaya became well-known in the three worlds. When he died, do not grieve for your son, who performed no sacrifices or good deeds, when such a king as Gaya has passed on."
67 Narada said, "Rantideva, son of Srinjaya, fell prey to death. He had 200,000 cooks distributing excellent food to Brahmanas day and night. He gave away wealth, acquired by righteous means, and subjugated his foes in fair fight. Countless animals were sacrificed in his Agnihotra, and he gave away nishkas of bright gold to Brahmanas. He thought he had given away very little, even after giving away one crore of coins in a day. For a hundred years, he gave away golden bulls, kine, and nishkas to thousands of Brahmanas every fortnight. He gave away all articles needed for his Agnihotra and other sacrifices, including utensils and mansions. People wondered at his superhuman affluence, saying they had not seen such accumulated treasures even in the abode of Kuvera. When he died, do not grieve for your son, who performed no sacrifices or good deeds, when such a king as Rantideva has passed on."
68 Narada said, "Bharata, son of Dushmanta, fell prey to death. As a child living in the forest, he achieved incredible feats, showcasing his remarkable strength. He subdued fierce lions, tigers, and elephants, binding them and bringing them under his control. His mother, Sakuntala, eventually forbade him from torturing animals in this way. Bharata went on to perform numerous grand sacrifices, including a thousand Horse-sacrifices and a hundred Rajasuyas, and gave generous gifts to the Brahmanas. He was a monarch never conquered by any enemy, and his superior virtues and deeds far surpassed those of your son. Bharata's sacrifices were renowned, with the gods themselves attending and setting up his golden sacrificial stake. He gave away immense wealth, including gold, horses, elephants, camels, and other treasures, to the Brahmanas. His generosity and strength earned him great fame, and when he died, it was a loss for the world. Do not grieve for your son, who performed no sacrifices or good deeds, when such a king as Bharata has passed on."
69 Narada said, "Vena's son, King Prithu, fell prey to death. He was installed as Emperor in the Rajasuya sacrifice and vanquished all, earning the name Prithu. He protected his people, making him a true Kshatriya. His subjects loved him, and he became known as Raja. During his reign, the earth yielded crops without cultivation, and all people were happy and healthy. The trees, mountains, gods, and others came to him, asking for boons. He took his bow and arrows, and the Earth yielded milk, which became the food they desired. The creatures milked the Earth, each getting what they wanted. Prithu performed various sacrifices, gratifying all creatures, and gave away golden images and the earth itself to the Brahmanas. When he died, do not grieve for your son, who performed no sacrifices or good deeds, when such a king as Prithu has passed on."
70 Narada said, "The great ascetic Rama, son of Jamadagni, will die, despite his unmatched prosperity and virtues. He rooted out evil from the earth and caused the primeval Yuga to set in. He slew many Kshatriyas, including Kartavirya, and thousands of others who had never been vanquished before. His wrath was ignited by the slaughter of his father and the theft of his calf. He performed a hundred sacrifices, giving away the earth to Kasyapa, and divesting it of Kshatriyas twenty-one times. He gave away many elephants and filled lakes with the blood of his enemies. At Kasyapa's command, he left the earth and lived on Mount Mahendra. Even such a virtuous hero will die. Do not grieve for your son, who performed no sacrifices or good deeds, when such great men have passed on."
71 Vyasa said, "King Srinjaya remained silent, his grief dispelled by the stories of sixteen kings who had performed great sacrifices and given profuse presents to the Brahmanas. Narada asked if he had understood, and Srinjaya replied that he was cleansed of his sins and felt no pain, like the darkness dispelled by the rays of the sun. Narada offered to grant him a boon, and Srinjaya asked for his son back, who had been fruitlessly slain by robbers. Narada brought the son back to life, and Srinjaya was overjoyed, performing many meritorious sacrifices and giving away profuse presents. Vyasa explained that Abhimanyu, unlike Srinjaya's son, had fulfilled his life's purpose and was in heaven, having attained the eternal goal that is attained by yogins, performers of great sacrifices, and people possessed of great ascetic merit. Vyasa advised Yudhishthira to be quiet, slay his foes, and strive for the benefit of the dead, for grief is painful and the living stand in need of grief, not those who have attained heaven. Vyasa disappeared, leaving Yudhishthira consoled and freed from grief, but still wondering what to tell Arjuna about his son Abhimanyu."
72 Sanjaya said, "Arjuna was overcome with grief and asked Krishna if everything was right with his brother and friends. Krishna reassured him, but Arjuna was anxious about his son Abhimanyu. Upon entering the camp, Arjuna saw that everyone was cheerless and melancholy. He asked if Abhimanyu was alive, and upon learning of his death, he was consumed by grief. Arjuna lamented that he had not taught Abhimanyu how to escape the circular array and wondered who had killed him. He described Abhimanyu's bravery and virtues, saying he was dear to him, Kesava, and Draupadi. Arjuna wished to go to the abode of Yama if he did not see Abhimanyu. He asked Yudhishthira how Abhimanyu had died and why no one had protected him. Arjuna felt that his own manliness and prowess had been futile. Vasudeva consoled Arjuna, saying that death in battle was the goal of brave heroes and that Abhimanyu had ascended to a noble region. Arjuna desired to hear how Abhimanyu had fought and vowed to exterminate the foe. Yudhishthira tried to comfort Arjuna, saying that none could venture to look at or speak to him in his grief, except Vasudeva or himself."
73 Yudhishthira described how Abhimanyu, Arjuna's son, had fought valiantly and penetrated the enemy's array, but was eventually surrounded and killed. Arjuna was filled with grief and rage, and vowed to kill Jayadratha, the king of the Sindhus, who had prevented the Pandavas from rescuing Abhimanyu. Arjuna swore that if he did not kill Jayadratha the next day, he would enter the blazing fire and end his life. He declared that he would cut off Jayadratha's head with a hundred arrows, even if he had to pursue him to the heavens or the nether regions. Arjuna then stretched his bow, Gandiva, and blew his conch, Devadatta, producing a loud sound that shook the universe. Krishna, filled with wrath, blew his conch, Panchajanya, and the Pandava camp erupted in a loud din of musical instruments and leonine roars. Arjuna's oath was a solemn promise to avenge his son's death and demonstrate his unwavering commitment to justice.
74 Sanjaya told Dhritarashtra that when Jayadratha learned of Arjuna's vow to kill him, he was overwhelmed with sorrow and fear. Jayadratha went to the assembly of kings and asked for their protection, saying that even the gods and Gandharvas couldn't baffle Arjuna's vow. Duryodhana comforted Jayadratha, saying that he would be protected by many great warriors, including Karna, Drona, and others. Jayadratha then asked Drona about his proficiency in arms compared to Arjuna's. Drona replied that both had received the same instruction, but Arjuna's yoga and austere life made him superior. However, Drona promised to protect Jayadratha and form an array that Arjuna couldn't pierce. Drona encouraged Jayadratha to fight bravely, saying that death was not to be feared, as it would bring him good fortune and a place in heaven. With his fear banished, Jayadratha set his heart on battle, and the Kuru troops felt delight and shouted leonine roars.
75 Sanjaya told Dhritarashtra that after Arjuna vowed to kill Jayadratha, Krishna criticized Arjuna for acting rashly without consulting him. Krishna had learned from spies that the Kauravas were terrified and preparing for battle. Jayadratha, grief-stricken and fearful, sought protection from Duryodhana and the allied kings. He noted that even the gods and Gandharvas couldn't frustrate Arjuna's vow and asked to be protected or allowed to return home. Duryodhana, cheerless and silent, reflected on the situation. Jayadratha expressed his fear of Arjuna, who had previously defeated Maheswara and slain a thousand Danavas. He asked Duryodhana to grant him permission to leave or arrange for his protection. Duryodhana humbly asked Drona for help, and six warriors, including Karna and Drona's son, were assigned to protect Jayadratha. Drona formed an array with a needle-mouthed formation to shield Jayadratha. Krishna warned Arjuna that these six warriors were formidable and difficult to defeat, and advised him to reconsider his strategy.
76 Arjuna boasts to Krishna that he will effortlessly defeat the six warriors protecting Jayadratha, including the formidable Drona. He swears by his weapons that he will kill Jayadratha the next day, even if all the gods and creatures protect him. Arjuna vows to pierce through Drona's formation and reach Jayadratha, and promises to gratify the cannibals and gladden his friends. He declares that his celestial bow, Gandiva, and his own strength make him unbeatable. Arjuna asserts that he will vanquish all who come to protect Jayadratha, including the mighty Drona, and that his shafts will deprive thousands of men and animals of life. He asks Krishna not to underestimate his weapons or his arms, and says that his vow is as good as accomplished. Arjuna's speech is full of bravado and confidence in his own abilities, and he asks Krishna to ensure his chariot is well-equipped for the battle ahead. He affirms that his victory is certain, and that Jayadratha's fate is sealed.
77 Sanjaya describes the ominous signs that appeared on the night before the battle, foreboding a great loss of life. Vasudeva and Dhananjaya were both grief-stricken and sleepless that night, their minds consumed by sorrow and anxiety. The gods were anxious, and the earth and seas were disturbed, as if sensing the impending calamity. Fierce winds blew, and a headless trunk and a mace appeared on the disc of the sun. The rivers ran in directions opposite to their usual course, and the animals on the field ejected urine and excreta, uttering loud cries of woe. Vasudeva comforts his sister Subhadra, who was grieving for her son Abhimanyu. He tells her that Abhimanyu's death was heroic and that he achieved a coveted end for a Kshatriya. Vasudeva assures her that the ruler of Sindhu, who killed Abhimanyu, will also meet his end soon. He advises Subhadra to drive away her grief and tells her that she will hear agreeable news the next day, as Arjuna's vow to kill Jayadratha will be accomplished. Vasudeva's words were meant to comfort Subhadra, but they also revealed his own anxiety and determination for the battle ahead.
78 Subhadra lamented the death of her son Abhimanyu, describing his beauty and bravery. She wondered how he could have been killed in battle, despite being protected by the Pandavas and Panchalas. She longed to see his face again and comforted his young wife, who was overwhelmed with grief. Subhadra praised Abhimanyu's virtues and wished for him to attain the same end as those who perform sacrifices, are brave in battle, and are devoted to their duties. She described the ideal end for a warrior like Abhimanyu, who was unretreating and had fallen in battle. Subhadra's lamentations revealed her deep sorrow and sense of loss, as she struggled to come to terms with the death of her beloved son. Krishna consoled Subhadra, telling her not to grieve and that Abhimanyu had obtained a laudable goal. He encouraged her to console Uttara and praised Abhimanyu's achievement in battle. Krishna's words were meant to comfort Subhadra, but they also revealed his own sense of sorrow and loss. He had lost a nephew, a brave warrior, and a dear friend. The sorrow in the Pandava camp was palpable, and Krishna's words were a reminder that even in the midst of war, there was still room for grief and compassion.
79 Sanjaya describes how Krishna, after performing his nightly rituals, lay down on his bed and thought about ways to help Arjuna fulfill his vow to kill Jayadratha. Krishna, determined to help his cousin, decided to take action to ensure Arjuna's success. He knew that Arjuna's vow was a difficult one, as Jayadratha was well-protected by Drona and Duryodhana. However, Krishna was confident in his own abilities and vowed to use his strength to help Arjuna defeat Jayadratha and his protectors. Krishna woke up in the middle of the night and instructed his charioteer, Daruka, to prepare his chariot and weapons for battle the next day. He ordered Daruka to equip his chariot with his celestial mace, discus, bow, and arrows, and to yoke his steeds, Valahaka, Meghapushpa, Saivya, and Sugriva, to the chariot. Krishna declared that he would not let Arjuna die and that the earth would not be deprived of Arjuna's presence. Krishna expressed his devotion to Arjuna, saying that he was half of himself and that he would do everything in his power to ensure Arjuna's victory. He told Daruka that he would dispel Arjuna's wrath and woes and that Arjuna would surely succeed in slaying Jayadratha with his help. Daruka responded by expressing his confidence in Krishna's ability to secure Arjuna's victory, saying that with Krishna as his charioteer, Arjuna was certain to win.
80 Sanjaya describes a dream in which Krishna appears to Arjuna and encourages him to fulfill his vow to kill Jayadratha. Krishna tells Arjuna that he will help him accomplish his goal and reveals the existence of a powerful weapon called Pasupata, which was used by Maheswara to slay the Daityas. Arjuna is instructed to meditate on Maheswara and remember the weapon. In his meditation, Arjuna sees himself journeying through the sky with Krishna to various sacred places, including the White mountain, the Mandara mountains, and the region of Kuvera. They eventually arrive at the foot of a blazing mountain, where they behold Maheswara, the god having the bull for his mark, seated with Parvati and many creatures. Krishna and Arjuna adore Maheswara with hymns and seek his protection. Maheswara welcomes them and offers to grant their desires. Krishna and Arjuna request the Pasupata weapon and praise Maheswara with a long hymn, bowing to his various forms and attributes.
81 Sanjaya describes Arjuna's encounter with the god Shiva, who grants him the celestial weapon Pasupata. Arjuna, with a cheerful soul and joined hands, gazes at Shiva and sees the offerings he made to Vasudeva lying by the god's side. Arjuna mentally worships both Krishna and Shiva, and asks for the celestial weapon. Shiva, knowing their wish, welcomes them and sends them to a celestial lake to retrieve his bow and arrow. Accompanied by Shiva's attendants, they approach the lake, where they see a terrible snake that transforms into a bow and arrow. They praise Shiva with Vedic hymns, and a Brahmacharin appears, takes the bow, and shoots an arrow into the lake. Arjuna learns the proper technique for using the bow and receives the Pasupata weapon from Shiva. With the weapon, Arjuna feels his goal is already achieved. He and Krishna pay their respects to Shiva, thanking him for the boon, and return to their camp, filled with joy and transports of delight, comparable to that of Indra and Vishnu when they obtained Shiva's permission to slay Jambha.
       
3 Jayadratha-Vadha 80 370.2 5:09
82 Sanjaya describes the morning routine of King Yudhishthira, who rises from bed to the sound of music and singing. He bathes, performs prayers, and worships the fire, then meets with Brahmanas and makes offerings to them. He also makes presents to them, including gold, horses, and robes. The king then sees and touches various auspicious items, including Swastikas and Nandyavartas, and is presented with costly ornaments. He takes his seat on a golden throne, and his servants fan him with yak-tails. Bards sing his praises, and panegyrists utter his eulogies. The king's beauty is enhanced by his ornaments, and his presence is accompanied by a loud noise of conchs, drums, and other instruments. The earth seems to tremble with the sound of car-wheels, horse-hoofs, and elephants' bells. An orderly announces the arrival of Hrishikesa (Krishna), and the king orders his servants to prepare a seat and Arghya for him. Krishna is introduced and seated on a costly seat, and the king addresses him with the usual enquiries of welcome and worships him. The meeting between the two is filled with grandeur and ceremony, reflecting the importance and respect that they have for each other.
83 Sanjaya describes the meeting between King Yudhishthira and Krishna, where they exchange pleasantries and enquiries about each other's well-being. Yudhishthira addresses Krishna, relying on him for victory and happiness, and recounts their woes, including the loss of their kingdom and exile. He expresses his devotion to Krishna, acknowledging him as the supreme deity and savior of the Vrishnis. Krishna assures Yudhishthira that Arjuna, with his great strength and prowess, will slay their foes, including Jayadratha, the ruler of the Sindhus. Krishna vows to help Arjuna consume the enemy troops like a swelling conflagration, and predicts that Jayadratha will be slain and his flesh fed to carnivorous creatures. Even if the gods protect him, Jayadratha will still meet his end. Krishna encourages Yudhishthira to dispel his grief and fevered heart, promising prosperity and assuring him that Arjuna will emerge victorious. With Krishna's words, Yudhishthira's spirits are lifted, and he is filled with hope and confidence for the impending battle.
84 Sanjaya describes the meeting between Yudhishthira, Vasudeva, and Arjuna, where they converse and exchange pleasantries. Arjuna enters and salutes the king, who rises and embraces him affectionately, smelling his head and blessing him heartily. Yudhishthira predicts Arjuna's victory in battle, judging by his bright countenance and the fact that Janardana is well-pleased with him. Arjuna relates his wonderful encounter with the Three-eyed god, and the group proceeds to battle, filled with rage against the foe. Krishna and Satyaki accompany Arjuna to his pavilion, where Krishna equips Arjuna's chariot with great care, adorning it with golden ornaments. Arjuna, clad in golden armor, circumambulates the chariot and is blessed by Brahmanas, who perform religious rites and sacrifices. He ascends the chariot, accompanied by Krishna and Satyaki, and they proceed to battle, resembling the twin Aswins riding with Indra. The scene is filled with auspicious omens, including a fragrant breeze, the sound of musical instruments, and the voices of panegyrists and bards uttering benedictions of victory. Arjuna expresses his confidence in victory and entrusts Satyaki with the protection of Yudhishthira, knowing that he is equal to Vasudeva himself in battle.
85 Dhritarashtra laments the slaughter of Abhimanyu and wonders how the Kauravas can remain fearless after perpetrating such a wrong. He asks Sanjaya how they can venture to gaze at Arjuna, who is burning with grief and fury. Dhritarashtra recalls his own warnings to Duryodhana to make peace with the Pandavas, but Duryodhana rejected his counsel and that of others, embracing calamity instead. He notes that the Pandavas are righteous and deserving of happiness, and that they will never deviate from the path of righteousness. Dhritarashtra lists the many heroes who are on the Pandava side, including Vrikodara, Arjuna, Satyaki, and others, and wonders who among the Kauravas can resist them. He concludes that Duryodhana's actions are the result of the mischievous influence of Time and his own wicked understanding.
86 Sanjaya tells Dhritarashtra that he will recount everything he has witnessed, but notes that Dhritarashtra's lamentations are useless and that he should not grieve. Sanjaya reminds Dhritarashtra that he had the opportunity to prevent the war by restraining Yudhishthira and his sons, but failed to do so. He criticizes Dhritarashtra for following the counsel of Duryodhana, Karna, and Sakuni, and for not respecting the duties of a king. Sanjaya notes that Krishna once respected Dhritarashtra, but no longer does so since he has fallen from his duties as a king. He reminds Dhritarashtra that his sons had spoken harshly to the Pandavas, and that he had been indifferent to their actions. Sanjaya warns Dhritarashtra that the ancestral sovereignty is now in danger and that he should not censure his sons for their faults, but rather take action to prevent the destruction of their kingdom. Sanjaya also notes that the Pandavas have added to the kingdom and fame of the Kurus, but that Dhritarashtra's actions have deprived them of their ancestral kingdom. He praises the bravery of the Kshatriyas, who fight without regard for their lives, and wonders who else but the Kauravas would dare to fight against the force protected by Krishna and Arjuna.
