Shloka 49
Adhyāya 18 — Sequential Duels and Formation Pressure
Ulūka–Yuyutsu; Śakuni–Sutasoma; Kṛpa–Dhṛṣṭadyumna; Kṛtavarmā–Śikhaṇḍin
चन्द्रनक्षत्रभासै श्व वदनैश्वारुकुण्डलै:
candra-nakṣatra-bhāsaiḥ śva-vadanaiś cāru-kuṇḍalaiḥ
Sañjaya said: “(The scene was filled) with beings shining like the moon and stars, with dog-faced forms, and with beautiful earrings—an ominous, otherworldly spectacle that underscores the moral darkness and dread surrounding the war’s unfolding.”
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse contributes to the Mahābhārata’s ethical atmosphere by portraying ominous, uncanny signs around the battlefield—suggesting that when adharma dominates, nature and perception themselves appear distorted, warning of grave consequences.
Sañjaya is describing a terrifying, supernatural-looking scene associated with the war: radiant appearances like moon and stars alongside dog-faced forms adorned with earrings—imagery typical of portents that heighten tension and foreshadow calamity.