Shloka 15
Droṇa-parva Adhyāya 107: Karṇa–Bhīma Saṃmarda
Arrow-storm Engagement
गोवृषो गौतमस्यासीत् कृपस्य सुपरिष्कृत: । स तेन भ्राजते राजन् गोवृषेण महारथ:
govṛṣo gautamasyāsīt kṛpasya supariṣkṛtaḥ | sa tena bhrājate rājan govṛṣeṇa mahārathaḥ ||
Sañjaya said: “O King, the splendidly adorned bull-banner that once belonged to Gautama is now in Kṛpa’s possession. With that bull-emblem the great chariot-warrior shines forth—his standard proclaiming his lineage and martial dignity amid the turmoil of battle.”
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights how martial identity and reputation are conveyed through inherited or renowned emblems: a warrior’s standard is not mere decoration but a public sign of lineage, honor, and the role one assumes in war.
Sañjaya describes Kṛpa on the battlefield, noting that he bears a splendid bull-emblem standard associated with Gautama; this emblem makes the great warrior appear especially radiant and distinguished.