Shloka 47
Droṇa–Arjuna Yuddha; Trigarta-Āvaraṇa; Bhīmasena Gajānīka-bheda
Droṇa and Arjuna Engage; Trigarta Containment; Bhīma Breaks the Elephant Corps
वर्म मुख्यं तनुत्राणं शातकुम्भपरिष्कृतम्
varma mukhyaṃ tanutrāṇaṃ śātakumbhapariṣkṛtam
Sañjaya said: “(He wore) a foremost coat of mail—a protective cuirass—adorned and refined with śātakumbha-gold.” The line underscores deliberate readiness for battle: guarding the body while displaying royal splendor, as warfare in the Mahābhārata joins practical defense with kṣatriya duty and public honor.
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights kṣatriya readiness: safeguarding the body with proper protection while upholding public honor. It suggests that entering battle is not reckless bravado but disciplined preparation aligned with one’s duty.
Sañjaya is describing a warrior’s battle equipment—specifically a principal suit of armor, finely embellished with gold—indicating the formal arming and readiness for the coming combat.