Shloka 87
द्रोणवध-प्रश्नः
Droṇa’s Fall: Dhṛtarāṣṭra’s Inquiry
हंसस्तु राजत: श्रीमान् ध्वजे घण्टापताकवान् । सहदेवस्य दुर्धर्षो द्विषतां शोकवर्धन:,सहदेवकी ध्वजामें घंटा और पताकाके साथ चाँदीके बने सुन्दर हंसका चिह्न था। वह दुर्धर्ष ध्वज शत्रुओंका शोक बढ़ानेवाला था
haṃsastu rājataḥ śrīmān dhvaje ghaṇṭāpatākavān | sahadevasya durdharṣo dviṣatāṃ śokavardhanaḥ ||
Sañjaya said: Upon Sahadeva’s banner was a splendid silver swan, adorned with a bell and streamers. That formidable standard was hard for enemies to face, and it increased the sorrow of those who opposed him—an emblem meant to hearten allies and unnerve foes amid the moral strain of war.
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights how outward symbols—standards, emblems, and martial insignia—serve ethical and psychological functions in war: they strengthen one’s side through confidence and identity while warning opponents of resolve and prowess. In the Mahābhārata’s moral landscape, such symbols underscore the gravity of kṣatriya-duty and the burdensome consequences (sorrow) that conflict brings.
Sañjaya is describing the battle array by detailing Sahadeva’s standard: a beautiful silver swan with bell and streamers. The description emphasizes that Sahadeva’s banner is formidable and intimidating, suggesting his readiness and the fear it inspires among enemies.