87 Sanjaya describes the formation of Drona's army, with diverse sounds and warriors preparing for battle. Drona arrays his divisions, with Jayadratha and other great car-warriors stationed behind him. The army is immense, with thousands of horses, cars, elephants, and foot-soldiers. Drona forms a Sakata array, forty-eight miles long and twenty miles wide, with a lotus-shaped array within and a needle-shaped array at its center. Kritavarman, the ruler of the Kamvojas, and Duryodhana stand at the mouth of the needle, surrounded by heroes and protected by Jayadratha. Drona, clad in white armor, stands at the entrance of the Sakata, stretching his large bow. The Kauravas are delighted, and the Siddhas and Charanas are filled with wonder at the mighty array, which seems capable of devouring the whole earth.
88 Sanjaya describes the chaos and destruction on the battlefield as Arjuna and Krishna face off against Durmarshana and the Kuru army. The sound of conchs and horns fills the air, and the earth shakes as the warriors clash. Arjuna, filled with rage, covers his foes with showers of arrows, striking off the heads of car-warriors and causing chaos among the enemy ranks. The battlefield is strewn with bodies, heads, and limbs, and the sound of severed heads dropping on the earth is like the sound of falling fruits. The warriors of the Kuru army are filled with fear and confusion, striking one another or themselves in their panic. Arjuna's quickness and skill with his bow are too much for them, and they flee in terror, their understanding confused and their hearts filled with woe. The enemy warriors are unable to withstand Arjuna's prowess, and they fall before him like trees cut down by a mighty wind. The battlefield is a scene of utter carnage, with blood-soaked bodies and severed limbs strewn about. The sound of wailing and lamentation fills the air, and the earth is red with the blood of the fallen. Arjuna's chariot wheels are stained with blood and flesh, and his bow is constantly in motion, striking down foe after foe. The Kuru army is in disarray, and their warriors are fleeing in terror, unable to withstand the wrath of Arjuna.
89 Dhritarashtra asks who among his heroes fought Arjuna after the initial slaughter. Sanjaya describes how Duhsasana, filled with wrath, rushed against Arjuna with a large elephant force. Arjuna, with his lion-like roar, began to pierce and slay the elephants with his shafts. The sound of horses, car wheels, and musical instruments filled the air, and men and elephants were dispirited and lost their senses. Arjuna's shafts, like snakes with virulent poison, riven through the elephants, which fell like mountains shorn of their wings. Warriors were seen hanging from the elephants' bodies, divested of armor, and covered in blood. Arjuna cut off the heads of warriors with his straight arrows, and the heads fell like lotuses. Elephants, pierced with long shafts, fell, vomiting blood, with their riders on their backs. Partha's shafts cut into fragments the bow-strings, standards, and shafts of the car-warriors. None could notice when Arjuna took up his arrows or let them off, as he seemed to dance on his car with his bow drawn to a circle. The field of battle was strewn with innumerable bodies, and Duhsasana's forces fled, seeking Drona as their deliverer.
90 Sanjaya describes the battle between Arjuna and Drona. Arjuna approaches Drona, who is stationed at the entrance of the array, and requests his blessing to penetrate the impenetrable array. Drona, smiling, tells Arjuna that he must vanquish him first. Arjuna and Drona engage in a fierce battle, exchanging arrowy showers. Drona cuts off Arjuna's bow-string and pierces him with many shafts. Arjuna regains his strength and pierces Drona with many winged arrows. The battle rages on, with both warriors displaying their valor. Vasudeva reflects on the accomplishment of their task and tells Arjuna to proceed, avoiding Drona. Arjuna keeps Drona to his right and proceeds onwards, shooting his shafts. Drona addresses Arjuna, asking where he is going, and Arjuna replies that he will not cease fighting until he has vanquished his foe. However, he acknowledges that Drona is his preceptor and not his foe. Arjuna then proceeds against the Kaurava troops, followed by the princes of Panchala. Other warriors, including Jaya and Kritavarman, oppose Arjuna's progress, but he continues to advance, determined to slay Jayadratha.
81 Sanjaya describes Arjuna's encounter with the god Shiva, who grants him the celestial weapon Pasupata. Arjuna, with a cheerful soul and joined hands, gazes at Shiva and sees the offerings he made to Vasudeva lying by the god's side. Arjuna mentally worships both Krishna and Shiva, and asks for the celestial weapon. Shiva, knowing their wish, welcomes them and sends them to a celestial lake to retrieve his bow and arrow. Accompanied by Shiva's attendants, they approach the lake, where they see a terrible snake that transforms into a bow and arrow. They praise Shiva with Vedic hymns, and a Brahmacharin appears, takes the bow, and shoots an arrow into the lake. Arjuna learns the proper technique for using the bow and receives the Pasupata weapon from Shiva. With the weapon, Arjuna feels his goal is already achieved. He and Krishna pay their respects to Shiva, thanking him for the boon, and return to their camp, filled with joy and transports of delight, comparable to that of Indra and Vishnu when they obtained Shiva's permission to slay Jambha.
82 Sanjaya describes the morning routine of King Yudhishthira, who rises from bed to the sound of music and singing. He bathes, performs prayers, and worships the fire, then meets with Brahmanas and makes offerings to them. He also makes presents to them, including gold, horses, and robes. The king then sees and touches various auspicious items, including Swastikas and Nandyavartas, and is presented with costly ornaments. He takes his seat on a golden throne, and his servants fan him with yak-tails. Bards sing his praises, and panegyrists utter his eulogies. The king's beauty is enhanced by his ornaments, and his presence is accompanied by a loud noise of conchs, drums, and other instruments. The earth seems to tremble with the sound of car-wheels, horse-hoofs, and elephants' bells. An orderly announces the arrival of Hrishikesa (Krishna), and the king orders his servants to prepare a seat and Arghya for him. Krishna is introduced and seated on a costly seat, and the king addresses him with the usual enquiries of welcome and worships him. The meeting between the two is filled with grandeur and ceremony, reflecting the importance and respect that they have for each other.
83 Sanjaya describes the meeting between King Yudhishthira and Krishna, where they exchange pleasantries and enquiries about each other's well-being. Yudhishthira addresses Krishna, relying on him for victory and happiness, and recounts their woes, including the loss of their kingdom and exile. He expresses his devotion to Krishna, acknowledging him as the supreme deity and savior of the Vrishnis. Krishna assures Yudhishthira that Arjuna, with his great strength and prowess, will slay their foes, including Jayadratha, the ruler of the Sindhus. Krishna vows to help Arjuna consume the enemy troops like a swelling conflagration, and predicts that Jayadratha will be slain and his flesh fed to carnivorous creatures. Even if the gods protect him, Jayadratha will still meet his end. Krishna encourages Yudhishthira to dispel his grief and fevered heart, promising prosperity and assuring him that Arjuna will emerge victorious. With Krishna's words, Yudhishthira's spirits are lifted, and he is filled with hope and confidence for the impending battle.
84 Sanjaya describes the meeting between Yudhishthira, Vasudeva, and Arjuna, where they converse and exchange pleasantries. Arjuna enters and salutes the king, who rises and embraces him affectionately, smelling his head and blessing him heartily. Yudhishthira predicts Arjuna's victory in battle, judging by his bright countenance and the fact that Janardana is well-pleased with him. Arjuna relates his wonderful encounter with the Three-eyed god, and the group proceeds to battle, filled with rage against the foe. Krishna and Satyaki accompany Arjuna to his pavilion, where Krishna equips Arjuna's chariot with great care, adorning it with golden ornaments. Arjuna, clad in golden armor, circumambulates the chariot and is blessed by Brahmanas, who perform religious rites and sacrifices. He ascends the chariot, accompanied by Krishna and Satyaki, and they proceed to battle, resembling the twin Aswins riding with Indra. The scene is filled with auspicious omens, including a fragrant breeze, the sound of musical instruments, and the voices of panegyrists and bards uttering benedictions of victory. Arjuna expresses his confidence in victory and entrusts Satyaki with the protection of Yudhishthira, knowing that he is equal to Vasudeva himself in battle.
85 Dhritarashtra laments the slaughter of Abhimanyu and wonders how the Kauravas can remain fearless after perpetrating such a wrong. He asks Sanjaya how they can venture to gaze at Arjuna, who is burning with grief and fury. Dhritarashtra recalls his own warnings to Duryodhana to make peace with the Pandavas, but Duryodhana rejected his counsel and that of others, embracing calamity instead. He notes that the Pandavas are righteous and deserving of happiness, and that they will never deviate from the path of righteousness. Dhritarashtra lists the many heroes who are on the Pandava side, including Vrikodara, Arjuna, Satyaki, and others, and wonders who among the Kauravas can resist them. He concludes that Duryodhana's actions are the result of the mischievous influence of Time and his own wicked understanding.
86 Sanjaya tells Dhritarashtra that he will recount everything he has witnessed, but notes that Dhritarashtra's lamentations are useless and that he should not grieve. Sanjaya reminds Dhritarashtra that he had the opportunity to prevent the war by restraining Yudhishthira and his sons, but failed to do so. He criticizes Dhritarashtra for following the counsel of Duryodhana, Karna, and Sakuni, and for not respecting the duties of a king. Sanjaya notes that Krishna once respected Dhritarashtra, but no longer does so since he has fallen from his duties as a king. He reminds Dhritarashtra that his sons had spoken harshly to the Pandavas, and that he had been indifferent to their actions. Sanjaya warns Dhritarashtra that the ancestral sovereignty is now in danger and that he should not censure his sons for their faults, but rather take action to prevent the destruction of their kingdom. Sanjaya also notes that the Pandavas have added to the kingdom and fame of the Kurus, but that Dhritarashtra's actions have deprived them of their ancestral kingdom. He praises the bravery of the Kshatriyas, who fight without regard for their lives, and wonders who else but the Kauravas would dare to fight against the force protected by Krishna and Arjuna.
87 Sanjaya describes the formation of Drona's army, with diverse sounds and warriors preparing for battle. Drona arrays his divisions, with Jayadratha and other great car-warriors stationed behind him. The army is immense, with thousands of horses, cars, elephants, and foot-soldiers. Drona forms a Sakata array, forty-eight miles long and twenty miles wide, with a lotus-shaped array within and a needle-shaped array at its center. Kritavarman, the ruler of the Kamvojas, and Duryodhana stand at the mouth of the needle, surrounded by heroes and protected by Jayadratha. Drona, clad in white armor, stands at the entrance of the Sakata, stretching his large bow. The Kauravas are delighted, and the Siddhas and Charanas are filled with wonder at the mighty array, which seems capable of devouring the whole earth.
88 Sanjaya describes the chaos and destruction on the battlefield as Arjuna and Krishna face off against Durmarshana and the Kuru army. The sound of conchs and horns fills the air, and the earth shakes as the warriors clash. Arjuna, filled with rage, covers his foes with showers of arrows, striking off the heads of car-warriors and causing chaos among the enemy ranks. The battlefield is strewn with bodies, heads, and limbs, and the sound of severed heads dropping on the earth is like the sound of falling fruits. The warriors of the Kuru army are filled with fear and confusion, striking one another or themselves in their panic. Arjuna's quickness and skill with his bow are too much for them, and they flee in terror, their understanding confused and their hearts filled with woe. The enemy warriors are unable to withstand Arjuna's prowess, and they fall before him like trees cut down by a mighty wind. The battlefield is a scene of utter carnage, with blood-soaked bodies and severed limbs strewn about. The sound of wailing and lamentation fills the air, and the earth is red with the blood of the fallen. Arjuna's chariot wheels are stained with blood and flesh, and his bow is constantly in motion, striking down foe after foe. The Kuru army is in disarray, and their warriors are fleeing in terror, unable to withstand the wrath of Arjuna.
89 Dhritarashtra asks who among his heroes fought Arjuna after the initial slaughter. Sanjaya describes how Duhsasana, filled with wrath, rushed against Arjuna with a large elephant force. Arjuna, with his lion-like roar, began to pierce and slay the elephants with his shafts. The sound of horses, car wheels, and musical instruments filled the air, and men and elephants were dispirited and lost their senses. Arjuna's shafts, like snakes with virulent poison, riven through the elephants, which fell like mountains shorn of their wings. Warriors were seen hanging from the elephants' bodies, divested of armor, and covered in blood. Arjuna cut off the heads of warriors with his straight arrows, and the heads fell like lotuses. Elephants, pierced with long shafts, fell, vomiting blood, with their riders on their backs. Partha's shafts cut into fragments the bow-strings, standards, and shafts of the car-warriors. None could notice when Arjuna took up his arrows or let them off, as he seemed to dance on his car with his bow drawn to a circle. The field of battle was strewn with innumerable bodies, and Duhsasana's forces fled, seeking Drona as their deliverer.
90 Sanjaya describes the battle between Arjuna and Drona. Arjuna approaches Drona, who is stationed at the entrance of the array, and requests his blessing to penetrate the impenetrable array. Drona, smiling, tells Arjuna that he must vanquish him first. Arjuna and Drona engage in a fierce battle, exchanging arrowy showers. Drona cuts off Arjuna's bow-string and pierces him with many shafts. Arjuna regains his strength and pierces Drona with many winged arrows. The battle rages on, with both warriors displaying their valor. Vasudeva reflects on the accomplishment of their task and tells Arjuna to proceed, avoiding Drona. Arjuna keeps Drona to his right and proceeds onwards, shooting his shafts. Drona addresses Arjuna, asking where he is going, and Arjuna replies that he will not cease fighting until he has vanquished his foe. However, he acknowledges that Drona is his preceptor and not his foe. Arjuna then proceeds against the Kaurava troops, followed by the princes of Panchala. Other warriors, including Jaya and Kritavarman, oppose Arjuna's progress, but he continues to advance, determined to slay Jayadratha.
91 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between Arjuna and Drona, with Arjuna using the Brahma weapon to counter Drona's arrows. Drona, determined to defeat Arjuna, afflicts Partha and Vasudeva with numerous arrows, but Arjuna resists and avoids him, demonstrating his exceptional skill and prowess. Arjuna then proceeds to slaughter the Bhoja host, displaying his unwavering dedication to his mission. As Arjuna advances, he encounters Kritavarman, who pierces him with arrows, but Arjuna stupefies him and continues to the Kamvoja force. Meanwhile, Kritavarman resists the two Panchala princes following Arjuna, engaging them in a fierce battle. Arjuna then afflicts the divisions opposed to him, showcasing his unwavering strength and determination. In the heat of the battle, king Srutayudha, who had been made unslayable by a celestial weapon, rushes against Arjuna, but is ultimately slain by him. However, Srutayudha's mace returns to him and slays him when he hurls it at Janardana, who is not engaged in fighting, fulfilling the warning given by Varuna. The troops flee in disarray, and Sudakshina, the prince of the Kamvojas, rushes against Arjuna but is swiftly slain by him. The Kamvoja troops flee, leaving Sudakshina lying on the ground, deprived of life, his beautiful armor and ornaments rendered useless in the face of Arjuna's unwavering prowess.
92 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between Arjuna and the warriors of the Kuru army. Despite being filled with wrath and determination, the warriors are no match for Arjuna's skill and prowess. Srutayus and Achyutayus, two mighty car-warriors, shower Arjuna with arrows, but he invokes the weapon named after Sakra and strikes them down. Their sons, Niyatayus and Dirghayus, rush against Arjuna in a rage, but he quickly dispatches them to Yama's abode. Thousands of trained elephant-riders and kings from the west and south surround Arjuna, but he cuts them down with his shafts. The field of battle is strewn with heads, arms, and bodies, and the earth is covered in blood. Arjuna careers over the field, slaying steeds, car-warriors, and elephants, and causing a river of blood to flow. Srutayus, the ruler of the Amvashthas, resisted Arjuna but was ultimately slain, his mace cut off in fragments and his arms and head struck off.
93 Sanjaya tells Dhritarashtra that Duryodhana, seeing his army broken, goes to Drona for help. Drona advises Duryodhana to fight Arjuna himself, as he is the only one who can resist him. Drona ties a magical armor on Duryodhana's body, saying that even the gods cannot pierce it. He tells Duryodhana that the armor was given to him by Angiras, who received it from Vrihaspati, who received it from Agnivesya. Drona says that he is tying the armor on Duryodhana's body with Brahma strings, just as Brahma tied it on Vishnu's body in the battle against Taraka. With the armor on, Duryodhana proceeds to battle Arjuna, accompanied by a large army and musical instruments. Sanjaya compares Duryodhana's procession to that of Vali, the son of Virochana. Duryodhana is hesitant, feeling that he cannot resist Arjuna, who has already pierced through Drona's division. Drona reassures him, saying that the armor will protect him and that he should fight Arjuna to the best of his ability. Drona also reminds Duryodhana that he is a king and a hero, and that he should not fear Arjuna. With the armor on, Duryodhana feels more confident and proceeds to battle Arjuna.
94 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between the Kurus and Pandavas. Duryodhana's army is divided into three columns, but Drona repeatedly unites them. Dhrishtadyumna, however, separates them again and again. The Pandavas and Srinjayas fiercely slaughter the Kuru army, which is afflicted by the sun's rays and Drona's arrows. Drona consumes the Panchalas with his shafts, while Prishata's son separates the Kuru divisions. The battle is fierce, with warriors on both sides fighting to the utmost extent of their prowess. No one flees due to fear. Various warriors engage in separate encounters, including Bhimasena, Yudhishthira, Satyaki, and Dhrishtadyumna. The ruler of the Sindhus remains in the rear, protected by Kripa, Karna, and other warriors. The battle rages on, with Drona and Dhrishtadyumna displaying their prowess. The Pandavas and Srinjayas fight valiantly, but the Kuru army is not easily defeated. The sun beats down, and the dust raised by the soldiers afflicts the eyes of all. The battle is a fierce and awful sight, with warriors on both sides determined to emerge victorious.
95 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between the Kurus and Pandavas. Drona's division is fiercely attacked by the Parthas, who seek to pierce through it. Drona and his forces fight back, seeking glory. Various warriors engage in individual battles, displaying their prowess. The battle is fierce, with arrows covering the sky and warriors fighting valiantly. The sons of Madri attack Sakuni, who is forced to retreat. Ghatotkacha battles Alamvusha, while Yudhishthira engages the ruler of the Madras. Bhimasena fights against Vivinsati, Chitrasena, and Vikarna. The battle rages on, with warriors on both sides showing their strength and valor. The Pandavas and Kurus are evenly matched, and the outcome is uncertain. The battle is a display of skill and bravery, with warriors fighting for their honor and their sides. The description of the battle highlights the intensity and ferocity of the conflict, with warriors fighting fiercely and valiantly.
