Shloka 20
Chapter 19: Prativyūha of the Pāṇḍavas — Vajra (Acala) Formation and Dawn Omens
विराटश्न ततः पश्चाद् राजाथाक्षौहिणीवृतः । भ्रातृभि: सह पुत्रैश्न सो5भ्यरक्षत पृष्ठत:,तत्पश्चात् राजा विराट अपने भाइयों और पुत्रोंक साथ एक अक्षौहिणी सेना लेकर भीमसेनके पृष्ठभागकी रक्षा कर रहे थे
virāṭaś ca tataḥ paścād rājātha akṣauhiṇī-vṛtaḥ | bhrātṛbhiḥ saha putraiś ca so 'bhyarakṣat pṛṣṭhataḥ ||
Sañjaya said: Thereafter King Virāṭa, surrounded by an akṣauhiṇī of troops, together with his brothers and sons, protected the rear of Bhīmasena. The verse highlights the battlefield ethic of coordinated protection—strength at the front is sustained by loyal guardianship from behind, reflecting disciplined duty and solidarity among allies.
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse underscores dharma in warfare as disciplined cooperation: even a mighty warrior’s advance depends on steadfast protection of the rear by allies, expressing loyalty, responsibility, and strategic prudence.
Sañjaya reports that King Virāṭa, supported by his brothers, sons, and a full akṣauhiṇī force, takes position behind Bhīmasena to guard his back while Bhīma engages the enemy.