Shloka 27
Dhṛtarāṣṭra–Sañjaya-saṃvādaḥ; madhyāhna-saṅgrāma-pravṛttiḥ
Dhritarashtra–Sanjaya dialogue and the midday battle escalation
स बभौ रथशार्दूलो ललाटे संस्थितैस्त्रिभि: । शिखरै: काञउ्चनमयैर्मेरुस्त्रिभिरिवोच्छितै:,रथियोंमें श्रेष्ठ अश्वत्थामा ललाटमें लगे हुए उन तीनों बाणोंके द्वारा तीन ऊँचे सुवर्णमय शिखरोंसे युक्त मेरुपर्वतके समान शोभा पाने लगा
sa babhau rathaśārdūlo lalāṭe saṃsthitais tribhiḥ | śikharaiḥ kāñcanamayair merus tribhir ivocchritaiḥ ||
Sañjaya said: That tiger among chariot-warriors shone forth with three arrows fixed upon his forehead, appearing like Mount Meru crowned with three lofty peaks of gold. The image underscores how, amid the harshness of battle, even wounds become marks of conspicuous valor and steadfast endurance.
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights the kṣatriya ideal of steadfastness: in righteous warfare, a warrior’s composure under injury and continued resolve are treated as marks of honor. The poetic comparison suggests that dignity and courage can transform even painful wounds into symbols of renown.
Sañjaya describes Aśvatthāmā on the battlefield with three arrows lodged in his forehead. Rather than diminishing him, this makes him appear striking—likened to Mount Meru with three tall golden peaks—emphasizing his formidable presence amid combat.