96 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between the Kurus and Pandavas. Bhimasena attacks Jalasandha, Yudhishthira fights Kritavarman, and Dhrishtadyumna engages Drona. The battle rages on, with warriors fighting fearlessly and falling by the thousands. The field is strewn with bodies, weapons, and armor. Drona and Dhrishtadyumna exchange blows, their arrows filling the sky. The battle is fierce, with warriors using various weapons and fighting valiantly. Elephants and horses are slain, and carnivorous animals feed on the flesh of the fallen. Dhrishtadyumna mixes up his steeds with Drona's and takes up his sword and shield. He enters Drona's chariot and moves quickly, avoiding Drona's attacks. Drona eventually gains the upper hand, but Satyaki intervenes and rescues Dhrishtadyumna. The battle continues, with Drona fighting the Panchala warriors. The scene is one of chaos and carnage, with warriors fighting for their lives and falling by the thousands. The description highlights the intensity and ferocity of the battle, with warriors displaying their skill and valor. The intervention of Satyaki turns the tide of the battle, and Dhrishtadyumna is saved from certain defeat.
97 Dhritarashtra asks Sanjaya to describe the battle between Drona and Satyaki. Sanjaya describes the intense fight, with both warriors displaying their skill and valor. Drona, filled with rage, rushes towards Satyaki, who remains calm and fearless. The two warriors exchange blows, covering the sky with their arrows. The sound of their bows and the impact of their arrows create a deafening noise. The battle is fierce, with neither side giving in. The warriors are evenly matched, and their skills are praised by the gods and other spectators. Drona and Satyaki use celestial weapons, but their effects are neutralized. As the sun sets, Yudhishthira and other Pandava warriors rush to protect Satyaki, while Duryodhana's brothers and other Kaurava warriors come to aid Drona. The battle becomes more intense, with dust and arrows filling the air, making it difficult to discern anything. The scene is one of chaos and carnage, with warriors fighting fiercely and valiantly. The description highlights the intensity and ferocity of the battle, with both sides displaying their skill and strength. The use of celestial weapons adds a supernatural element to the battle, and the neutralization of their effects shows that the warriors are evenly matched. The intervention of other warriors adds to the complexity of the battle, making it a thrilling and unpredictable contest.
98 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between Arjuna and the Kaurava warriors. As the sun begins to set, Arjuna and Vasudeva make their way through the enemy troops, with Arjuna's steeds becoming tired and hungry. The brothers of Avanti, Vinda and Anuvinda, attack Arjuna, but he defeats them with his arrows. Their followers then attack Arjuna, but he slays them, shining like a fire consuming a forest. The Kauravas continue to attack, but Arjuna holds them off, standing like an immovable hill. Vasudeva suggests unyoking the steeds and removing their arrows, and Arjuna agrees. He then stands alone, surrounded by enemy cars, and resists their attacks with his bow, Gandiva. The battle rages on, with Arjuna covering the enemy with countless shafts and generating a fire in the sky. The atmosphere becomes hot, with the sound of conchs and drums roaring like the ocean. Arjuna then creates a lake with his weapon, and Vasudeva praises him, saying "Excellent, Excellent". The scene is one of intense battle, with Arjuna displaying his skill and valor against overwhelming odds. The description highlights the ferocity of the battle, with the sound of weapons and the cries of warriors creating a deafening noise. The creation of the lake and the arrowy hall showcases Arjuna's divine abilities, and the praise from Vasudeva emphasizes his admiration for Arjuna's skills.
99 Sanjaya describes the wonders of Arjuna's battle prowess, including his ability to hold off the enemy army on foot and create an arrowy hall. Vasudeva unyokes the steeds and tends to their wounds, then yokes them again and proceeds with Arjuna to find Jayadratha. The Kuru warriors are amazed and dismayed by Arjuna's skills, and some lament that they are being destroyed due to Duryodhana's fault. Arjuna and Vasudeva proceed with great speed, routing the enemy army and blowing the conch Panchajanya. Many kings and Kshatriyas try to stop Arjuna, but he is undeterred. The scene is one of intense battle, with Arjuna and Vasudeva displaying their divine abilities and the enemy army struggling to keep up. The text highlights Arjuna's bravery and skill, as well as Vasudeva's tender care for the steeds. The Kuru warriors' reactions range from admiration to despair, and the scene is filled with vivid imagery and action. The sound of the conch Panchajanya and the sight of the arrowy hall create a sense of wonder and awe, and Arjuna's determination to find Jayadratha drives the action forward.
100 Sanjaya describes the scene as Arjuna and Vasudeva penetrate the enemy host, causing the kings to flee in fear. However, the two heroes soon find themselves surrounded by Drona's division, which they pierce through with difficulty. They emerge on the other side, freed from the danger, and continue their search for Jayadratha. The Kuru warriors are dismayed, realizing that Jayadratha's chances of survival are slim. Arjuna and Vasudeva converse about killing Jayadratha, and their determination strikes fear into the hearts of the Kuru warriors. The two heroes are described as blazing suns, freed from the darkness of Drona's division. They are filled with joy at the sight of Jayadratha and rush towards him with wrath. Duryodhana, seeing his chance, rushes to protect Jayadratha, and the scene ends with a sense of tension and anticipation. The text is a vivid description of the battle scene, with imagery and metaphors used to convey the intensity of the action. The two heroes are portrayed as unstoppable forces, piercing through the enemy divisions with ease. The Kuru warriors are shown to be increasingly desperate and fearful, realizing that their chances of victory are slipping away. The stage is set for a dramatic confrontation between Arjuna and Jayadratha, with Duryodhana attempting to intervene.
101 Vasudeva urges Arjuna to fight Duryodhana, calling him the root of all the wrongs done to the Pandavas. He praises Arjuna's prowess, saying that even the three worlds cannot venture to vanquish him in battle. Vasudeva reminds Arjuna of the wrongs done to him and his brothers, including the deprivation of their kingdom and the insult to Draupadi. Arjuna agrees to fight Duryodhana, and the two Krishnas proceed towards him. Duryodhana, despite being aware of the danger, shows no fear and is applauded by the Kauravas for his bravery. The scene is set for a fierce battle between Arjuna and Duryodhana, with both sides filled with rage and determination. The text highlights the tension and anticipation leading up to the battle, with Vasudeva's speech serving as a catalyst for Arjuna's determination to fight. The conversation between the two Krishnas showcases their bond and shared purpose, while Duryodhana's bravery and defiance add to the drama of the scene. The stage is set for a thrilling and intense battle, with the outcome hanging in the balance.
102 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between Arjuna and Duryodhana. Duryodhana pierces Arjuna with shafts, but Arjuna's weapons fail to penetrate Duryodhana's armor, which was given to him by Drona. Krishna is amazed and asks Arjuna why his weapons are ineffective. Arjuna explains that the armor is impenetrable and was created by Brahma. Despite this, Arjuna vows to defeat Duryodhana. The battle rages on, with both sides exchanging blows. Arjuna slays Duryodhana's steeds and charioteers and cuts off his bow and armor. Duryodhana becomes distressed, and many warriors rush to his aid. Arjuna begins to slaughter the host, and the Vrishni hero, Krishna, blows his conch, causing the Kuru warriors to fall down. The car of Arjuna becomes freed, and the protectors of Jayadratha become enraged, uttering loud shouts and filling the earth with noise. The text highlights the ferocity of the battle and the determination of the warriors. The conversation between Krishna and Arjuna showcases their bond and strategy, while the description of the armor and weapons adds to the intensity of the scene. The sound of the conchs and the twang of Gandiva create a vivid atmosphere, and the bravery of the warriors is evident throughout the passage.
103 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between Arjuna and the Kuru warriors. Eight great car-warriors, including Bhurisravas, Karna, and the son of Drona, rush towards Arjuna's car, filled with rage and determined to rescue Duryodhana. The warriors blow their conchs, filling the sky and earth with a loud blare. Arjuna and Krishna respond with their own conchs, Devadatta and Panchajanya, which surpass the noise of the Kuru warriors. The Kuru host is filled with anxiety and fear, and the sound of the conchs resounds through the ten points of the compass. The warriors engage in a fierce battle, with Arjuna piercing each of his enemies in return, displaying his skill and lightness of hand. The son of Drona strikes Vasudeva and Arjuna, but Arjuna retaliates, mangling his enemies with hundreds of arrows. The text highlights the intensity of the battle, with the sound of conchs and the clash of weapons creating a vivid atmosphere. The bravery and skill of the warriors are evident, with Arjuna and Krishna standing out as formidable opponents. The use of imagery and metaphor, such as the comparison of the sound of the conchs to thunder, adds to the drama of the scene.
104 Dhritarashtra asks Sanjaya to describe the standards of the warriors in the battle. Sanjaya describes the diverse kinds of standards, made of gold and decked with gold, that shone like blazing flames of fire. He mentions the standards of Dhananjaya, Drona's son, Karna, Kripa, Vrishasena, Salya, Somadatta's son, and Duryodhana, each with its unique mark, such as an ape, lion-tail, elephant-rope, peacock, bovine bull, and sacrificial stake. The standards were adorned with banners that moved in the wind, looking like dancing ladies. Sanjaya describes how the warriors looked resplendent with their standards, and how Arjuna's standard, bearing the mark of an ape, frightened the Kuru host. The warriors took up their bows and began the encounter, with Arjuna fearlessly facing all the warriors united together. The text highlights the grandeur and beauty of the standards, which reflected the bravery and strength of the warriors. The use of imagery and metaphor, such as the comparison of the banners to dancing ladies, adds to the vividness of the description. The standards became a symbol of the warriors' identity and pride, and played a significant role in the battle.
105 Dhritarashtra asks Sanjaya to describe the battle between the Panchalas and the Kurus. Sanjaya describes the fierce encounter, with Drona at the center, and the Panchalas determined to slay him. The battle rages on, with many warriors engaging in intense duels. Yudhishthira and Drona exchange blows, with Yudhishthira ultimately cutting off Drona's bow. Drona then hurls a mace at Yudhishthira, who counters with his own mace. The two maces collide and fall to the ground. Drona then kills Yudhishthira's steeds and cuts off his bow and standard. Yudhishthira is left weaponless and carless, and Drona rushes towards him, shooting sharp shafts. The Pandava army cries out in despair, thinking Yudhishthira is slain. However, Yudhishthira escapes to Sahadeva's chariot and retreats from the battlefield. The text highlights the intensity of the battle and the bravery of the warriors. The duel between Yudhishthira and Drona is particularly noteworthy, with both sides displaying great skill and determination. The use of imagery and metaphor, such as the comparison of the maces to furious lions, adds to the vividness of the description.
106 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between the warriors. Vrihatkshatra and Kshemadhurti engage in a fierce duel, with Vrihatkshatra ultimately slaying Kshemadhurti. Dhrishtaketu and Viradhanwan also fight, with Dhrishtaketu using a dart to kill Viradhanwan. Sahadeva and Durmukha exchange blows, with Sahadeva emerging victorious. Nakula quickly defeats Vikarna, and Satyaki slays Vyaghradatta and then vanquishes the Magadhas. The Trigarta warriors are routed, and Drona, filled with rage, rushes towards Satyaki. The text highlights the bravery and skill of the warriors, with a focus on the individual duels and the intensity of the battle. The use of imagery and metaphor, such as the comparison of the head falling from the trunk to a luminary falling from the firmament, adds to the vividness of the description. The battle rages on, with the Pandavas gaining the upper hand.
107 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between the Pandavas and the Kauravas. The son of Somadatta pierces each of the sons of Draupadi with multiple arrows, but they ultimately surround and pierce him deeply. The son of Arjuna kills Somadatta's steeds, and the son of Bhimasena cuts off his bow. The son of Sahadeva beheads Somadatta, causing the Kaurava troops to flee in fear. The Rakshasa Alamvusha engages in a fierce duel with Bhimasena, using his powers to become invisible and assume various forms. He showers Bhimasena with arrows, but Bhimasena retaliates with the Tvashtri weapon, producing thousands of arrows and afflicting the Rakshasa. The Rakshasa flees towards Drona's division, and the Pandavas rejoice at Bhimasena's victory. The text highlights the bravery and skill of the warriors, with a focus on the individual duels and the intensity of the battle. The use of imagery and metaphor, such as the comparison of the head falling from the trunk to the sun rising at the end of the Yuga, adds to the vividness of the description.
108 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between Ghatotkacha and Alamvusha, two powerful Rakshasas. They exchange blows, creating illusions and displaying their strength. The Pandavas surround Alamvusha, but he breaks free and pierces several of them with his shafts. Ghatotkacha retaliates, and the two Rakshasas engage in a fierce duel. Despite being mortal, Alamvusha puts up a strong fight, but Ghatotkacha ultimately seizes and crushes him, killing him. The Pandavas rejoice at Alamvusha's death, while the Kauravas lament his loss. Ghatotkacha is praised by his relatives and friends for his bravery. The battle continues, with the sound of conchs and arrows filling the air. The Kauravas respond with loud shouts, and the earth echoes with the noise. The text highlights the bravery and strength of Ghatotkacha and Alamvusha, and the intensity of their battle. The use of imagery and metaphor, such as the comparison of Alamvusha to a crushed mountain, adds to the vividness of the description.
109 Dhritarashtra asks Sanjaya to describe the battle between Yuyudhana (Satyaki) and Drona. Sanjaya recounts how Yuyudhana and Drona exchange blows, with Yuyudhana ultimately seeking help from King Yudhishthira. Yudhishthira sends Satyaki to aid Arjuna, who is battling Jayadratha and other warriors. Yudhishthira praises Satyaki's bravery and skill, saying he is the only one who can protect Arjuna. He reminds Satyaki of Arjuna's words, who had said that Satyaki is his disciple and friend, and that he is dear to him. Yudhishthira urges Satyaki to go to Arjuna's aid, saying that he is the only one who can help him. Satyaki is described as a mighty warrior, equal to Narayana in weapons and strength, and surpassing Bhishma and Drona in bravery. Yudhishthira says that Satyaki is the only one who can accomplish the task of aiding Arjuna, and that he should not frustrate their wishes. He urges Satyaki to fight like a hero and display feats worthy of himself.
110 Satyaki, the bull amongst the Sinis, replies to King Yudhishthira's words, saying that he has heard the king's delightful and just commands, and is prepared to cast away his life for the sake of Phalguna (Arjuna). He agrees to battle with the entire army of Suyodhana and vanquish it, and assures the king that he will safely reach Dhananjaya and slay Jayadratha. Satyaki informs the king that Arjuna had entrusted him with the protection of Yudhishthira, and that he cannot falsify that trust. He says that only Pradyumna or he himself can be a match for Drona in battle, and expresses his concern for the king's safety, asking who will protect him when he leaves. Satyaki suggests that Bhima, Prishata's son, and other warriors will protect the king, and Yudhishthira assures him that he will take the greatest precaution in protecting himself. The king tells Satyaki to go to Arjuna, and says that Bhima and other warriors will protect him, and that Dhrishtadyumna will resist angry Drona in battle. With this, Satyaki is given leave to go to Arjuna's aid, and Yudhishthira prepares for the battle ahead.
111 Satyaki agrees to follow Arjuna, despite fearing censure if he leaves King Yudhishthira unprotected. He assures the king that he will pierce through the enemy host and slay Jayadratha, and asks Bhima to protect the king in his absence. Satyaki describes the enemy forces, including elephants, Kiratas, and Kamvojas, and declares that he will destroy them all. He notes that the enemy warriors are accomplished and devoted to the science of weapons, but expresses confidence in his own abilities. Satyaki's charioteer reports that his car is equipped and ready, and Satyaki performs rituals and seeks blessings before mounting his chariot. With his bow and arrows in hand, he sets out, followed by Bhima. As they approach the enemy host, Satyaki tells Bhima to return and protect the king, and Bhima agrees. Satyaki then charges forward, ready to face the enemy and fulfill his vow to slay Jayadratha. His chariot is adorned with a golden lion standard, and he is filled with joy and energy as he heads into battle. The enemy troops tremble at the sight of him, and Satyaki's determination and bravery are clear as he leads the charge.
112 Satyaki, determined to follow Arjuna, charges forward despite Yudhishthira's warnings. He faces off against Drona, who attempts to stop him, but Satyaki refuses to engage in a lengthy battle, citing his duty to follow his preceptor, Arjuna. Drona, enraged, shoots countless shafts at Satyaki, who expertly avoids them and continues on his way. Satyaki then encounters Kritavarman, who shoots a calf-toothed shaft that pierces Satyaki's chest. Satyaki responds by shooting hundreds of shafts at Kritavarman, shrouding him and his car in an arrowy downpour. He then cuts off Kritavarman's charioteer's head and proceeds to face the Kamvojas. Meanwhile, Drona, determined to stop Satyaki, places his troops in position and charges forward, only to be resisted by the Pandava warriors. The battle rages on, with Satyaki displaying his prowess and determination to fulfill his vow to follow Arjuna. As Satyaki continues on his way, he encounters numerous other warriors, including the Valhikas and the Southerners, but he expertly defeats them all. His charioteer, noting his fatigue, urges him to proceed with caution, but Satyaki is resolute in his determination to follow Arjuna. Despite the odds against him, Satyaki presses on, his bravery and skill inspiring his fellow Pandava warriors. As the battle rages on, it becomes clear that Satyaki will stop at nothing to fulfill his vow and follow Arjuna into the heart of the enemy's camp.
113 Dhritarashtra lamented, "Our army, equally excellent and numerous, is being slain by the Pandavas. Our soldiers are well-trained, well-equipped, and devoted to us. Yet, they are being defeated. What can it be but Destiny? I fear that none of my troops will survive. Satyaki and Arjuna have pierced through our army like the ocean. My sons are filled with grief, seeing our warriors retreat in despair. I think they are filled with grief, seeing their car-warriors retreat and their steeds and elephants fly away. Drona, that great bowman, is endued with great might, but even he could not resist the Pandavas. How could the Panchalas pierce him in the fight? Sanjaya, tell me, how did the battle take place? How could the Pandavas defeat our army, which is equally excellent and numerous? Sanjaya replied, "O king, your army is being defeated due to your own fault. You did not heed the counsels of your well-wishing friends. You abandoned the sons of Pandu and caused this war. This defeat is entirely owing to you."
114 Sanjaya said, "O king, listen to the bravery of Satyaki, the grandson of Sini. After defeating Kritavarman, he proceeded to face the Trigarta warriors, who were waiting for him with their elephants. Satyaki fought with valor, shooting sharp shafts and scattering the enemy. The elephants were slaughtered, and their riders were slain. The Trigarta warriors fled, and Satyaki advanced to face Jalasandha, the ruler of the Magadhas. Jalasandha, filled with rage, pierced Satyaki with many shafts, but Satyaki trembled not. He took up another bow and pierced Jalasandha with sixty arrows. Jalasandha hurled a lance at Satyaki, piercing his left arm, but Satyaki struck back with thirty keen shafts. The battle raged on, with both warriors showing their prowess. Finally, Satyaki cut off Jalasandha's arms and head, and the latter's elephant fled, crushing friendly ranks. Thy warriors, O king, fled in all directions, despairing of success. Drona, the foremost of all wielders of bows, approached Satyaki, and a fierce battle ensued between the Kurus and Satyaki."
