Adhyāya 8: Saṃprahāra-varṇana and Bhīma–Kṣemadhūrti Dvipa-Yuddha
Combat Description and Elephant Duel
योडजित: पार्थिवै: शूरै: समर्थवीर्यशालिभि:
yoḍajitaḥ pārthivaiḥ śūraiḥ samarthavīryaśālibhiḥ
वैशम्पायन बोले—वह समर्थ बल और सिद्ध पराक्रम से युक्त वीर राजाओं द्वारा भी रण में जीता नहीं जा सकता था।
वैशम्पायन उवाच
The verse highlights the ideal of martial excellence in kṣatriya-dharma: true heroism is measured by steadfast, effective valor that withstands even the combined challenge of many capable rulers.
Vaiśampāyana characterizes a central warrior as undefeated in combat, emphasizing that even brave kings endowed with strength could not overcome him—setting the tone for the intensity of the battle episode.