Shloka 16
सूर्य–कर्णोपदेशः
Sūrya’s Counsel to Karṇa on Kīrti and the Kuṇḍala
मुखमासीत् तु सैन्यस्य हनूमान् मारुतात्मज: । जघनं पालयामास सौमित्रिरकुतोभय:,उस सेनाके मुहानेपर वायुपुत्र हनुमानजी विद्यमान थे। किसीसे भी भय न माननेवाले सुमित्रानन्दन लक्ष्मण उसके पृष्ठभागकी रक्षा कर रहे थे
mukham āsīt tu sainyasya hanūmān mārutātmajaḥ | jaghanaṃ pālayāmāsa saumitrir akutobhayaḥ ||
Mārkaṇḍeya said: At the very front of the army stood Hanūmān, the son of the Wind-god, embodying fearless strength and steadfast resolve. Guarding the rear was Saumitrī (Lakṣmaṇa), unshaken by any fear, ensuring that the host remained protected on all sides—an image of disciplined leadership and loyal service in the midst of peril.
मार्कण्डेय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights dharmic conduct in conflict: true strength is paired with responsibility. Hanūmān’s presence at the front signifies courageous initiative, while Lakṣmaṇa’s guarding of the rear signifies vigilant protection and loyal service—together modeling disciplined leadership and collective security.
Mārkaṇḍeya describes the army’s formation: Hanūmān, Vāyu’s son, stands at the vanguard, and the fearless Lakṣmaṇa (Saumitrī) safeguards the rear, ensuring the force is protected from both frontal assault and attacks from behind.