Shloka 14
भीमसेन-दुर्योधन-प्रहारः तथा घटोत्कचमायाप्रादुर्भावः | Bhīmasena–Duryodhana Clash and the Manifestation of Ghaṭotkaca’s Māyā
रेजुस्तत्र पताकाश्न श्वेतच्छत्राणि वा विभो । अंगदान्यत्र चित्राणि महाहाणि धनूंषि च
rejustratra patākāś ca śvetacchatrāṇi vā vibho | aṅgadāny atra citrāṇi mahārhāṇi dhanūṃṣi ca ||
Sañjaya said: “O mighty one, there the banners and the white parasols shone brilliantly. In that host, splendid armlets of varied workmanship—costly and precious—along with bows, were seen resplendent.” The verse heightens the moral tension of the war by emphasizing royal insignia and wealth on display, suggesting how worldly splendor accompanies—and can mask—the grave ethical stakes of battle.
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse underscores how the outward grandeur of kingship—banners, parasols, precious ornaments—can accompany violent conflict; it invites reflection on the contrast between worldly display and the serious dharmic consequences of war.
Sañjaya is describing the battlefield host, noting the shining flags and white royal parasols, and the ornate, valuable armlets and bows that adorn the warriors, emphasizing the scale and splendor of the assembled army.