115 Sanjaya said, "Yuyudhana, surrounded by warriors, fought valiantly, shooting arrows at Drona, Durmarshana, Duhsasana, Vikarna, and others. Though pierced by many shafts, he retaliated, striking each of them with his straight arrows. He then proceeded to face Duryodhana, and a fierce battle ensued. Both shot keen arrows, making each other invisible. Satyaki, pierced by Duryodhana, looked resplendent, and the king, pierced by Satyaki, looked beautiful. The battle raged on, with both warriors showing their prowess. Yuyudhana, filled with joy, pierced the mighty car-warrior, Duryodhana, with many arrows capable of penetrating into the very vitals. Then, the king, quickly mounted the car of Chitrasena, armed with the bow. Beholding the king thus attacked by Satyaki in battle, and reduced to the position of Soma in the firmament while seized by Rahu, cries of woe arose from every section of the Kuru host. Hearing that uproar, the mighty car-warrior Kritavarman quickly proceeded to that spot where the puissant Madhava was battling. And Kritavarman proceeded, shaking his bow, and urging his steeds, and urging his charioteer with the words, 'Go with speed, Go with speed!' Beholding Kritavarman rushing towards him like the Destroyer himself with wide-open mouth, Yuyudhana, O king, addressed his driver, saying, 'That Kritavarman, armed with arrows, is rushing in his car towards me with speed. Then, with his steeds urged to their greatest speed, and on his car duly equipped, Satyaki came upon the ruler of the Bhojas, the foremost of all bowmen. Those two tigers among men, both inflamed with rage, and both resembling fire, encountered each other like two tigers endued with great activity. Kritavarman pierced Sini's grandson with six and twenty whetted arrows of keen points, and the latter's driver with five arrows. And skilled in battle, the son of Hridika pierced, with four mighty shafts, the four excellent and well-broken steeds of Satyaki that were of the Sindhu breed."
116 Sanjaya said, "Drona and Satyaki engaged in a fierce battle, exchanging arrows. Drona pierced Satyaki's forehead with three arrows, and Satyaki cut off Drona's arrows with his own. Drona then pierced Satyaki with thirty, fifty, and a hundred arrows, but Satyaki retaliated with equal force. The two warriors displayed incredible lightness of hand, with neither gaining the upper hand. Satyaki struck Drona's standard and driver, and Drona cut off Satyaki's bow and standard. The battle raged on, with both warriors showing their prowess. Drona hurled a dart at Satyaki's car, but it pierced through without touching him. Satyaki then struck Drona's arm, and Drona cut off Satyaki's bow again. Satyaki's driver was struck and fell unconscious, but Satyaki continued to fight, holding the reins himself. He struck Drona with many arrows, and Drona's steeds fled in terror. The Kaurava warriors rushed to Drona's aid, and the battle continued. The sound of drums and cymbals filled the air, and the earth shook beneath the feet of the warriors. Drona and Satyaki fought on, their arrows flying back and forth like a swarm of locusts. The battle was fierce and intense, with no quarter asked or given. In the end, Drona's steeds fled, and Satyaki emerged victorious. The Pandavas and Panchalas cheered, and the Kauravas retreated in disarray."
117 Sanjaya said, "Having vanquished Drona and other warriors, Satyaki proceeded, scattering arrows all around. The Kuru warriors couldn't resist him, and he pierced through their ranks like a hawk in search of prey. His chariot, yoked to excellent steeds white as the moon or a conch, shone resplendent. Sudarsana, a king and skilled warrior, attempted to check Satyaki's course, and a fierce encounter took place between them. Sudarsana shot hundreds of shafts at Satyaki, but the latter's arrows baffled them. Sudarsana then shot beautiful arrows winged with gold, piercing Satyaki's armor and body. Satyaki, in turn, slew Sudarsana's steeds and driver, and with a broad-headed arrow, cut off Sudarsana's head, adorned with ear-rings and a radiant face. The Yadu hero then proceeded along the track Arjuna had passed before him, checking all foes with clouds of shafts and filling everybody with amazement. The assembled warriors applauded Satyaki's amazing feat, for he consumed all foes that came within reach of his arrows like a conflagration. His chariot wheels seemed to revolve like the sun's disc, and his bow was like a cloud pouring shafts. The sound of his bowstring was like thunder, and his arrows seemed to fall like a shower of meteors. The Kauravas couldn't resist Satyaki's prowess, and they fled in terror, abandoning their wounded and dead. Satyaki's victory was like a celestial event, and his glory shone like the sun in the firmament."
118 Sanjaya said, "Satyaki, having slain Sudarsana, addressed his driver, 'Having forded the ocean of Drona's division, I think the remaining array can be easily crossed. Urge the steeds, I am near Savyasachin.' He saw the track by which Arjuna had gone and the routed Kaurava army flying away. He heard the twang of Gandiva and knew Arjuna was near. He asked his driver to take him to where Duryodhana and other warriors were waiting. The driver, unfearful, said, 'I will take thee to where Dhananjaya is.' Satyaki said, 'I will slay these warriors like Vasava destroying the Danavas. I will fulfil my vow by slaying these Kamvojas.' He slew thousands of warriors, and the Kauravas beheld his prowess. Duryodhana was filled with grief, and the Kauravas knew the measure of Satyaki's might. The charioteer urged the coursers, and Satyaki proceeded to where the Yavanas were. He slew them with his arrows, and they fell like featherless birds. The field of battle was strewn with headless trunks, and the earth was impassable with flesh and blood. The remnant of the troops broke and fled, and Satyaki, crowned with victory, urged his charioteer to proceed."
119 Sanjaya said, "Yuyudhana, having vanquished the Yavanas and Kamvojas, proceeded towards Arjuna, slaying Kaurava troops like a hunter slaying deer. His bow and standard shone with gold, and he looked like a second sun. Many car-warriors surrounded him, including Duryodhana, Chitrasena, Duhsasana, and others, but he smiled and said, 'Proceed slowly, I will resist this sea of troops.' He slew thousands of warriors, horses, and elephants, and his arrows never failed. The battle was fierce, and the Kaurava host was routed. Satyaki's prowess was wonderful, and he surpassed even Arjuna. Duryodhana and others pierced Satyaki with arrows, but he retaliated, cutting off bows and piercing his foes. His charioteer was killed, but he continued to fight, covering the fleeing host with arrows. The Kaurava troops were terrified, and their leaders tried to rally them, but Satyaki was unstoppable. He careered on the field with the celerity of a hawk, his shafts flying in all directions. Thy sons, O king, and the other warriors, fled in terror, abandoning their wounded and dead. Satyaki's chariot wheels seemed to revolve like the sun's disc, and his bow was like a cloud pouring shafts. The sound of his bowstring was like thunder, and his arrows seemed to fall like a shower of meteors. The Kaurava host was consumed by fear, and their leaders were powerless to stop Satyaki's onslaught. Thus, Yuyudhana, that tiger among men, proceeded towards Arjuna's car, routing all thy combatants counting by thousands. Thy troops worshipped Yuyudhana, beholding him shooting arrows and protecting his charioteer and himself as he fought in battle."
120 Dhritarashtra lamented that his sons were no match for Yuyudhana, who was inflamed with wrath. He wondered how his sons could set their hearts on battle when faced with such a formidable warrior. Sanjaya described the battle in detail, where numerous warriors, including Duryodhana, Sakas, Kamvojas, and others, rushed against Satyaki but were slain. Despite being surrounded, Satyaki fearlessly fought and slew many car-warriors, elephants, and foot-soldiers. Duhsasana urged the mountaineers to fight with stones, but Satyaki cut them down with his shafts. The battle was fierce, with stones and weapons flying through the air, and many warriors fleeing in terror. The sound of the stones being pierced by Satyaki's shafts was like a fierce noise, causing many to flee. The mountaineers, armed with stones, rushed towards Satyaki, but he was unstoppable. Drona, hearing the uproar, told his charioteer to take him to where Yuyudhana was fighting. The charioteer described the chaos, with warriors fleeing and Yuyudhana slaughtering many car-warriors. Drona had to decide whether to face the advancing Pandavas or proceed towards Satyaki. Meanwhile, Satyaki continued to slaughter a large number of car-warriors, causing Dhritarashtra's troops to flee in panic. The scene was one of utter chaos and destruction, with Satyaki single-handedly routing the Kaurava army. Dhritarashtra's sons were no match for the mighty warrior, and their fate seemed sealed. The battle was a testament to Satyaki's bravery and skill, and it seemed that nothing could stop him from emerging victorious."
121 Sanjaya told Dhritarashtra that Drona rebuked Duhsasana for fleeing from Satyaki, reminding him of his past insults to Draupadi and the Pandavas. Drona urged Duhsasana to fight back, warning him that the Pandavas would not spare him. Duhsasana proceeded to fight Satyaki, while Drona attacked the Panchalas and Pandavas, causing great carnage. Viraketu, the son of the Panchala king, fought Drona but was killed. Other Panchala princes, including Chitraketu and Sudhanwan, attacked Drona but were also slain. Dhrishtadyumna, filled with rage, attacked Drona and pierced him with many arrows. However, Drona fought back and weakened him. The battle between Drona and Dhrishtadyumna was fierce and wonderful, with both warriors displaying great skill and valor. Drona's arrows shrouded the sky, and his bow was like a cloud pouring torrents of rain. Dhrishtadyumna's charioteer was killed, and his steeds ran away, carrying him from the field. Drona emerged victorious, routing the Panchalas and Pandavas. The Pandavas did not venture to vanquish him in battle. Drona's prowess was unmatched, and his victory was a testament to his skill and bravery. The battle was a display of the great warrior's might, and it struck fear into the hearts of his enemies.
122 Sanjaya told Dhritarashtra that Duhsasana rushed against Satyaki, scattering arrows like a cloud, but Satyaki stood firm, unmoved by the attack. Duhsasana pierced Satyaki with sixty arrows, and then with sixteen more, but Satyaki's resolve was unshaken. Satyaki retaliated, covering Duhsasana with arrows, and his charioteer and steeds were soon invisible due to the arrowy showers. Duhsasana's brave warriors were slain by Satyaki, who then proceeded towards Arjuna. Duhsasana hurled a dart at Satyaki, but it was cut off by his shafts. Duhsasana took up another bow and pierced Satyaki, who retaliated with fierce arrows that seemed like flames of fire. Duhsasana's steeds, charioteer, and bow were slain or cut off by Satyaki, who showed no mercy in battle. Despite being defeated, Duhsasana was taken up by the leader of the Trigarta warriors on his car. Satyaki, remembering Bhimasena's vow to destroy all of Dhritarashtra's sons in battle, restrained himself from slaying Duhsasana. The battle was fierce and intense, with both warriors displaying great skill and valor. In the end, Satyaki emerged victorious, his prowess in battle unmatched.
123 Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya if there were no mighty car-warriors in his army who could resist Satyaki, who was proceeding towards Arjuna. Sanjaya described the fierce battle, saying that the Pandava army was agitated by Duryodhana, who fought valiantly, piercing many warriors with his arrows. He singled out Bhimasena, the twins, king Yudhishthira, Virata, Drupada, Sikhandin, and the five sons of Draupadi, striking them with his shafts. Despite his skill and the power of his weapons, Duryodhana's bow was cut off by Yudhishthira, and he took up another bow, determined to fight on. The battle was intense, with Drona receiving the rushing Panchalas like a mountain receiving rain-charged clouds. The carnage was dreadful, resembling the sport of Rudra at the end of the Yuga. The Pandavas and the Kauravas clashed, their chariots and elephants colliding, their bows and arrows flying through the air. The sound of conchs and drums filled the air, and the earth shook beneath their feet. The battle raged on, with Arjuna, Drona, and Satyaki excited with wrath. Arjuna's bow was drawn into a perpetual circle as he struck down his foes. Drona's chariot was like a fiery wheel, moving through the Pandava army, leaving destruction in its wake. Satyaki's sword flashed through the air, striking down Kaurava warriors like a thunderbolt.
124 Sanjaya described the battle between Drona and the Somakas, where Drona, with his red steeds and mighty strength, fought valiantly. Vrihatkshatra, the prince of the Kekayas, resisted Drona, but was eventually slain. Dhrishtaketu, the prince of the Chedis, then attacked Drona, but was also killed. The son of Jarasandha and the Chedis, Srinjayas, Kasis, and Kosalas, all rushed against Drona, but were slaughtered. The Panchalas trembled, and Drona's shafts slew men, elephants, and steeds by hundreds. The Chedis, Panchalas, and Srinjayas called out to Bhimasena and Dhrishtadyumna, saying, "Drona is slain!" But Drona continued to fight, consuming the foremost Kshatriyas. The Panchalas said, "A Brahmana's duty is asceticism, and Drona has acquired great ascetic merit. He is capable of burning everything with his glances." Many Kshatriyas were blasted and consumed by Drona's weapons. Kshatradharman, Dhrishtadyumna's son, cut off Drona's bow, but Drona took up another and slew Kshatradharman. Chekitana then attacked Drona, but was also slain. The Panchalas and Pandavas were filled with fear, and Drona continued to career in battle like a youth of sixteen. Drupada said, "Drona is slaying the Kshatriyas like a hungry tiger. Duryodhana will obtain the most miserable regions in the next world."
125 Sanjaya described the Pandava army's retreat and Yudhishthira's anxiety about Arjuna and Satyaki's safety. Yudhishthira thought about sending Bhima to rescue Satyaki, fearing the world's reproach if he only enquired after Arjuna. He praised Bhima's strength and resolve, relying on him to aid Satyaki and Arjuna. Yudhishthira addressed his charioteer, asking to be taken to Bhima, and upon arrival, pressed Bhima with solicitations. Bhima, seeing Yudhishthira's distress, offered to help, but Yudhishthira expressed his fear that Arjuna had been slain, as the blasts of the conch Panchajanya were heard, indicating Vasudeva was fighting. Yudhishthira described Arjuna's might and his own grief, asking Bhima to go to Arjuna and Satyaki, and send a message if they were safe. He reminded Bhima that Satyaki had gone to aid Arjuna, and Bhima should think of Satyaki as dear as Arjuna himself.
126 Bhima prepared to leave, entrusting Yudhishthira's safety to Dhrishtadyumna. He donned his armor, mounted his chariot, and blew his conch. As he rushed into battle, the blasts of Panchajanya grew louder, and Yudhishthira urged Bhima to hurry. Bhima's chariot sped towards Arjuna, and he began to twang his bow, causing the enemy to tremble. The Panchalas and Somakas followed him, and he clashed with Drona's division. Drona checked his course, smilingly striking Bhima's forehead with a shaft. Bhima, excited with wrath, replied, "I am not compassionate like Arjuna. I am Bhimasena, thy foe." He whirled a mace and hurled it at Drona, who jumped down from his chariot just in time. Bhima crushed numerous warriors and slew several of Duryodhana's sons. The Kauravas showered arrows upon Bhima, but he received them like a mountain receiving a shower of stones. Bhima felt no pain and continued to fight, slaying more of Duryodhana's sons. The Kauravas fled, and Bhima pursued them, piercing them from every side. He uttered leonine roars and made a great noise, frightening the car-force and the warriors. Bhima passed towards Drona's division, transgressing the car-force he had vanquished.
127 Sanjaya said, "After crossing the car-force, Bhimasena was covered with showers of arrows by Drona, who sought to check his course. Bhima, unfazed, rushed at the Kaurava brothers, and many kings surrounded him. Undaunted, Bhima hurled a fierce mace, crushing the warriors and inspiring fear. The mace's sound filled the earth, and many fell down. Bhima's carnage was like Garuda's attack on serpents. Drona, checking Bhima's course, uttered a leonine roar, and the battle between them was furious. Bhima, struck by Drona's arrows, seized the preceptor's car and threw it down. Drona quickly mounted another car and proceeded towards the array's gate. Bhima, mounting his own car, rushed towards the Kaurava army, crushing the Kshatriyas like a tempest. He passed through the Bhoja and Kamvoja divisions and beheld Satyaki engaged in fight. Bhima then sighted Arjuna and uttered a loud shout, which was heard by both Arjuna and Vasudeva. Yudhishthira, hearing the shouts, was gratified, and his grief was dispelled. He reflected on Bhima's message and the prowess of Dhananjaya, feeling fortunate that Arjuna still lived."
128 Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya who stood against Bhimasena, fearing him more than Arjuna, Krishna, or Satyaki. Sanjaya replied that Karna rushed at Bhima, stretching his bow with great force, and checked his course. Bhima and Karna exchanged arrows, and their encounter made all the combatants tremble. The sound of their palms and Bhima's roars filled the earth and the welkin. Vultures and Kankas appeared, and steeds and elephants were dispirited. Karna struck Bhima with twenty arrows, and Bhima sped sixty-four arrows at Karna. Karna covered Bhima with arrows, but Bhima cut off Karna's bow and pierced him with ten arrows. Karna took up another bow and pierced Bhima, who struck Karna with three shafts, making him agitated. Bhima then cut off Karna's bow-string and despatched his charioteer and steeds to Yama's abode. Karna mounted Vrishasena's car, and Bhima uttered a loud shout, gratifying Yudhishthira. The Pandava army blew their conchs, and Arjuna stretched Gandiva, but Bhima's roar was the loudest.
129 Sanjaya said, "Duryodhana approached Drona, red with wrath, and said, 'Arjuna, Bhimasena, and Satyaki have defeated our troops and reached the ruler of Sindhus. How could you be transgressed by them?' Drona replied, 'We have to fear not only those three but also Krishna and Dhananjaya. Our first duty is to protect the ruler of Sindhus. The Bharata army is attacked from both front and rear.' Drona advised Duryodhana to protect Jayadratha, the stake in this game of battle. Duryodhana proceeded to protect Jayadratha, while Drona stayed back to check the Panchalas. Meanwhile, Yudhamanyu and Uttamaujas, the Panchala princes, were proceeding to Arjuna's side when they encountered Duryodhana. A fierce battle ensued, and Duryodhana slew their steeds and charioteers. The princes then ascended each other's car and continued fighting. Duryodhana eventually crushed their car and ascended the car of the king of Madras. The two princes then proceeded towards Arjuna in two other cars."
