Shloka 246
Adhyāya 107 — बहुयुद्धप्रकरणम्
Multiple Defensive Engagements to Protect Bhīṣma
अपायाज्जवनैरश्वै: पूर्ववैरमनुस्मरन् । इस प्रकार युद्धके मुहानेपर द्रोणाचार्यसे पीड़ित हो राजा ट्रुपद पूर्व वैरका स्मरण करते हुए शीघ्रगामी घोड़ोंद्वारा वहाँसे भाग गये
apāyāj javanair aśvaiḥ pūrvavairam anusmaran |
Sañjaya said: “Remembering his former enmity, King Drupada—harassed by Droṇācārya at the very brink of battle—fled from that place with swift horses. The verse underscores how unresolved hostility and past grievances can drive fearful retreat even in a moment that demands steadfastness in war and duty.”
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights the ethical danger of clinging to past enmity: remembrance of old hostility (pūrvavaira) can cloud judgment and weaken resolve, leading to fear-driven action at critical moments.
On the battlefield, Drupada is pressed hard by Droṇa. Recalling their earlier feud, he retreats from the front and escapes quickly using swift horses.