Adhyāya 113: Karṇa–Bhīma Śaravarṣa and the Battlefield Aftermath (कर्णभीमशरवर्षः)
उदीच्या दाक्षिणात्याशक्षु ये चान्येडपि महारथा: । ये च कर्णमुखा राजन् रथोदारा: प्रकीर्तिता:
udīcyā dākṣiṇātyāś ca ye cānye 'pi mahārathāḥ | ye ca karṇamukhā rājan rathodārāḥ prakīrtitāḥ ||
Sañjaya said: “O King, the great chariot-warriors from the northern and southern regions—and others besides—those foremost among whom is Karṇa, all renowned as noble and eminent masters of the chariot, have been duly spoken of.”
संजय उवाच
The verse underscores the kṣatriya-world’s emphasis on recognized excellence and responsibility in war: warriors are remembered and assessed by reputation, leadership, and proven capability (mahāratha, rathodāra), reminding that public renown in dharma-based roles carries ethical weight.
Sañjaya continues reporting to King Dhṛtarāṣṭra, summarizing that the notable great chariot-warriors from various regions—especially those led by Karṇa—have been enumerated and characterized as eminent fighters.