हत्वा विंशतिसाहस्रान् पञज्चालानां रथव्रजान् । अतिष्ठदाहवे द्रोणो विधूमो5ग्निरिव ज्वलन्,उस समय पांचालोंके बीस हजार रथियोंका संहार करके द्रोणाचार्य युद्धस्थलमें धूमरहित प्रज्वलित अग्निके समान खड़े थे
hatvā viṁśatisāhasrān pañcālānāṁ rathavrajān | atiṣṭhad āhave droṇo vidhūmo 'gnir iva jvalan ||
Sañjaya berkata: Setelah menewaskan dua puluh ribu kesatria-kereta dari Pāñcāla, Droṇa berdiri teguh di medan laga, menyala bagaikan api tanpa asap.
संजय उवाच
The verse highlights the paradox of dharma in war: extraordinary prowess and steadfastness can coexist with immense destruction. The simile of a smokeless fire suggests a concentrated, consuming force—inviting reflection on how duty-driven action may still carry grave ethical consequences.
Sañjaya reports that Droṇa has slaughtered a vast number of Pāñcāla chariot-warriors and remains standing unshaken in the fight, described as blazing like a smokeless fire—emphasizing his dominance and the intensity of the battle.