Shloka 98
Daiva–Puruṣakāra Discourse and the Elephant-Corps Engagement (भीमगजानीक-सम्भ्रान्ति)
सच पारावताश्वस्य रथे हेमपरिष्कृते । कोविदारध्वजं दृष्टवा भीमसेन: समाश्वसत्
sa ca pārāvatāśvasya rathe hemapariṣkṛte | kovidāradhvajaṃ dṛṣṭvā bhīmasenaḥ samāśvasat ||
संजय बोले—कबूतर के समान रंग वाले घोड़ों से युक्त, सुवर्णभूषित धृष्टद्युम्न के रथ पर कचनार-वृक्ष-चिह्न वाली ध्वजा फहराती देख भीमसेन को बड़ा आश्वासन मिला।
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
In a crisis like war, confidence is strengthened by reliable companions and clear signs of preparedness. The verse highlights how symbols of allied strength and leadership can steady one’s mind, helping a warrior remain firm in dharma—performing one’s duty without wavering.
Sañjaya describes Bhīma noticing Dhr̥ṣṭadyumna’s richly decorated chariot, drawn by dove-coloured horses, with a banner bearing the kovidāra (kacanāra) emblem. Seeing this, Bhīma feels reassured and encouraged on the battlefield.