Shloka 35
Droṇa-parva Adhyāya 94: Sātyaki–Sudarśana Yuddha (सात्यकि–सुदर्शन युद्ध)
त॑ दृष्टवा तु तथा यान्तं शूरो राजा श्रुतायुध:
taṁ dṛṣṭvā tu tathā yāntaṁ śūro rājā śrutāyudhaḥ
Sañjaya said: Seeing him advancing in that manner, the valiant king Śrutāyudha took note—his resolve hardening as the battle’s momentum pressed forward. The line underscores how, in war, a leader’s perception of an opponent’s movement can immediately shape intent and action, often tightening the grip of duty and vengeance over restraint.
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights how a warrior-king’s ethical and strategic stance in battle is triggered by perception: seeing an opponent advance can crystallize resolve. It reflects the Mahābhārata’s recurring tension between duty (kṣatriya-dharma) and the escalating compulsions of war.
Sañjaya narrates that King Śrutāyudha observes someone advancing in a particular manner. This observation serves as a narrative pivot, preparing for Śrutāyudha’s ensuing reaction or engagement in the ongoing battle scene.