Shloka 18
Śārṅgaka-stuti to Agni during the Khāṇḍava Conflagration (शार्ङ्गक-स्तुतिः / अग्नि-स्तुतिः)
अश्वांश्व दिव्यानिच्छेयं पाण्डुरान् वातरंहस: । रथं च मेघनिर्घोष॑ सूर्यप्रतिमतेजसम्
arjuna uvāca |
aśvānś ca divyān iccheyaṃ pāṇḍurān vātaraṃhasaḥ |
rathaṃ ca meghanirghoṣaṃ sūryapratimatejasam ||
मैं वायु के समान वेगवान् श्वेत वर्ण के दिव्य अश्व, तथा मेघ के समान गम्भीर घोष करने वाला और सूर्य के समान तेजस्वी रथ चाहता हूँ।
अजुन उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights the kṣatriya ideal of responsible preparedness: when facing grave threats, a warrior should seek proper resources and protection so that action in battle aligns with duty (dharma) rather than impulsive bravado.
Arjuna speaks, expressing a desire for celestial-grade horses and a formidable, radiant chariot—equipment symbolizing speed, power, and auspicious strength—appropriate for the dangerous undertaking ahead.