Shloka 12
भीष्मधृतराष्ट्रसंवादः — पाण्डवबलप्रशंसा
Bhishma–Dhritarashtra Dialogue: Appraisal of Pandava Strength
पिता त्वस्य महातेजा वृद्धो5पि युवभिर्वर: । रणे कर्म महत् कर्ता अत्र मे नास्ति संशय:
pitā tv asya mahātejā vṛddho 'pi yuvabhir varaḥ | raṇe karma mahat kartā atra me nāsti saṁśayaḥ ||
Bhīṣma said: “His father, the mighty Drona, though advanced in years, is superior even to the young. In this war he will accomplish great deeds; of this I have no doubt.” In context, Bhīṣma affirms confidence in an elder’s proven dharma of duty and mastery in arms, emphasizing that age does not diminish righteous resolve and competence when one is committed to one’s appointed role in battle.
भीष्म उवाच
Educational Q&A
Bhīṣma underscores that true capability and dharmic commitment are not negated by age: an accomplished elder, grounded in discipline and duty, can surpass the young and still perform great deeds when the situation demands.
In the Udyoga Parva’s war-preparation context, Bhīṣma speaks about Aśvatthāmā’s father, Droṇa, praising his might and assuring the Kaurava side that Droṇa will display formidable prowess in the coming battle.