Shloka 44
Somadatta–Sātyaki Engagement; Bhīma’s Interventions; Droṇa–Yudhiṣṭhira Astra Exchange
Book 7, Chapter 132
पज्चालानां ततो मुख्यौ राजपुत्रौ महारथौ । रथावन्यौ समारुह् बीभत्सुमभिजग्मतु:,तत्पश्चात् पांचाल-सेनाके वे दोनों प्रधान महारथी राजकुमार युधामन्यु और उत्तमौजा दूसरे दो रथोंपर आरूढ़ होकर अर्जुनके समीप चले गये
Pañcālānāṃ tato mukhyau rājaputrau mahārathau | rathāv anyau samāruhya bībhatsum abhijagmatuḥ ||
Then, among the Pañcālas, the two foremost princes—both great chariot-warriors—mounted two other chariots and advanced toward Bībhatsu (Arjuna). In the ethical frame of the battle, this signals the Pañcāla leaders’ deliberate choice to stand close by Arjuna as protectors and allies, reinforcing loyalty to their side’s cause and the duty of comradeship amid the peril of war.
द्रोण उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights the dharma of comradeship and alliance in a righteous cause: capable leaders do not remain passive but take deliberate action to support and protect a principal warrior, embodying loyalty and responsibility amid the moral pressures of war.
Drona reports that the two leading Pañcāla princes—Yudhāmanyu and Uttamaujā—mount separate chariots and move toward Arjuna (Bībhatsu), indicating their positioning near him as active allies/protectors in the ongoing battle.