Shloka 16
Chapter 89: Bhīma dispatched to protect Ghaṭotkaca amid escalating engagements
ततस्ते पार्थिवा: सर्वे श्र॒ुत्वा पार्थस्य भाषितम् । महता रथवंशेन परिवद्रु: पितामहम्,तब कुन्तीपुत्र युधिष्ठिका यह कथन सुनकर समस्त राजाओंने विशाल रथसमूहके द्वारा पितामह भीष्मको चारों ओरसे घेर लिया
tatas te pārthivāḥ sarve śrutvā pārthasya bhāṣitam | mahatā rathavaṃśena parivadruḥ pitāmaham ||
Sanjaya said: Then all those kings, having heard the words spoken by Pārtha, surrounded the Grandsire Bhishma on every side with a vast array of chariots.
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights how decisive speech and resolve in a dharmic conflict immediately translate into collective action; it also underscores the tension between reverence for an elder (Bhīṣma) and the necessity of opposing him when he stands on the rival side.
After hearing Pārtha’s words, the assembled kings move tactically: they mass their chariots and encircle Bhīṣma, indicating an organized attempt to contain or engage the Kuru commander-in-chief.