Shloka 3
किंप्रमाणा हयास्तस्य रथकेतुर्धनुस्तथा । कीदृशं वर्म चैवास्य शिरस्त्राणं च कीदृशम्
kiṃpramāṇā hayās tasya rathaketur dhanus tathā | kīdṛśaṃ varma caivāsya śirastrāṇaṃ ca kīdṛśam ||
Dhṛtarāṣṭra asked: “Of what size and measure are his horses? And what are his chariot-banner and his bow like? What kind of armour does he wear, and what sort of head-protection (helmet) does he have?”
धृतराष्ट उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights a common epic motif: in war, leaders assess not only moral resolve but also practical means—mounts, weapons, and protective gear. It reflects how anxiety and strategic concern drive inquiry, reminding readers that power in battle is judged through visible signs of preparedness.
Dhṛtarāṣṭra questions the details of a warrior’s battle equipment—horses, chariot standard, bow, armour, and helmet—seeking a concrete description to gauge that fighter’s strength and readiness in the unfolding conflict.