130 Sanjaya described the battle between Bhima and Karna to Dhritarashtra. Bhima, proceeding towards Arjuna's car, was confronted by Karna, who covered him with arrows. Bhima, determined to reach Arjuna, fought back with fierce shafts. Karna, with his natural pair of ear-rings, smiled as he battled Bhima. The two warriors exchanged blows, with Bhima piercing Karna's chest and Karna shooting back arrows that shrouded Bhima's car. Bhima, disregarding the pain, struck Karna with more shafts. Karna, though proud, felt great pain and proceeded to another car. Dhritarashtra asked how Bhima, who had been wronged by Karna, could fight him, and how Karna, who had been compassionate towards the Pandavas, could battle Bhima. Sanjaya replied that Bhima and Karna fought fiercely, with Bhima determined to reach Arjuna and Karna determined to stop him. The battle raged on, with both warriors showing their skills and strength. Bhima pierced Karna's body with many shafts, and Karna shot back arrows that covered Bhima's car. In the end, Bhima cut off Karna's bow and slew his steeds and charioteer, leaving Karna to proceed to another car.
131 Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya to describe the battle between Bhima and Karna. Sanjaya replied that Karna, excited with rage, shot dense showers of shafts at Bhimasena's car. Bhima, remembering all the woes suffered by him and the Pandavas, became reckless of his life and rushed against Karna. The two warriors exchanged blows, with Bhima shooting dense showers of arrows and Karna baffling them with his own winged arrows. Karna pierced Bhima with nine keen arrows, but Bhima fearlessly rushed against him. The two warriors agitated each other's forces, and their steeds mingled together. The field of battle became awful, with cries of "oh" and "alas" arising from the troops. The great car-warriors of the army trembled with fear, and the welkin was filled with arrowy downpours. Krishna and Dhananjaya thought the burden too great for Bhima to bear, and the battle resulted in a great carnage, with the field of battle covered with the bodies of men, steeds, and elephants deprived of life.
132 Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya to describe the battle between Bhima and Karna, wondering how Karna, who could resist the celestials, was defeated by Bhima. Sanjaya replied that the two warriors fought fiercely, exchanging blows and arrows. Karna pierced Bhima with thirty shafts, but Bhima cut off Karna's bow and felled his charioteer. Karna hurled a dart at Bhima, but Bhima cut it off with seven swift arrows. The battle raged on, with both warriors showing their prowess. Bhima cut off Karna's bow again and killed his steeds and charioteer. Karna, covered in arrows, became anxious and stupefied. Durjaya, Duryodhana's brother, tried to aid Karna but was killed by Bhima. Karna, grieving, circumambulated Durjaya's body and was covered in arrows by Bhima, looking like a Sataghni with numberless spikes. Dhritarashtra lamented that his son Duryodhana did not recognize the Pandavas' strength and was leading the Kauravas to defeat. Sanjaya continued to describe the battle, with Bhima and Karna exchanging blows and showing their prowess.
133 Sanjaya described the intense battle between Bhima and Karna, where they exchanged blows and arrows like two mighty elephants clashing. Karna pierced Bhima with multiple shafts, but Bhima responded with a barrage of arrows, striking Karna's standard and charioteer. Bhima then hurled a heavy, six-sided mace, slaying Karna's well-trained steeds and shattering his chariot. Karna, left carless and standardless, drew his bow, displaying remarkable prowess and determination. Duryodhana, observing Karna's distress, sent his brother Durmukha to aid him. However, Bhima was relentless and slew Durmukha with nine straight arrows, leaving Karna even more grief-stricken. Karna mounted Durmukha's car, his eyes red with rage and sorrow, and continued to fight. Bhima seized the opportunity to shoot multiple shafts at Karna, piercing his armor and drinking his life-blood. The arrows, adorned with golden wings, illuminated the sky as they coursed through the air, striking Karna with deadly precision. Karna, undeterred, responded with fierce shafts, piercing Bhima's right arm and causing him to shed copious streams of blood. The battle raged on, with both warriors displaying incredible strength and valor. Bhima struck back, afflicting Karna with multiple arrows and causing him to flee the battle in distress. Karna's flight was a testament to Bhima's unmatched prowess and strength, leaving the Kaurava army in disarray.
134 Dhritarashtra lamented that despite Karna's boasts, he was defeated by Bhima. He recalled Duryodhana's words, praising Karna's prowess and claiming that with him, they could defeat even the gods. However, Karna was defeated, and Durmukha was sent to his death. Dhritarashtra realized that Bhima's strength was unmatched, like a fierce fire or a thunderbolt. He wondered who would dare face Bhima, who had single-handedly entered the Kaurava army and ground Drona himself. Dhritarashtra believed that none could escape Bhima's wrath, not even his own sons, who were now in danger. He regretted not accepting Krishna's suit and acknowledged that his own actions had led to this destruction. Sanjaya replied that Dhritarashtra's grief was misplaced, as he had provoked this hostility by following his sons' counsel. Despite the warning signs, Dhritarashtra had refused to accept the truth, and now he must face the consequences. Sanjaya described how five of Dhritarashtra's sons had rushed against Bhima but were slain, and how Karna had been defeated once more. Bhima's prowess was extraordinary, and his strength unmatched.
135 Sanjaya described the fierce battle between Bhima and Karna, with both warriors filled with rage and determination. Bhima recollected Karna's past wrongs and pierced him with many arrows, but Karna retaliated with equal force. The two warriors exchanged blows, each trying to outmaneuver the other. Bhima slew Karna's steeds and charioteer, and Karna took up a mace, which Bhima resisted with his arrows. The battle raged on, with both warriors showing incredible strength and valor. Karna's bow was cut off, and he took up another, shrouding Bhima with arrows. Bhima, excited with rage, shot nine straight shafts at Karna, who turned back and fled on foot. Duryodhana sent his brothers to aid Karna, but Bhima slew them all with single arrows. Karna, remembering Vidura's words, mounted another car and proceeded against Bhima. The two warriors continued to exchange blows, their coats of mail cut off, their bodies covered in blood, like two snakes freed from their sloughs. They looked like two masses of clouds penetrated by the rays of the sun, or two mountains shattered by thunderbolts. Their armor was torn, their bodies wounded, but they fought on, their wrath and determination unbroken. Bhima and Karna were like two elephants, mangling each other with their tusks, or two bulls, locking horns in a fierce struggle. They were like two lions, endued with eyes red in wrath, or two mighty bulls, roaring at each other in the presence of a cow in her season. The battle raged on, with neither warrior able to gain the upper hand.
136 Sanjaya described the intense battle between Bhima and Karna, with both warriors exchanging blows and arrows. Karna, filled with grief and rage, shot numerous arrows at Bhima, who countered with his own shafts. The two warriors were evenly matched, with neither able to gain the upper hand. Bhima's arrows pierced Karna's body, and Karna's arrows pierced Bhima's. The battle raged on, with both warriors determined to emerge victorious. Duryodhana, witnessing the fierce battle, urged his brothers to aid Karna. Seven of his brothers rushed to Karna's side, surrounding Bhima and covering him with arrows. Bhima, undaunted, drew his bow and shot seven shafts, killing Duryodhana's brothers. The sons of Pandu cheered Bhima's victory, while Duryodhana lamented the loss of his brothers. Bhima, filled with sorrow and anger, remembered his vow to slay Duryodhana's brothers. He had accomplished his vow, but at a great cost. The battle raged on, with both sides suffering heavy losses. Sanjaya described the scene as a manifestation of destiny, with the consequences of past actions now being realized.
137 Dhritarashtra lamented the outcome of the battle, realizing his evil policy had led to the destruction. Sanjaya described the intense battle between Karna and Bhima, with both warriors exchanging arrowy showers like rain-charged clouds. The arrows pierced their bodies, causing agitation among the troops. The field of battle was strewn with fallen elephants, steeds, and men, and the host fled in fear. A river of blood flowed, enhancing the joy of the heroes and the fears of the timid. The earth was covered with lifeless forms, broken cars, and weapons, and the sight was resplendent. The Charanas and Siddhas were amazed by the superhuman feats of the two warriors. Karna and Bhima coursed fiercely through the battle, felling standards, cars, steeds, men, and elephants like a pair of elephants crushing a forest of reeds. The host looked like a mass of clouds, and the carnage was great.
138 Sanjaya described the intense battle between Karna and Bhima, with both warriors exchanging arrows and showing no signs of pain. Bhima pierced Karna's ear and forehead, and Karna became mad with rage, shooting countless arrows at Bhima. The two warriors continued to exchange arrows, with Karna's shafts sticking to Bhima's forehead like snakes. Bhima cut off Karna's bow and quivers, and Karna took up another bow, shooting thousands of arrows at Bhima. The battle raged on, with both warriors showing no signs of fatigue. Bhima hurled his sword at Karna's car, but Karna cut it off with his arrows. Bhima then entered a multitude of elephants, using their bodies as shields, and Karna cut off the elephant's body with his arrows. Bhima snatched Karna's bow and struck him on the head, but Karna reproached Bhima, saying he was unfit for battle and should return to the woods. Arjuna then shot arrows at Karna, driving him away from Bhima. Karna fled on his car, and Bhima followed, mounting Satyaki's car. Arjuna pursued Karna, shooting arrows and piercing the son of Drona, who was trying to rescue Karna.
139 Dhritarashtra lamented the fall of his warriors and the penetration of Arjuna into their host, protected by Drona's son and Karna. He felt that time was reversing his fortunes and that Dhananjaya's rage had increased his prowess. United with Krishna and Bhima, Arjuna's might had become irresistible. Dhritarashtra feared for the life of the ruler of the Sindhus, knowing that he could not escape Arjuna's wrath. He asked Sanjaya to describe the battle, particularly Satyaki's fight, which he had heard was fierce and remarkable. Sanjaya described how Satyaki, following Bhima, entered the enemy's host, slaughtering many warriors and causing chaos. His car was drawn by silver-hued steeds, and he roared like the clouds, blazing like the autumnal sun. None could check his progress, and he disturbed the enemy's troops repeatedly, like an elephant plunging into a lake. Alamvusha, a king, tried to stop him but was unable to check his progress. The two engaged in a fierce duel, exchanging arrows and showing great prowess. Satyaki eventually slew Alamvusha and his steeds and proceeded towards Arjuna, destroying enemy troops along the way. Sanjaya described Satyaki's valor and his ability to resist the enemy's attacks, and how he was borne by his excellent steeds. Arjuna and Krishna were filled with joy when they saw Satyaki's prowess in battle.
140 Sanjaya described Satyaki's remarkable bravery, saying he single-handedly vanquished the Trigarta warriors and approached Arjuna's car with incredible speed and agility. Krishna praised Satyaki, saying he had accomplished incredible feats, crossing the Kalinga division and defeating many warriors, and was now coming to Arjuna's aid. Arjuna, however, expressed concern and anxiety, wondering why Satyaki had left Yudhishthira's side and worrying about the king's safety. He feared Satyaki might be tired and vulnerable to Bhurisravas's attack, and was also concerned about Jayadratha, who had not yet been slain. Arjuna felt a heavy burden had been placed upon him, and was unsure if Satyaki would emerge victorious in his encounter with Bhurisravas. Krishna reassured Arjuna, saying Satyaki was a skilled warrior who had achieved great things, but Arjuna remained anxious about Satyaki's encounter with Bhurisravas and the king's well-being. Sanjaya continued describing Satyaki's prowess, saying he had vanquished many warriors and was a shining star among the Pandavas. Arjuna still worried, thinking it was a mistake for Yudhishthira to send Satyaki away, leaving him vulnerable to Drona's attacks. He feared for the king's safety and hoped Satyaki would emerge victorious.
141 Sanjaya described the intense battle between Satyaki and Bhurisravas, two formidable warriors who clashed in a frenzy of swords and shields. Bhurisravas, filled with rage, advanced towards Satyaki, boasting of his prowess and vowing to slay him. He mocked Satyaki, saying he would soon behead him and present his head to the Kuru king. Satyaki, unafraid, replied that he was not intimidated and would fight to the end. He taunted Bhurisravas, saying his boasts were empty and he would soon be defeated. The two warriors engaged in a fierce duel, exchanging blows and showing their skill. Bhurisravas struck Satyaki with his sword, but the latter managed to whirl his head free. As Satyaki seemed to gain the upper hand, Bhurisravas seized him by the hair and struck him with his foot. Just as Bhurisravas was about to behead Satyaki, Arjuna, prompted by Krishna, shot an arrow that cut off Bhurisravas's arm, saving Satyaki's life. The two warriors continued to fight, their movements swift and deadly, each determined to emerge victorious. Their duel was like a dance, with each step and blow expertly executed. The outcome was far from certain, as both warriors were evenly matched and refused to yield. The battle raged on, with neither side giving quarter, as the two warriors fought on, their strength and skill evenly matched.
142 Sanjaya described the intense battle between Bhurisravas and Satyaki, two skilled warriors who clashed in a frenzy of swords and shields. Bhurisravas rebuked Arjuna for cutting off his arm while he was engaged with Satyaki, calling it a cruel and heartless deed. Arjuna replied that he had acted to protect Satyaki, his disciple and kinsman, and that it was not a sinful act. He explained that as a Kshatriya, it was his duty to protect those on his side, and that he had judged the situation correctly. Bhurisravas, abandoning his fight, desired to die according to the vow of Praya, a noble and ancient practice. Despite being censured, Krishna and Arjuna spoke no ill words to him, showing respect for his honor and integrity. Bhurisravas, with his left hand, spread a bed of arrows and began to meditate, seeking to proceed to the region of Brahman, a realm of spiritual bliss. Arjuna reminded him of his vow to protect those on his side and justified his actions, explaining that he had acted to prevent Satyaki's death. Bhurisravas, silent and hanging his head, was praised by all for his righteous deeds and his commitment to his vows. Satyaki, however, desired to cut off his head, despite being forbidden by Krishna and others. He eventually did so, and the warriors did not applaud the act, recognizing that it was not in line with the code of honor and conduct that governed their actions. The Siddhas and Charanas, however, applauded Bhurisravas, amazed at his accomplishments and his dedication to his vows. Satyaki justified his actions, citing his vow and the fact that Bhurisravas had been almost slain by Arjuna already. He argued that the outcome was pre-ordained and that he had simply fulfilled the destiny that had been written for Bhurisravas.
143 Dhritarashtra asked how Satyaki, who had never been defeated before, was humiliated by Bhurisravas. Sanjaya explained that it was due to a boon granted by Mahadeva to Somadatta, Bhurisravas's father. Somadatta had been defeated by Sini, Satyaki's ancestor, and had sought a boon to defeat Sini's descendant. Mahadeva granted the boon, and Bhurisravas was born to fulfill it. Sanjaya praised the Vrishni heroes, including Satyaki, as invincible in battle and conversant with all modes of warfare. They are never confounded and always fight with their own energy. They are respectful to their kinsmen and truthful in speech, and their prowess is never baffled. Sanjaya attributed the events unfolding to Dhritarashtra's evil policy. The story of Sini and Somadatta's battle and the boon granted by Mahadeva was told to explain why Bhurisravas was able to defeat Satyaki. The Vrishni heroes are described as exceptional warriors who are devoted to the gods and truthful in speech, and their prowess is never baffled.
144 After Bhurisravas' death, Arjuna urged Krishna to take him to Jayadratha, determined to fulfill his vow to kill him before sunset. Despite being protected by many warriors, including Duryodhana, Karna, and Vrishasena, Arjuna bravely fought his way through the Kuru army. Karna, excited with wrath, tried to stop Arjuna, but the latter's arrows were too powerful. As the sun began to set, Arjuna and Karna engaged in a fierce duel, exchanging blows and demonstrating their exceptional skill and bravery. Arjuna's bow, Gandiva, twanged loudly as he shot arrow after arrow at Karna, who tried to counterattack but was ultimately unable to withstand Arjuna's onslaught. Aswatthaman tried to help Karna, but Arjuna's arrows were too powerful, and he was forced to retreat. The battle raged on, with Arjuna and Karna exchanging blows and demonstrating their exceptional skill and bravery. As the fight continued, Arjuna's determination to fulfill his vow only grew stronger. He fought with all his might, using his celestial weapons to devastating effect. Finally, Arjuna shot a powerful arrow that killed Karna's horses and charioteer, leaving him carless and driverless. Aswatthaman took Karna to his own chariot, and the battle continued, with Arjuna fighting against many warriors, including the ruler of the Madras, Vrishasena, and Drona's son. Despite being surrounded and attacked from all sides, Arjuna remained calm and continued to fight, determined to fulfill his vow and kill Jayadratha.
145 Arjuna fought through the Kuru army to reach Jayadratha, determined to fulfill his vow to kill him before sunset. With his bow, Gandiva, and his celestial weapons, he bravely battled his way through the enemy lines, defeating many warriors and heroes. Karna, Duryodhana, and Vrishasena tried to stop him, but Arjuna's skill and determination were too great. As the sun began to set, Arjuna and Karna engaged in a fierce duel, exchanging blows and demonstrating their exceptional bravery. Despite being surrounded by the Kuru army, Arjuna remained focused on his goal, using his weapons and his chariot to devastating effect. Krishna, his charioteer, expertly guided the horses, helping Arjuna to outmaneuver his enemies. As the battle raged on, Arjuna's determination only grew stronger, and he fought with all his might to reach Jayadratha and fulfill his vow. The outcome of the battle was far from certain, but Arjuna's bravery and skill made him a formidable opponent, and he remained determined to emerge victorious.
146 Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya to describe the battle after Jayadratha's death. Sanjaya said Arjuna fought through the Kuru army, determined to fulfill his vow. Kripa and Drona's son tried to stop him, but Arjuna's skill and determination prevailed. He showed mercy to Kripa, his preceptor, and Aswatthaman, Drona's son. Arjuna lamented that he had struck his preceptor and worried about going to hell. Krishna consoled him, saying Satyaki could handle Karna. Satyaki and Karna engaged in a fierce duel, scattering arrows. Karna was made carless, and his charioteer was slain. Vrishasena, Salya, and Drona's son surrounded Satyaki, but he fought bravely. Karna ascended Duryodhana's car, weakened and sighing. Satyaki spared Duryodhana's brothers, not wanting to falsify Bhima's vow. Dhritarashtra asked if Satyaki rode another car, and Sanjaya described the new car brought to Satyaki, adorned with gold and silk. Karna also received a new car, and the battle continued.
147 Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya to describe the battle between Bhima and Karna, saying, "When such was the condition of battle, between those heroes of their side and mine, what did Bhima then do? Tell me all, O Sanjaya!" Sanjaya replied, "After Bhimasena had been made carless, that hero, afflicted with the wordy darts of Karna and filled with rage, addressed Phalguna and said, 'In thy very sight, O Dhananjaya, Karna hath repeatedly said to me, "Eunuch, fool, glutton, unskilled in weapons, do not fight, child, unable to bear the burden of battle!"' He that would tell me so would be slain by me." Arjuna approached Karna, criticizing his false bravery and boasting, saying, "Thou art of false fight. O son of a Suta, thou applaudest thy own self. Of wicked understanding, listen now to what I tell thee. Heroes meet with either of these two things in battle, viz., victory or defeat." Arjuna reminded Karna of his past defeats and vowed to slay him and his followers. Krishna praised Arjuna, saying his vow had been accomplished and that he would soon slay Karna. Arjuna credited Krishna's grace for his success. Krishna showed Arjuna the battlefield, describing the fallen warriors and the earth covered with weapons, ornaments, and blood. He compared the scene to the autumnal sky and praised Arjuna's feat, saying only he or Indra could achieve such a victory. The passage continues with a vivid description of the battlefield, highlighting the devastation and the bravery of the warriors.
