Shloka 54
कर्णपर्व — अध्याय ५९
Arjuna Breaks the Encirclement; Bhīma Reinforces
निकृत्यैतद्रथानीकं बलिनं लोकविश्रुतम्
nikṛtyaitad rathānīkaṃ balinaṃ lokaviśrutam
संजय बोले—इस लोकविश्रुत, बलवान रथानीक को इस प्रकार ध्वस्त करके युद्ध फिर उसी भीषण वेग से आगे बढ़ चला।
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse underscores the Mahābhārata’s recurring ethical tension: worldly fame and military strength (lokaviśruta, balin) are still vulnerable to the ruthless reversals of war. Renown does not guarantee protection; power is transient when driven into adharma-fueled destruction.
Sañjaya reports that a notable, powerful chariot-formation—famous for its strength—has been brought down in the ongoing battle. The line functions as a brief battlefield update, marking a turning point where an important unit is shattered.