Shloka 18
Droṇasya raudra-prayogaḥ
Droṇa’s intensified assault and the Pāṇḍava response
तस्य दीप्तो महाकाय: स्वान्यनीकानि हर्षयन्
tasya dīpto mahākāyaḥ svāny anīkāni harṣayan
Sañjaya said: Blazing with martial splendor, that mighty-bodied warrior cheered on his own battle-formations—kindling their courage and resolve amid the press of war.
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights a key wartime ethic: a leader’s personal steadiness and visible vigor can uplift the morale of his own ranks. In the Mahābhārata’s battlefield context, inspiring one’s troops is presented as part of kṣatriya leadership—channeling fear into disciplined courage.
Sañjaya describes a prominent warrior (referred to simply as 'he') appearing radiant and formidable, and actively heartening his own military divisions. The focus is on the immediate effect of his presence—his troops are encouraged and energized for the ongoing combat.