148 Sanjaya said, "After the ruler of the Sindhus was slain, Krishna worshipped King Yudhishthira, saying, 'By good luck, your prosperity increases. Your foe has been slain.' Yudhishthira, filled with joy, came down from his car and embraced Krishna and Arjuna, saying, 'By good luck, I behold you both after you have accomplished your task. You have filled me with great happiness.' He praised Krishna, saying, 'You are the sovereign lord of all worlds. Through your grace, we will conquer our foes.' He acknowledged Krishna's power and divinity, saying, 'You are the creator of all worlds, the Supreme Soul, and immutable.' Krishna and Arjuna cheerfully replied, 'The sinful king Jayadratha has been consumed by your wrath. The Dhartarashtra host is being exterminated.' Bhima and Satyaki, mangled with shafts, saluted their senior, and Yudhishthira congratulated them, saying, 'By good luck, I see you both escaped from that sea of troops.' He praised them, saying, 'You are heroes delighting in battle. You are to me as life.' The entire host of the Pandavas became cheerful and filled with joy, and all of them set their hearts on battle once more."
149 Sanjaya said, "Upon the fall of the ruler of the Sindhus, your son Suyodhana was filled with grief and affliction. He became pale and dejected, and his eyes filled with tears. He thought that no warrior could compare to Arjuna and that his vast host had been exterminated. He regretted that Karna, whom he had relied on, had been defeated and Jayadratha slain. He went to Drona and informed him of the immense slaughter of the Kurus and the victory of his foes. Suyodhana expressed his guilt and shame, saying that he was a coward and a transgressor against righteousness. He wished to free himself from the debt he owed to his allies who had died for him and desired to perform oblations to them. He vowed to exert his might and slay all the Panchalas with the Pandavas or be slain by them in battle. "He felt that his allies no longer desired to stand by him and that only Karna wished him victory. He lamented the loss of his friends and allies, including Jalasandha, the ruler of the Kamvojas, and Somadatta's son. He felt that he had failed in his duty to protect them and that his covetousness and sinful nature had led to their downfall. He sought Drona's permission to engage in battle and either achieve victory or meet his own end."
150 Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya about the state of mind of Drona after the fall of Bhurisravas and the ruler of the Sindhus. Sanjaya replied that Drona was filled with grief and reflected on the past events. He remembered telling Duryodhana that Arjuna was invincible and that the Pandavas were doomed. He lamented that his own advice was not heeded and that the Kurus were now facing defeat. He recalled the words of Vidura, who had warned of this calamity, and blamed Duryodhana for disregarding his advice. Drona expressed his sorrow and frustration, feeling that he was being pierced by wordy shafts. He vowed to fight on, despite his grief, and encouraged Aswatthaman to observe the instructions he had received and to always prioritize religion and righteousness. He urged Aswatthaman to be firm in acts of humility, self-restraint, truth, and righteousness, and to always accomplish acts that predominate in religion. Drona also reminded Aswatthaman to gratify the Brahmanas with presents and to worship them, as they are like flames of fire. He then proceeded against the Pandavas, determined to do great battle, despite being pierced by Duryodhana's wordy shafts.
 
151 Sanjaya said, "Duryodhana, filled with rage, blamed Drona for allowing Arjuna to penetrate the array and slay the ruler of the Sindhus. He exclaimed, 'Behold, the diadem-decked son of Pandu, with Krishna alone for helpmate, penetrated into the array formed by the preceptor, an array that the gods themselves could not pierce!' Karna defended Drona, saying that he was not at fault and that Arjuna's success was due to his own prowess and Fate. He reminded Duryodhana that they had all been exerting to the utmost of their might, but Fate had not smiled on them. He suggested that they continue to fight with resolution, setting Fate at nought, and that the outcome would depend on who excelled the other. Karna also noted that the Pandavas had not done anything unwise, and that Fate was responsible for the result of their acts. He pointed out that they had tried to injure the Pandavas through deceit and prowess, but Fate had baffled their exertions. Sanjaya continued, "While they were discoursing, the Pandava divisions appeared for battle, and a fierce battle ensued, all due to Duryodhana's evil policy. The clash of cars and elephants was terrific, and the earth trembled beneath their feet."
       
4 Ghatotkacha-badha 32 167.9 2:19:55
152 Sanjaya described the intense battle between the Pandavas and Kurus, with both sides suffering heavy losses. The elephant force of the Kurus, swelling with might, fought everywhere, prevailing over the Pandava force. The Panchalas and Kurus fought with one another, resolved to go to the other world, and brave warriors pierced one another with arrows and lances, despatching each other to Yama's abode. The battle was dreadful, with car-warriors, horsemen, and foot-soldiers engaging in fierce combat. The ten points of the compass were no longer illuminated, as the sun had set, and the warriors could only be distinguished by their tribal, family, and personal names. Duryodhana, filled with rage and determined to avenge the death of the ruler of Sindhus, penetrated deep into the Pandava host, causing chaos and destruction. The Pandavas were unable to withstand his attack and began to flee. Duryodhana's bow was soon broken by Yudhishthira, who also struck him with ten arrows. Duryodhana sat down in his chariot, and a loud cry arose from the Panchala troops, thinking the king was slain. However, Duryodhana soon recovered and rushed towards Yudhishthira, saying "Wait, Wait". The Panchalas advanced, and Drona intervened to rescue Duryodhana, destroying the Panchala warriors like the sun destroying clouds. A fierce battle ensued, with both sides determined to win.
153 Dhritarashtra asked how the Pandavas checked Drona's course when he penetrated their host in wrath, describing him as a mighty bowman endued with great strength. Sanjaya replied that many Pandava warriors, including Yudhishthira, Bhimasena, Nakula, Sahadeva, and Dhrishtadyumna, proceeded against Drona with their divisions. The Prabhadraka-Panchalas, led by Sikhandin, and other car-warriors also joined the battle. The night was pitch dark, and the sounds of drums, cymbals, and weapons created a dreadful confusion. The battle was fierce, with Drona alone piercing thousands of elephants, cars, and foot-soldiers with his shafts. The Pandavas and Srinjayas united against him, but many were obliged to turn back or were despatched to Yama's abode. The earth was covered with the bodies of the dead, and the dust raised by the combatants obscured the moon. The noise of the battle was like the sound of a burning forest, and the welkin was filled with the cries of jackals and crows. The Pandava host was illuminated by the golden coats of mail and ornaments of the warriors, and the field of battle looked like the firmament bespangled with stars.
154 Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya to describe the battle that occurred when Drona, filled with wrath, entered the Pandava ranks. Sanjaya replied that Drona slaughtered many Pandava warriors, including the Kaikeyas and the sons of Dhrishtadyumna. King Sivi, filled with rage, attacked Drona but was slain. The ruler of the Kalingas and his brother attacked Bhimasena, but Bhima slew them with his fists. Karna and other Kaurava warriors attempted to resist Bhima, but he crushed them. Bhima then slew Durmada and Dushkarna, causing the Kaurava troops to flee in terror. The Pandavas, including Yudhishthira, Nakula, Sahadeva, Drupada, and Virata, felt great joy at Bhima's feats. The Kauravas, led by Duryodhana, Kripa, and Aswatthaman, surrounded Bhima, but he remained unafraid. As the battle raged on, the Pandavas and Kauravas clashed in a fierce and deadly combat. The sound of drums, cymbals, and weapons filled the air, and the earth was covered with the bodies of the dead. The Pandavas, led by Bhima, fought valiantly, and the Kauravas, led by Duryodhana, resisted them with all their might. The battle was intense and brutal, with no quarter asked or given. In the end, the Pandavas emerged victorious, and the Kauravas were defeated and fled the field.
155 Drona enters Pandava ranks, slays many, Bhima fights back fiercely. With his wrathful eyes blazing like fire, Drona charges into the battle, his bow singing a deadly song. Many Pandava warriors fall before him, their weapons and armor shattered by his arrows. But Bhima, the mighty son of Pandu, refuses to back down. With his massive fists swinging like maces, he wades into the fray, determined to take down the formidable Drona. The two titans clash in a shower of sparks, their blows ringing out like thunder. Drona's arrows fly swift and true, but Bhima's fists are like mountains, unyielding and unstoppable. The Pandavas watch in awe as Bhima takes on the unconquerable Drona, his strength and valor unmatched. The battle rages on, the outcome hanging in the balance, as these two warriors fight for supremacy.
156 Sanjaya describes the intense battle between the Pandavas and Kauravas. Yudhishthira, Bhimasena, and Dhrishtadyumna unite to fight against Drona's son, Ashwatthama. Somadatta and Satyaki engage in a fierce duel, with Bhima intervening to aid Satyaki. Valhika, filled with rage, attacks Satyaki but is slain by Bhima. Ten of Dhritarashtra's sons then attack Bhima, but he kills them with his arrows. Bhima also slays Vrikaratha, Karna's brother, and seven other car-warriors. Yudhishthira, filled with wrath, begins to destroy the Kaurava ranks, slaying many warriors. Drona, urged on by Dhritarashtra's son, shrouds Yudhishthira with arrows, but Yudhishthira baffles his weapons with his own celestial weapons. The battle rages on, with both sides invoking powerful weapons and neither gaining the upper hand. Drona invokes the Aindra and Prajapatya weapons, but Yudhishthira counters with the Mahendra weapon. Drona then invokes the Brahma weapon, but Yudhishthira baffles it with his own Brahma weapon. The battle is fierce and intense, with both sides suffering heavy losses. The Pandavas and Kauravas are evenly matched, and it seems that the outcome is far from certain. The warriors on both sides are skilled and brave, and the battle rages on, with no end in sight. The sound of drums, cymbals, and weapons fills the air, and the earth is covered with the bodies of the dead.
157 Sanjaya describes the conversation between Karna and Kripa before the battle. Karna boasts that he will slay the Pandavas, but Kripa criticizes him, saying that his words are empty and that he has been defeated by the Pandavas before. Kripa also praises the Pandavas, saying that they are virtuous and skilled in battle, and that Arjuna is a formidable warrior who cannot be defeated by anyone, including Karna. Karna responds, saying that he will vanquish the Pandavas with the help of the dart given to him by Indra, which he claims is incapable of being baffled. He also threatens to cut out Kripa's tongue if he continues to insult him. Karna expresses confidence in his own abilities and in the strength of the Kaurava army, saying that they will be victorious despite the Pandavas' prowess. He also suggests that victory depends on destiny, and that even the mighty Bhishma and other great warriors have fallen in battle, proving that destiny plays a role. Karna is determined to fight to the utmost extent of his might for Duryodhana's sake, and is convinced that he will emerge victorious.
158 Aswatthaman, enraged by Karna's insults, rushed at him with scimitar in hand, determined to cut him down. However, Drona's son was stopped by the king and Kripa, who forgave Karna and calmed Aswatthaman down. Aswatthaman vowed to quell Karna's pride, but was pacified by Duryodhana, who reminded him of the greater threat of the Pandavas. The Pandavas and Panchalas approached, challenging Karna, who stood firm, drawing his bow and relying on his own strength. A fierce battle ensued, with Karna resisting the enemy's arrows and striking back with his own. The Pandavas and Panchalas fought valiantly, but Karna's prowess was unmatched. His arrows flew swift and true, striking down many brave warriors. Duryodhana praised Karna's bravery, but Aswatthaman warned him of the danger of underestimating the Pandavas. "Phalguna will not be easily defeated," he cautioned. As the battle raged on, Karna and Arjuna clashed, exchanging arrows and displaying their skill. Karna's bow was broken, and his steeds and driver were killed, but he continued to fight, determined to vanquish Arjuna. The two warriors were evenly matched, their arrows flying back and forth in a deadly dance. Karna's determination and skill were matched by Arjuna's prowess and the blessing of the gods. The outcome of the battle was far from certain, as these two great warriors fought on, their honor and pride at stake.
159 Sanjaya said, "Aswatthaman, enraged by Duryodhana's words, vowed to destroy the Pandavas. He said, 'I will fight with resolution and lay down my life for thee, O king. I will slay a large number of the enemy and afflict the Chedis, Panchalas, and Somakas.' He proceeded to battle, afflicting all bowmen. The Panchalas and Somakas fled, and Dhrishtadyumna rushed against Aswatthaman. The two warriors exchanged arrows, and Aswatthaman covered Dhrishtadyumna with clouds of arrows. Dhrishtadyumna said, 'Thou knowest not my origin or vow. I will slay thy sire and then despatch thee.' Aswatthaman mustered all his rage and answered, 'Wait!' He gazed at Dhrishtadyumna, burning him with his eyes, and covered him with arrows. The two warriors fought fiercely, unable to brook each other. The Siddhas and Charanas applauded them highly. Aswatthaman cut off Dhrishtadyumna's bow, standard, and umbrella, and slew his drivers and steeds. He caused the Panchalas to fly away and began to slay them in hundreds and thousands. The Pandava host trembled in fear, and Aswatthaman looked resplendent like the blazing fire at the end of the Yuga."
160 Sanjaya continued describing the battle, emphasizing the ferocity and determination of the warriors on both sides. The Kauravas, led by Duryodhana, were determined to avenge their fallen comrades, while the Pandavas, led by Yudhishthira, were equally determined to secure victory. The battlefield was a chaotic scene of clashing swords, flying arrows, and thundering chariots. The sky was darkened by the dust and smoke of battle, and the air was filled with the sounds of war. The warriors fought with unmatched courage and skill, each determined to emerge victorious. As the battle raged on, it became clear that this would be a fight to the death, with neither side willing to yield. The outcome of the battle was uncertain, but the bravery and determination of the warriors on both sides were beyond question. The clash of arms, the cries of the wounded, and the roars of the combatants created a symphony of war that echoed across the battlefield, a testament to the ferocity and resolve of the combatants.
161 Sanjaya said, "Yudhishthira and Bhimasena, surrounded Drona's son on all sides, their weapons at the ready. King Duryodhana, aided by Bharadwaja's son, rushed against the Pandavas with a fierce cry, determined to protect his troops. A battle unlike any other ensued, with Yudhishthira and Bhima slaying many warriors and sending others fleeing in terror. Arjuna, his white steeds galloping swiftly, despatched the Yaudheyas, Mountaineers, and Malavas to the realm of the dead. Elephants fell like double-crested hills, their trunks severed and their bodies mangled. The earth was miry with blood, and the air was filled with the cries of the wounded and the dying. The field of battle was strewn with gold-adorned umbrellas, resembling the firmament at the end of the Yuga bespangled with suns, moons, and stars. A fierce uproar arose near Drona's car, as he destroyed foes with the Vayavya weapon, his anger and skill unmatched. The Panchalas fled in fear, abandoning their weapons and their wounded, but Arjuna and Bhima checked their flight and attacked Drona's force with renewed vigor. They poured dense showers of arrows on Bharadwaja's son, their aim unerring and their strength unyielding. The Srinjayas, Panchalas, Matsyas, and Somakas followed them, their hearts filled with courage and their souls filled with honor. Many car-warriors supported Drona, their weapons and armor glinting in the fading light of day, but the Bharata host was slaughtered and began to break. Duryodhana and Drona tried to rally them, their voices hoarse from shouting and their bodies weary from fighting, but the troops fled in all directions, overwhelmed with fear and unable to withstand the fury of the Pandavas."
162 Sanjaya said, "During the fierce battle, darkness enveloped the world, and the combatants fought blindly. Drona, Karna, and Kripa fought valiantly, but the darkness caused confusion and panic. The warriors became disoriented, and thousands of car-warriors and foot-soldiers were slaughtered. Dhritarashtra asked, "How did the Pandava troops become visible again?" Sanjaya replied, "Drona placed himself at the van, and Salya at the rear. Duryodhana ordered the foot-soldiers to take up blazing lamps, and the gods and Rishis also took up lamps. The Kuru army was illuminated, and Drona's golden armor shone like the midday sun. The light reflected from the weapons and ornaments, creating a dazzling display. The Pandavas also illuminated their army, placing lamps on elephants, cars, and steeds. The faces of the warriors, trembling with ardor, looked beautiful like masses of clouds. The host blazed with splendor, and the weapons and ornaments created a fierce effulgence. The armies became visible, and the battle raged on."
163 Sanjaya said, "When the darkness lifted, the warriors engaged in fierce battle, their weapons and armor shining in the light of thousands of lamps. The earth was ablaze with lamps, like a conflagration at the end of the world. The two armies clashed, with elephants, horses, and car-warriors fighting fiercely. Arjuna penetrated the Kaurava ranks, weakening all the kings. Dhritarashtra asked, "What was the state of your minds when Arjuna entered our army? Who protected Drona, and how did he meet his death?" Sanjaya replied, "Duryodhana ordered his brothers to protect Drona from the rear, while the Trigarta car-warriors protected him from the front. Drona was mighty in battle, but was eventually slain by Dhrishtadyumna. The battle was fierce and terrible, with both sides actuated by the desire of victory. Arjuna afflicted the Kauravas, and they afflicted him in return. The battle raged on, with Drona's son and Drona himself covering their enemies with showers of arrows."
164 Sanjaya said, "During the nocturnal engagement, Yudhishthira commanded his troops to proceed against Drona alone. The Panchalas and Somakas rushed against Drona, uttering terrible shouts. Kritavarman, the son of Hridika, rushed against Yudhishthira, and the two engaged in a fierce battle. Other warriors also engaged in intense fighting, including Karna, Bhuri, and Duryodhana. Drona's son, Aswatthaman, resisted Bhimasena's son, Rakshasa, while Sakuni resisted Nakula. The battle raged on, with elephant riders and horsemen clashing and men slaughtering each other with various weapons. Kritavarman and Yudhishthira engaged in a intense duel, with Kritavarman ultimately emerging victorious and causing Yudhishthira to retreat from battle. The Pandava warriors advanced against Drona, but were met with resistance from the Kuru warriors. The battle was fierce and intense, with both sides determined to win. Drona's son, Aswatthaman, and Kritavarman, the son of Hridika, were particularly skilled and brave in battle.
