Shloka 16
अर्जुनस्योत्तरदिग्विजयः
Arjuna’s Northern Conquests and Tribute Collection
भीमार्जुना भ्यां योधाभ्यामास्थित: कृष्णसारथि: । शुशुभे रथवर्योडसौ दुर्जय: सर्वधन्विभि:
bhīmārjunābhyāṁ yodhābhyām āsthitaḥ kṛṣṇasārathiḥ | śuśubhe rathavaryo 'sau durjayaḥ sarvadhanvibhiḥ ||
Vaiśampāyana said: With Bhīma and Arjuna standing upon it as its warrior-guardians, that excellent chariot—driven by Kṛṣṇa—shone in splendor. Protected by such champions, it seemed unconquerable to all bowmen, proclaiming not only might but the moral confidence that arises when valor is yoked to disciplined leadership.
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights how strength becomes truly formidable when coordinated: the chariot’s invincibility is attributed to the combined presence of elite protectors (Bhīma and Arjuna) and steady guidance (Kṛṣṇa as charioteer). Ethically, it suggests that power gains legitimacy and effectiveness when aligned with disciplined leadership and righteous purpose.
The narrator describes a particular chariot in the assembly-era events: Bhīma and Arjuna are positioned as its warrior defenders, while Kṛṣṇa serves as its charioteer. The chariot is portrayed as radiant and practically unconquerable in the eyes of all archers, emphasizing the formidable alliance and readiness for conflict.