Shloka 2
भीष्मभीमसमागमः — Bhīṣma–Bhīma Strategic Engagement and Counsel to the King
अहं द्रोणश्न॒ शल्यश्न कृतवर्मा च सात्वत: । अश्रत्थामा विकर्णक्ष भगदत्तो5थ सौबल:
sañjaya uvāca | ahaṃ droṇaś ca śalyaś ca kṛtavarmā ca sātvatāḥ | aśvatthāmā vikarṇaś ca bhagadatto ’tha saubalaḥ ||
Sanjaya said: “O King, I myself, Droṇa, Śalya, and Kṛtavarmā of the Sātvata line; Aśvatthāmā, Vikarṇa, Bhagadatta, and then Saubala (Śakuni)—all stand ready for battle on your side.” The verse serves as a sober roll-call of commanders, underscoring how the war is framed as a contest of assembled power and loyalty rather than a clear triumph of righteousness.
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights how war is often justified through allegiance and the gathering of renowned fighters; ethically, it invites reflection on the difference between sheer martial strength and the moral legitimacy (dharma) of the cause being served.
Sañjaya reports to the blind king Dhṛtarāṣṭra, naming prominent warriors aligned with the Kauravas. This cataloging builds the battlefield picture and signals the scale of commitment and impending violence.