165 Sanjaya said, "Bhuri resisted Satyaki, and they engaged in a fierce battle. Satyaki pierced Bhuri with five shafts, and Bhuri returned the attack, piercing Satyaki with ten shafts. The battle raged on, with both warriors mangling each other. Satyaki cut off Bhuri's bow and pierced him with nine arrows, killing him. Aswatthaman then attacked Satyaki, shrouding him with showers of shafts. Ghatotkacha intervened, addressing Aswatthaman and vowing to slay him. Aswatthaman dispelled Ghatotkacha's arrowy shower and pierced him with hundreds of arrows. The battle between the two warriors was fierce, with sparks generated by their clashing weapons illuminating the sky. Ghatotkacha struck Aswatthaman with ten shafts, but Aswatthaman recovered and pierced Ghatotkacha with a terrible shaft, knocking him unconscious. Aswatthaman then roared loudly, and his body blazed like the midday sun. Meanwhile, Bhimasena battled Duryodhana, piercing him with nine arrows. Duryodhana returned the attack, piercing Bhimasena with twenty arrows. The battle between the two warriors was intense, with both sides exchanging blows."
166 Sanjaya said, "Karna, the son of Vikartana, resisted the mighty car-warrior Sahadeva, who advanced towards him with the desire of getting at Drona. Sahadeva pierced the son of Radha with nine shafts, and once more pierced that warrior with nine straight arrows. Karna, however, was not shaken and pierced Sahadeva in return with a hundred straight shafts. Displaying great lightness of hand, he cut off the latter's stringed bow. Sahadeva, undeterred, took up another bow and pierced Karna with twenty arrows. This feat of his seemed exceedingly wonderful. Then Karna, slaying Sahadeva's steeds with many straight shafts, speedily dispatched the latter's driver with a broad-headed shaft to Yama's abode. This carless Sahadeva then took up a sword and shield, but even those weapons were cut off by Karna, who was smiling the while. Sahadeva, enraged, hurled a heavy and terrible mace decked with gold at Karna, but Karna cut it off with his shafts. The son of Madri then quickly jumped down from his excellent car and hurled a dart at Karna, but that too was cut off. Sahadeva, deprived of all weapons, was struck by Karna with many shafts and left the battle."
167 Sanjaya said, "The ruler of the Madras and Virata engaged in a fierce battle, exchanging arrows. The ruler of the Madras slew Virata's steeds and umbrella, but Virata ascended his brother's car and covered the ruler's car with arrows. The ruler of the Madras pierced Virata, who swooned and was borne away. The troops fled, and Vasudeva and Dhananjaya advanced to where Salya was stationed. Alamvusha, a Rakshasa prince, riding a car with eight steeds, proceeded against Arjuna. The battle between them was fierce, scattering arrows and filling spectators with wonder. Arjuna struck Alamvusha with six shafts, cut off his standard, driver, and bow, and pierced him with four arrows. The Rakshasa fled, and Arjuna proceeded towards Drona, shooting shafts at men, elephants, and steeds. The combatants fell like trees laid low by a tempest, and the rest fled like a frightened herd of deer."
168 Sanjaya said, "Chitrasena resisted Satanika, who was scorching thy host with keen shafts. They exchanged arrows, and Chitrasena's armor was cut off. He took up another bow and pierced Satanika, who slew his steeds and driver. Chitrasena ascended Hridika's car. Vrishasena rushed against Drupada, scattering shafts, and pierced him with sixty arrows. Drupada's son pierced Vrishasena's bow, and he took up another. They exchanged arrows, and Drupada fell, pierced by Vrishasena's arrow. His driver bore him away. The Kaurava army rushed against Drupada's troops, and the earth was illuminated by lamps. The Panchalas fled, afflicted by Vrishasena's arrows. Duhsasana proceeded against Prativindhya, and they exchanged arrows. Duhsasana felled Prativindhya's steeds and driver, and cut off his car and banner. Prativindhya stood, bow in hand, and contended with Duhsasana, who cut off his bow and afflicted him with arrows. His brothers rushed to rescue him, and a fierce battle ensued."
169 Sanjaya said, "Sakuni rushed against Nakula, and they exchanged arrows. Both pierced and bathed in blood, they looked like porcupines or Kalpa trees. Nakula swooned, and Sakuni roared in triumph. Recovering, Nakula pierced Sakuni with sixty arrows and cut off his bow and standard. Sakuni fell, and his driver bore him away. Sikhandin and Kripa engaged in a fierce battle, covering the sky with arrows. Sikhandin cut off Kripa's bow and dart, and Kripa took up another bow and covered Sikhandin with arrows. The Panchalas and Somakas surrounded Sikhandin, and a battle ensued. The field of battle was fierce, with infantry, horses, and elephants smiting one another. The sound of retreating and rushing troops was deafening, and the blazing lamps on cars and elephants lit up the field like day. In the darkness and dust, warriors slew their own kin, and friends slew friends. The battle was fierce and dreadful, with no regard for one another. The combatants fought furiously, their valor and weapons overshadowed by the blazing lamps."
170 Sanjaya said, "Dhrishtadyumna and Drona engaged in a fierce battle. Dhrishtadyumna pierced Drona with five arrows, but Drona cut off his bow. Dhrishtadyumna took up another bow and shot a terrible shaft, but Karna cut it off. The two armies clashed, and Dhrishtadyumna was surrounded by seven heroes, who pierced him with many arrows. He pierced each of them in return, but was eventually struck by Drumasena, who cut off his head. Satyaki arrived and pierced Karna with ten arrows, and a fierce battle ensued. Karna's son, Vrishasena, was slain, and Karna became enraged. He and Satyaki exchanged many arrows, but Satyaki eventually cut off Karna's bow and leathern fences. Karna took up another bow and continued fighting. Meanwhile, Arjuna's twang of Gandiva was heard, and Karna knew that Arjuna was approaching. He urged his troops to focus on slaying Satyaki and Dhrishtadyumna, and then they could defeat the Pandavas. Sakuni led a large force against the Pandavas, while Karna continued to fight Satyaki."
171 Sanjaya said, "The kings of your army, angry and unable to defeat Yuyudhana, surrounded him with their cars, cavalry, and elephants. They showered arrows on him, but he cut them off with his own arrows. The field of battle was filled with the bodies of the slain and the wails of the dying. Duryodhana rushed at Yuyudhana, who pierced him with arrows and killed his steeds and driver. Duryodhana retreated and mounted Kritavarman's car. Meanwhile, Sakuni and his forces fought Arjuna, who checked their advance and slew many warriors. Sakuni pierced Arjuna with arrows, but Arjuna struck him back and cut off his bow. Uluka and Sakuni then rode on the same car and showered arrows on Arjuna, who pierced them both and caused the Kaurava army to flee. Dhrishtadyumna pierced Drona and cut off his bowstring, and then began to destroy the Kaurava host. A river of blood flowed between the two armies, bearing away men and animals. Dhrishtadyumna and the Pandavas blew their conchs, having vanquished thousands of kings on the Kaurava side."
172 Sanjaya said, "Thy son, seeing his army routed, reproached Karna and Drona, saying they had promised to vanquish the Pandavas but now stood indifferent. He urged them to fight with their true prowess. Pierced by his words, they engaged in battle once more. Drona and Karna rushed against the Pandavas, who united against them. Drona slew many Kshatriyas, and the Pandava army fled, throwing down their torches. The world was enveloped in darkness, and only the light from the Kaurava troops illuminated the flight of the foe. Drona and Karna pursued the host, scattering shafts. Janardana, seeing the Panchalas slaughtered, urged Arjuna to fight on, saying Bhima was coming to support them. The Pandava warriors, led by Arjuna and Janardana, returned to battle, and a fierce encounter ensued, resembling two oceans swelling at moonrise."
173 Sanjaya said, "Karna struck Dhrishtadyumna with ten shafts, but the latter quickly pierced Karna with five arrows. They shrouded each other in showers of arrows, and Karna slew Dhrishtadyumna's driver and steeds. Dhrishtadyumna took up a mace and jumped down from his car, but Karna cut off his bow and slew his driver. Dhrishtadyumna ascended Arjuna's car, but Yudhishthira bade him desist. Karna twanged his bow and blew his conch, and the Panchalas and Somakas, excited with rage, proceeded towards him. Karna afflicted them with his shafts, and they fled in fear. Horsemen and elephant-riders fell from their animals, and Karna cut off the arms and heads of the fleeing warriors. Yudhishthira addressed Arjuna, saying, 'Behold Karna, like Rudra himself, scorching everything around. Our army is flying away, and our troops are broken and mangled.' Arjuna replied, 'I cannot bear to see Karna careering thus. Proceed to that spot where Karna is.' Vasudeva said, 'I behold Karna, that tiger among men, careering in battle. None else can encounter him except thee or Ghatotkacha. Let Ghatotkacha proceed against Karna.' Ghatotkacha proudly said, 'Here I am, command me.' Vasudeva addressed Ghatotkacha, saying, 'The time is come for the display of thy prowess. Thou hast diverse weapons and Rakshasa illusions. Rescue thy kinsmen, and slay Karna in battle.'"
175 Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya to describe the battle between Karna and Ghatotkacha. Sanjaya described Ghatotkacha as a gigantic Rakshasa with blood-red eyes, a copper-hued face, and a large mouth with sharp teeth. He wore a golden diadem and a cuirass, and his car was decked with bells and banners. His steeds were like infuriated elephants, and his driver was a fierce Rakshasa. Ghatotkacha and Karna engaged in a fierce duel, shooting arrows and mangling each other's bodies. Ghatotkacha invoked his Rakshasa illusion, surrounding himself with a large force of Rakshasas. Karna destroyed the illusion with celestial weapons, but Ghatotkacha continued to fight, assuming different forms and sizes. He poured down rocks and trees on Karna, who cut them off with his shafts. Ghatotkacha assumed many fierce heads and devoured Karna's celestial weapons. He became invisible, then reappeared in a prodigious form, only to be struck down by Karna's shafts. The Rakshasa continued to fight, creating illusions and assuming different forms, but Karna destroyed them all. Finally, Ghatotkacha made himself invisible, vowing to destroy Karna.
176 Sanjaya described the arrival of Alayudha, a powerful Rakshasa, on the battlefield. Alayudha sought revenge for the death of his kinsmen, Vaka, Kirmira, and Hidimva, at the hands of Bhima. He offered to fight the Pandavas alone, desiring to slay Bhima and his followers. Duryodhana accepted his offer and placed him at the forefront of the battle. Alayudha rode a car similar to Ghatotkacha's, with bear-skins and a hundred flesh-eating steeds yoked to it. His shafts were as large as Ghatotkacha's, and his standard was pierced by vultures and ravens. He was mightier and more handsome than Ghatotkacha, with a blazing face and black, hard skin. Armed with various weapons, he looked like a roving cloud with flashes of lightning. The Pandava kings engaged Alayudha in battle with joyous hearts, eager for the fight. Alayudha's arrival intensified the battle, as he sought revenge for his kinsmen's deaths. His presence was a significant development in the ongoing conflict.
177 Sanjaya described the intense battle between the Kauravas and the Pandavas. Alayudha, a powerful Rakshasa, joined the fight, seeking to slay Ghatotkacha. Bhimasena rushed to Ghatotkacha's aid, and the two Rakshasas engaged in a fierce duel. Alayudha's followers fled, but he continued to fight, exchanging blows with Bhimasena. The battle raged on, with both sides using various weapons and showing great prowess. Krishna, observing the fight, urged Arjuna to assist Bhimasena, who was struggling against Alayudha. Meanwhile, other Pandava warriors engaged Karna and the other Rakshasas. The battle was intense, with both sides suffering heavy blows. Bhimasena and Alayudha fought on, their strength and fury unabated. As the fight continued, the earth trembled, and the sound of their maces clashing echoed through the air. Finally, Krishna intervened, sending Hidimva's son to aid Bhimasena and slay Alayudha. The battle was fierce and unrelenting, with both sides determined to emerge victorious.
178 Sanjaya told Dhritarashtra that Vasudeva urged Ghatotkacha to save Bhima from Alayudha's attack. Ghatotkacha abandoned Karna and engaged Alayudha in a fierce battle. The two Rakshasas exchanged blows, and Ghatotkacha eventually slew Alayudha with a mace. The Pandavas and Panchalas celebrated the victory, beating drums and blowing conchs. Meanwhile, Karna fought other Pandava warriors, but they held their own against him. Bhima rushed to Ghatotkacha's aid, and together they fought Alayudha. The battle was intense, with both sides using various weapons and showing great prowess. Ghatotkacha eventually emerged victorious, slaying Alayudha and throwing his head before Duryodhana. The Kuru king was filled with anxiety, realizing that his troops were no match for the Pandavas. Alayudha's death was a significant blow to the Kauravas, and the Pandavas celebrated their victory with music and cheers.
179 Sanjaya told Dhritarashtra that Ghatotkacha, filled with delight after slaying Alayudha, began to utter loud roars, causing fear among the Kauravas. Karna rushed against the Panchalas, piercing Dhrishtadyumna and Sikhandin with his arrows. The nocturnal battle raged on, with Ghatotkacha and Karna exchanging blows. Ghatotkacha invoked a fierce weapon, slaying Karna's steeds and driver. He then disappeared, causing the Kauravas to worry that he would reappear and slay Karna. Karna covered the sky with his arrows, but Ghatotkacha's illusion persisted. The Rakshasa created a mass of red clouds, emitting flashes of lightning and blazing brands. The Kauravas were afflicted by Ghatotkacha's shower of arrows, and their cries of "Oh" and "Alas" filled the air. The leaders, however, stood firm, and the battle continued. Ghatotkacha's illusion was finally destroyed, and he was slain by Karna's dart. The Kauravas rejoiced, but Ghatotkacha's death was not in vain, as he had slain a full Akshauhini of the Kaurava troops before falling. The Pandavas and Panchalas beat drums and blew conchs, celebrating their victory.
180 Sanjaya told Arjuna that Vasudeva was overjoyed at Ghatotkacha's death, despite the Pandavas' grief. Arjuna was puzzled by Vasudeva's celebration and asked him to explain. Vasudeva revealed that Karna's dart, which had slain Ghatotkacha, had been baffled, making Karna vulnerable. Vasudeva explained that Karna's natural armor and earrings, which made him invincible, had been taken away by Sakra, the king of the gods. Vasudeva credited Sakra with helping to remove Karna's armor and earrings, making it possible for Arjuna to defeat him. Vasudeva described Karna as a powerful warrior, capable of vanquishing the three worlds, but now, without his dart and armor, he was like a snake without venom. Vasudeva assured Arjuna that he would have the opportunity to kill Karna when his car wheels sank into the earth, and instructed Arjuna to be prepared to strike at that moment. Vasudeva also revealed that he had helped to eliminate other threats to Arjuna, including Jarasandha, the ruler of Magadha, and Ekalavya, the mighty-armed Nishada. Vasudeva had slain these warriors to protect Arjuna and ensure his victory. With Karna's dart baffled and his armor gone, Vasudeva was confident that Arjuna would emerge victorious.
181 Arjuna asked Vasudeva how Jarasandha and other powerful warriors were slain, and Vasudeva explained that they were killed through clever means, as they were too powerful to be defeated in direct combat. Jarasandha, who was formed from two halves of a child united by a Rakshasa woman named Jara, was slain by Bhimasena after being deprived of his mace. Ekalavya, the Nishada king's son, was deprived of his thumb by Drona and later slain by Vasudeva himself. The ruler of the Chedis was also slain by Vasudeva, and Hidimva, Vaka, and Kirmira were slain by Bhimasena. Alayudha was slain by Ghatotkacha, and Vasudeva ensured that Karna's dart was used to slay Ghatotkacha. Vasudeva explained that these warriors were slain to protect Arjuna and ensure his victory. He reassured Arjuna that he would help him slay Karna and Suyodhana, and that righteousness would prevail. Vasudeva emphasized that his purpose was to establish righteousness and protect the innocent. He urged Arjuna to focus on the battle, as the enemy was gaining ground. With his encouragement, Arjuna prepared to face the challenges ahead, knowing that Vasudeva's guidance and support would be crucial in the fight against evil.
182 Dhritarashtra lamented that Karna's dart, which could have slain Arjuna, was instead used to kill Ghatotkacha. He questioned why Karna didn't use the dart against Arjuna, and Sanjaya explained that Vasudeva had orchestrated events to render Karna's dart fruitless. Sanjaya revealed that Vasudeva had protected Arjuna and manipulated events to prevent Karna from using the dart against him. Dhritarashtra and his advisors had frequently discussed using the dart to kill Arjuna, but Vasudeva's intervention had thwarted their plans. Vasudeva had even stupefied Karna to prevent him from using the dart against Arjuna. Sanjaya explained that Vasudeva's goal was to protect Arjuna and ensure the Pandavas' victory. Vasudeva had also despatched Ghatotkacha to engage Karna in battle, knowing that Karna's dart would be used to kill the Rakshasa prince. This had rendered the dart fruitless, and Arjuna had been saved from certain death. Sanjaya praised Vasudeva's wisdom and cunning, which had turned the tide of the battle in favor of the Pandavas.
183 Dhritarashtra lamented that Karna's dart was used to kill Ghatotkacha instead of Arjuna or Krishna, wondering why Karna didn't use it against one of the Pandava brothers. Sanjaya explained that destiny played a role in this, and that Karna had forgotten his resolution to use the dart against Arjuna due to divine illusion. Dhritarashtra asked how the battle continued after Ghatotkacha's fall, and Sanjaya described how the Pandavas were filled with grief and wrath. Yudhishthira was particularly affected, remembering Ghatotkacha's services and his own affection for the Rakshasa prince. He felt a deep sense of loss and responsibility, knowing that Ghatotkacha had given his life to protect the Pandavas. Krishna encouraged Yudhishthira to rise and fight, reminding him of his duty as a warrior and a king. Yudhishthira eventually proceeded against Karna with his formidable bow and conch, determined to avenge Ghatotkacha's death. Vyasa appeared and advised Yudhishthira not to yield to anger or grief, but to unite with his brothers and fight with righteousness. Vyasa reminded Yudhishthira that the end of all creatures is death, and that Ghatotkacha's sacrifice would not be in vain. He encouraged Yudhishthira to focus on virtue, kindness, penance, charity, forgiveness, and truth, and to remember that victory is on the side of righteousness.
       
5 Drona-vadha 10 133.3 1:51:01
184 Sanjaya told Dhritarashtra that Yudhishthira refrained from killing Karna due to Vyasa's words. However, Yudhishthira was filled with grief and anger over Ghatotkacha's death and ordered his warriors to resist Drona. The Pandavas and Kauravas engaged in a fierce battle, but as the night wore on, the warriors grew tired and sleepy. Arjuna suggested that they rest until the moon rose, and the warriors agreed. They laid down their weapons and fell asleep, exhausted. The army looked like a painting, with warriors and animals sleeping together. Some warriors slept on horseback, while others lay on the ground or on the necks of elephants. The elephants themselves were heavy with sleep, their trunks curled up and their breath visible in the cool night air. The steeds stamped their hoofs, making the ground uneven. The warriors, worn out with exertion, slept soundly, their bodies mangled by shafts and their limbs covered in dust. The moon rose, illuminating the scene, and the warriors awoke, ready to continue the battle. The host was awakened like an assemblage of lotuses expanding in the sun or the ocean swelling with agitated surges at the rise of the moon. The warriors stretched their limbs and took up their weapons, ready to face the enemy once again. The battle resumed, with the Pandavas and Kauravas clashing in a frenzy of arrows and swords.
