Shloka 19
Bhīmasena–Drauṇi Mahāyuddha
Chariot Duel and Astra-Exchange
अनुपादे तु यो वामस्तत्र शल्यो व्यवस्थित: । महत्या सेनया सार्ध मद्रदेशसमुत्थया,बायें पैरके पिछले भागमें मद्रदेशकी विशाल सेनाके साथ स्वयं राजा शल्य उपस्थित थे
anupāde tu yo vāmas tatra śalyo vyavasthitaḥ | mahatyā senayā sārdhaṃ madradeśa-samutthayā ||
Sañjaya said: On the left flank, in the rear position, King Śalya stood stationed, accompanied by a great host that had arisen from the land of Madra—an arrangement that underscores how each side deliberately placed trusted rulers and regional forces to secure vulnerable points in the battle formation.
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights disciplined military order and the ethical responsibility of rulers to protect strategic weak points: trusted kings and their regional troops are placed where steadiness and accountability are required, reflecting kṣatriya duty in organized warfare.
Sañjaya describes the deployment within the battle array: on the left side, toward the rear, King Śalya is stationed with a large contingent from Madra, indicating a deliberate placement of forces to secure that sector.