Srimad Bhagavatam — Shashtha Skandha, Shloka 16
Vṛtrāsura Instructs Indra on Providence and Devotion; The Slaying of Vṛtrāsura
पश्य मां निर्जितं शत्रु वृक्णायुधभुजं मृधे । घटमानं यथाशक्ति तव प्राणजिहीर्षया ॥ १६ ॥
paśya māṁ nirjitaṁ śatru vṛkṇāyudha-bhujaṁ mṛdhe ghaṭamānaṁ yathā-śakti tava prāṇa-jihīrṣayā
O my enemy, just look at me. I have already been defeated, for my weapon and arm have been cut to pieces. You have already overwhelmed me, but nonetheless, with a desire to kill you, I am trying my best to fight. I am not at all morose, even under such adverse conditions. Therefore you should give up your moroseness and continue fighting.
Vṛtrāsura was so great and powerful that in effect he was acting as the spiritual master of Indra. Although Vṛtrāsura was on the verge of defeat, he was not at all affected. He knew that he was going to be defeated by Indra, and he voluntarily accepted that, but since he was supposed to be Indra’s enemy, he tried his best to kill Indra. Thus he performed his duty. One should perform his duty under all circumstances, even though one may know what the result will be.
FAQs
Vṛtrāsura tells Indra to look at him—though defeated and with his weapon-arm cut off, he still exerts himself to fight, determined to take Indra’s life.
In the midst of their fierce battle, Vṛtrāsura speaks as a fearless kṣatriya-like warrior, declaring his resolve even after suffering a severe injury, intensifying the dramatic confrontation with Indra.
Even when setbacks reduce our capacity, we can continue our duty with whatever strength remains—steady effort and resolve are praised, especially when facing adversity.