185 Duryodhana, filled with wrath, approached Drona and rebuked him for showing mercy to the Pandavas. Drona responded, "I am still exerting myself in battle to the utmost extent of my might. If I slay the Pandavas, it will be an ignoble act." Duryodhana boasted that he, Karna, and Duhsasana would slay Arjuna, but Drona laughed and said, "Only fools would say such words. Arjuna is unslayable, and even Indra and Yama cannot withstand him." Drona continued, "You are sinful and cruel, and your words are empty. If you seek battle, go against Arjuna yourself. Your maternal uncle, Sakuni, is wise and skilled in Kshatriya duties. Let him proceed against Arjuna in battle." Drona reminded Duryodhana of his boastful words and urged him to accomplish his vow and observe the duties of a Kshatriya. The battle commenced, with Drona and Arjuna facing each other.
186 The battle resumed at dawn, with the Kurus and Pandavas clashing fiercely. Arjuna, with Krishna's guidance, pierced the Kuru host, while Bhimasena urged him to pay his debt to Truth, Prosperity, Virtue, and Fame. Drona, with Duryodhana and Karna, resisted Arjuna, but he baffled their weapons and covered them with his shafts. The battle raged on, with dust and showers of arrows filling the sky. Drona moved away from the battle and took up a new position, causing the Pandava troops to tremble. Drupada and Virata attacked Drona, but he vanquished them, and then slew the three grandsons of Drupada. Dhrishtadyumna, filled with rage and grief, swore to kill Drona or lose his merits and energy. The Panchalas and Arjuna attacked Drona from different sides, but he was protected by Duryodhana, Karna, and Sakuni. Bhimasena rebuked Dhrishtadyumna for his indifference and penetrated into Drona's array, followed by Dhrishtadyumna, who engaged Drona in battle. The fierce encounter continued, with cars entangled and bodies scattered all over the field. The warriors fought with all their might, their weapons clashing and their horses neighing. The sound of drums and conchs filled the air, and the earth shook beneath their feet. The battle was so fierce that it seemed as if the end of the world had come.
187 The battle resumed at sunrise, with warriors adoring the rising sun. The noise of conchs, drums, and weapons filled the air, and the earth shook beneath their feet. Horsemen, car-warriors, elephants, and foot-soldiers engaged in fierce combat, their weapons clashing and their horses neighing. The sound of swords and scimitars drew blood, and the field became a crematorium. Elephants and steeds were worn out, and the warriors were shrouded in clouds of dust. Duryodhana, Karna, Drona, and Duhsasana engaged in battle with the Pandava warriors. The car-warriors beheld the beautiful and terrible encounter, their cars performing diverse evolutions. The warriors, filled with wrath and desire of revenge, covered each other with showers of shafts. The field of battle was strewn with lopped off arms and legs, heads, and beautiful armor. The warriors, filled with courage, rushed at each other like infuriated leaders of elephantine herds. Death did not take place till its hour came, and the battle continued with vigor. The earth was soon covered with a carpet of blood, and the warriors fought on, their weapons clashing and their horses neighing. The sound of drums and conchs filled the air, and the field became a sea of carnage. The warriors were undaunted, their hearts filled with valor and their souls with honor. They fought on, their weapons flashing in the sunlight, their armor shining like gold. The battle was a spectacle, a display of bravery and skill, a testament to the warriors' prowess.
188 Duhsasana rushed at Sahadeva, but Sahadeva quickly cut off the head of Duhsasana's driver. The steeds ran wildly, and Duhsasana took control, fighting beautifully. Sahadeva pierced the steeds, and they ran away. Karna came to rescue Duhsasana, and a fierce battle ensued between Bhima and Karna. They fought with maces, and Bhima broke Karna's mace. Karna took up another bow and slew Bhima's steeds and drivers. Bhima jumped into Nakula's car. Meanwhile, Drona and Arjuna fought a stupendous battle, displaying their skill and sureness of aim. They performed beautiful revolutions with their cars, each trying to gain the upper hand. Drona invoked various celestial weapons, but Arjuna destroyed them. Drona applauded Arjuna's skill, and the celestials and Gandharvas watched in wonder. The battle was so fierce that it seemed to shake the earth and darken the sky. The Siddhas and Rishis said it was a high Brahma encounter, beyond human or Asura capabilities. Drona invoked the Brahma weapon, but Arjuna baffled it with his own Brahma weapon, pacifying the agitation in nature. The battle continued, with neither side able to gain a decisive advantage.
189 missing
190 Duhsasana encountered Dhrishtadyumna, who showered arrows upon his steeds. Duhsasana's car became invisible under the arrows, and he was forced to turn back. Dhrishtadyumna proceeded towards Drona, while Nakula and Sahadeva protected him. Kritavarman and his brothers attempted to oppose Dhrishtadyumna but were checked by the twins. Duryodhana rushed to the spot, scattering arrows, and was met by Satyaki. The two exchanged words, recalling their childhood friendship, but prepared to fight. Satyaki advanced fearlessly, and Duryodhana received him with a shower of arrows. A fierce battle ensued, with both warriors exhibiting great skill and prowess. Karna rushed to rescue Duryodhana but was met by Bhimasena, who crushed his bow and driver with a mace. The battle became general, with the Panchalas and Matsyas engaging the Dhartarashtras. Yudhishthira urged his warriors to fight, and they proceeded against Drona, who was assailed from all sides. The Pandavas had three mighty car-warriors - Bhimasena and the twins - who addressed Arjuna, urging him to drive away the Kurus and facilitate Drona's defeat.
191 Drona caused a great carnage among the Panchalas, and the Pandavas became hopeless of victory. Kesava advised Arjuna to adopt a contrivance to gain victory, suggesting that Drona would cease to fight if he believed his son Aswatthaman was slain. Bhima slew an elephant named Aswatthaman and exclaimed, "Aswatthaman hath been slain!" Drona was momentarily disheartened but soon recovered, remembering his son's prowess. Enraged, Drona invoked the Brahma weapon and slaughtered twenty thousand Panchala car-warriors. The Rishis, including Viswamitra and Bharadwaja, appeared and rebuked Drona for fighting unrighteously. They advised him to lay aside his weapons and adhere to the eternal path. Drona became cheerless and asked Yudhishthira if his son was slain. Yudhishthira, induced by Govinda's counsel and destiny, told an untruth, saying Aswatthaman was dead, adding indistinctly "elephant". Drona, believing his son was slain, yielded to despair and could no longer fight.
192 Dhrishtadyumna, the son of the Panchala king, rushed at Drona, who was filled with anxiety and grief. Dhrishtadyumna took up a formidable bow and fixed a fierce arrow, which Drona tried to baffle. However, his weapons no longer appeared at his bidding, and his arrows became exhausted. Drona took up another celestial bow and continued to fight, covering Dhrishtadyumna with a thick shower of arrows. The two warriors exchanged blows, with Dhrishtadyumna using his sword and shield. Drona pierced the white steeds of Dhrishtadyumna, who then sprang towards him with his sword. Dhrishtadyumna performed various evolutions, but Drona cut off his sword and shield. Satyaki then intervened, cutting off Drona's shaft and rescuing Dhrishtadyumna. Kesava and Dhananjaya applauded Satyaki's prowess, and the three of them rushed towards the Kurus. Dhananjaya praised Satyaki, saying he was sporting before the preceptor and other mighty car-warriors, and gladdening the Pandavas. The warriors of both armies applauded Satyaki's feats.
193 Duryodhana and others, filled with rage, surrounded Satyaki, who was rescued by King Yudhishthira and the Pandavas. Karna, Kripa, and Duryodhana resisted Satyaki, but he baffled their arrows with his celestial weapons. The battle raged on, with many warriors falling on both sides. Drona, knowing his time had come, desired to give up life by fighting fairly. He was encompassed by the troops of Drupada's son and began to career in battle, consuming large numbers of Kshatriyas. Bhima took Dhrishtadyumna on his car and urged him to slay Drona. Dhrishtadyumna covered Drona with arrows, but Drona cut off his bow and pierced him with many arrows. Bhima held Drona's car and rebuked him for fighting for the sake of his son. Drona laid aside his bow and devoted himself to Yoga, fixing his heart on Vishnu. He repaired to heaven, and his body mangled with arrows and bathed in blood. Dhrishtadyumna beheaded Drona, and his troops ran away in all directions. The Pandavas gained victory and made loud sounds with their arrows and conchs, while the Kurus regarded themselves as deprived of both worlds.
194 After Drona's fall, the Kauravas fled in fear, unable to stay and fight. They were afflicted with grief, hunger, and thirst, and their voices were choked with fear. The Pandavas prevailed, and the Kauravas became cheerless and destitute. Duryodhana fled, taking with him the remnant of the Samsaptakas. Only Drona's son, Aswatthaman, rushed against his foes, slaying many warriors. He saw the Kaurava host running away and asked Duryodhana why they were fleeing. Duryodhana was unable to impart the bitter intelligence of Drona's death, and Kripa told Aswatthaman how his sire had been slain. Aswatthaman became filled with fierce wrath, blazing up in battle like a fire fed with fuel. His eyes became red as blood as he squeezed his hands and ground his teeth. The Kauravas were in disarray, their leader fallen and their troops fleeing. The Pandavas, on the other hand, were jubilant, their victory seeming within reach. Aswatthaman's rage was a desperate attempt to turn the tide of the battle, but it seemed too late. The Kauravas were defeated, and their army was in shambles. Aswatthaman's anger and grief were palpable, but they only seemed to fuel his determination to fight on, even in the face of defeat.
195 Dhritarashtra asked Sanjaya what Aswatthaman said when he learned his father, Drona, was slain by Dhrishtadyumna. Aswatthaman, a skilled warrior, was taught by his father and possessed various celestial weapons. He was equal to Karna in knowledge, Purandara in battle, and Vrihaspati in wisdom. Aswatthaman was a great hero, firm in battle, and never fatigued. He was like a mountain in fortitude, fire in energy, and an ocean in gravity. Hearing of his father's death, Aswatthaman was ordained to slay Dhrishtadyumna, just as Dhrishtadyumna was destined to kill Drona. Dhritarashtra wondered what Aswatthaman said when he heard the news, knowing that Dhrishtadyumna's actions were cruel and sinful. Aswatthaman's reaction was eagerly anticipated, given his skills and his father's legacy. His response would likely be intense and determined, driven by his desire for revenge and justice for his father's unrighteous slaying.
196 Sanjaya told Dhritarashtra that Drona's son, Aswatthaman, was filled with grief and rage upon learning of his father's death at Dhrishtadyumna's hands. Aswatthaman vowed to exterminate the Panchalas and slay Dhrishtadyumna, declaring that he would use the celestial Narayana weapon obtained from Lord Narayana himself. He boasted that no one, including Arjuna, could equal him in battle and that he would grind the Pandava troops. Aswatthaman invoked the Narayana weapon, touching water and preparing for battle. The Kuru army rallied, and the sound of conchs, drums, and dindimas filled the air, causing the earth and firmament to echo. The Pandavas, hearing the uproar, took counsel together, preparing for the impending battle. Aswatthaman's rage and determination were palpable, driven by his desire for revenge and justice for his father's unrighteous slaying. His boasts and vows were a testament to his skill and confidence as a warrior, and the stage was set for a fierce and epic battle.
197 Sanjaya described the terrifying scene as the Narayana weapon was invoked, with violent winds, rain, thunder, and earthquakes. The Pandavas, led by Yudhishthira, were concerned and asked Arjuna who was rallying the Kaurava army. Arjuna revealed that it was Aswatthaman, Drona's son, who was seeking revenge for his father's death. Arjuna lamented that the Pandavas had unrighteously slain Drona, who had laid aside his weapons, and that Aswatthaman's wrath would be difficult to face. He expressed shame and guilt for not intervening to save Drona and believed that death would be preferable to life after committing such a sin. The scene was set for a fierce battle, with Aswatthaman's roar echoing through the land, striking fear into the hearts of the Pandavas. The stage was set for a clash of epic proportions, with the fate of the war and the kingdom hanging in the balance.
198 Bhimasena and the Panchala king's son responded to Arjuna's words, expressing surprise and disappointment at his hesitation to fight. Bhimasena argued that as a Kshatriya, it was their duty to rescue others and themselves from harm, and that Arjuna's forgiveness towards their enemies was unbecoming. He reminded Arjuna of their past sufferings and the injustices they had endured, including the dragging of Draupadi to the assembly and their exile to the woods. Bhimasena declared that he would take on Drona's son alone if necessary, boasting of his own strength and prowess. The Panchala king's son defended his actions, stating that Drona had been slain in battle and that it was not unrighteous to kill one who had used superhuman weapons and illusions against them. He argued that Arjuna's reproach was unjustified and that he had done what was necessary as a Kshatriya. He pointed out the contradictions in Arjuna's words, noting that Arjuna had slain his own grandsire, Bhagadatta, in battle, yet considered it unrighteous for him to slay his own foe, Drona. Both Bhimasena and the Panchala king's son urged Arjuna to set aside his doubts and fight, assuring him of their support and victory. They emphasized that their actions were justified and that they had a duty to fulfill as Kshatriyas, and that Arjuna's hesitation would only lead to further suffering and defeat.
199 Dhritarashtra laments the death of Drona, a great warrior and a noble soul, and asks if no one felt called upon to display their wrath when Drona was insulted by Dhrishtadyumna, a prince of the Panchalas. Sanjaya replies that everyone present remained silent, except for Arjuna, who cast oblique glances at Dhrishtadyumna and seemed to reproach him. However, Satyaki, a warrior of the Vrishni race, spoke out, condemning Dhrishtadyumna's actions as sinful and unworthy. He said that Dhrishtadyumna deserved death for slaying his own preceptor, and that his actions were a stain on the Panchala race. Dhrishtadyumna retorted, forgiving Satyaki but also listing the unrighteous acts of the Kurus and Pandavas, including the exile of the Pandavas and the death of Bhishma. He argued that the Pandavas had also committed sinful acts, and that the death of Drona was a consequence of the war. He told Satyaki to fight the Kauravas without returning to his father's home, and to prove his valor in battle. Satyaki, enraged by Dhrishtadyumna's words, rushed at him with his mace, but Bhima intervened, seizing him with his arms. Sahadeva calmed Satyaki down, reminding him of the duties of friendship and the importance of forgiveness. However, the Panchala prince, undaunted, challenged Satyaki to battle, saying that either he would slay Satyaki or be slain himself. The two warriors were eventually pacified by Vasudeva and Yudhishthira, and the Pandava army proceeded against the Kauravas, ready for the final battle.
200 Sanjaya describes the carnage caused by Drona's son, Aswatthaman, who vowed to rout the Pandava army and slay the Panchala prince. The Pandavas and Panchalas fought valiantly, but Aswatthaman's weapon, the Narayana, proved devastating. King Yudhishthira, filled with fright, ordered his troops to flee, but Krishna advised them to lay down their weapons and alight from their vehicles, as the weapon would not harm them if they did not resist. Bhimasena, however, refused to back down and charged at Aswatthaman, determined to counter the Narayana weapon with his own strength. Arjuna declined to use his Gandiva against the weapon, citing his vow not to use it against the Narayana, kine, or Brahmanas. Bhimasena and Aswatthaman engaged in a fierce battle, with Bhimasena covering Aswatthaman with a shower of weapons. Aswatthaman retaliated, shrouding Bhimasena with arrows that vomited fire and resembled snakes of blazing mouths. The Pandava army panicked, throwing down their weapons and alighting from their vehicles, but Bhimasena continued to fight, determined to overcome the Narayana weapon.
201 Drona's son wreaks havoc on Pandava army, Bhimasena fights back with all his might. Aswatthaman, fueled by rage and vengeance, unleashes the devastating Narayana weapon, causing widespread destruction and chaos. The Pandava warriors, led by Yudhishthira, are caught off guard and struggle to counter the attack. Bhimasena, determined to save his brothers and comrades, charges forward with his mace, taking on Aswatthaman and his weapon. The two engage in a fierce duel, exchanging blows and showcasing their exceptional strength and skill. The sound of clashing weapons and the scent of smoke fill the air as the battle rages on. Bhimasena's mace crashes down on Aswatthaman's chariot, but the latter expertly dodges and counterattacks with a barrage of arrows. Bhimasena, undeterred, uses his mace to deflect the arrows and launches a fresh assault. Despite being outnumbered and outmatched, Bhimasena refuses to back down, using his immense power to hold off the Narayana weapon's destructive force. Meanwhile, Arjuna, bound by his vow not to use Gandiva against the Narayana, watches anxiously from the sidelines, unable to intervene. He knows that Bhimasena's valiant efforts may not be enough to counter the weapon's might. The outcome of the battle hangs in the balance, as Bhimasena's strength and determination are tested by Aswatthaman's unrelenting assault. The Pandava army's fate hangs precariously, as the two warriors clash in a struggle that will decide the course of the war.
202 Aswatthaman's Narayana weapon wreaks havoc on the Pandava army, spreading destruction and chaos in its wake. Bhimasena, undaunted by the devastating attack, charges forward with his mighty mace, determined to counter the assault and protect his brothers and comrades. The two warriors engage in a fierce duel, exchanging blows and showcasing their exceptional strength and skill. The sound of clashing weapons echoes through the battlefield as Bhimasena's mace crashes down on Aswatthaman's chariot, only to be met by a hail of arrows and celestial weapons. The Pandava army watches in awe as Bhimasena's determination and bravery are tested by the Narayana weapon's might. As the battle rages on, the outcome hangs precariously in the balance. Will Bhimasena's valiant efforts be enough to counter the weapon's destructive force, or will the Pandava army succumb to the devastating assault? The fate of the war and the future of Hastinapura hang in the balance, as the two warriors clash in a struggle that will decide the course of history.
203 Sanjaya said, "O king, after five days of fierce battle, the strong and virtuous Drona fell and ascended to the realm of Brahma. This Parva holds great significance, as it yields the same fruits as studying the Vedas. It recounts the valorous deeds of brave Kshatriyas. One who reads or listens to this Parva daily is absolved of grave sins and misdeeds. Brahmanas can gain the benefits of performing sacrifices, while Kshatriyas can achieve victory in battle. Vaisyas and Sudras can attain desirable offspring and fulfill their desires. This Parva is a treasure trove of spiritual and worldly blessings."