Shloka 5
उद्योगपर्व — अध्याय १४१: कर्ण–कृष्णसंवादः, उत्पात-स्वप्न-लक्षणानि
Karna–Krishna Dialogue: Omens and Dream-Signs
न सज्जते शैलवनस्पति भ्य ऊर्ध्व॑ तिर्यग्योजनमात्ररूप: । श्रीमान् ध्वज: कर्ण धनंजयस्य समुच्छित: पावकतुल्यरूप:,कर्ण! धनंजयका वह अग्निके समान तेजस्वी तथा कान्तिमान् ऊँचा ध्वज एक योजन लम्बा है। वह ऊपर अथवा अगल-बगलनमें पर्वतों तथा वृक्षोंसे कहीं अटकता नहीं है
sañjaya uvāca |
na sajjate śaila-vanaspatibhya ūrdhvaṃ tiryag yojana-mātra-rūpaḥ |
śrīmān dhvajaḥ karṇa-dhanañjayasya samucchritaḥ pāvaka-tulya-rūpaḥ ||
Karna, the splendid banner of Dhanañjaya (Arjuna) rises high, extending a full yojana, radiant like fire. It does not snag against mountains or great trees, whether above or to the sides.
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights how outward signs—like a hero’s banner—function as symbols of inner power, legitimacy, and morale in dharma-yuddha narratives. The fire-like radiance and unobstructed height suggest irresistible momentum and auspicious strength, shaping ethical and psychological readiness for war.
Sañjaya is reporting to Karṇa about the Pandava side’s martial display. He describes Arjuna’s towering, radiant banner—so high it does not catch on mountains or trees—emphasizing Arjuna’s formidable presence and the intimidating grandeur of his war insignia.