Shloka 773
Adhyāya 141 — Night duels: Śaineya and Bhūriśravas; Droṇi and Ghaṭotkaca; Bhīma and Duryodhana
यदियेष रथात् कर्ण हर्तु ताक्ष्य इवोरगम् । जैसे गरुड़ सर्पको दबोच लेते हैं, उसी प्रकार भीमसेनने कर्णको उसके रथसे पकड़ ले जानेकी जो इच्छा की थी, उनके इस कर्मकी समस्त कौरवों तथा चारणोंने भी प्रशंसा की
yadiyeṣa rathāt karṇa hartuṃ tākṣya ivoragam |
Sañjaya said: Bhīmasena sought to seize Karṇa and carry him off from his chariot, just as Tākṣya (Garuḍa) snatches up a serpent. This daring intent and deed drew the admiration of all the Kauravas and the bards, highlighting how, in the heat of war, even enemies may praise conspicuous valor and martial prowess when it is displayed without hesitation.
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse underscores a martial ethic in which extraordinary courage and capability can command respect even from opponents; public praise (by Kauravas and bards) reflects how valor is recognized as a kṣatriya virtue amid the moral complexity of war.
Sañjaya reports that Bhīma attempted or intended to seize Karṇa directly from his chariot, compared to Garuḍa snatching a snake; this bold act was acclaimed by the Kaurava side and by the Cāraṇas who celebrate heroic feats.