Shloka 25
Droṇa-parva Adhyāya 107: Karṇa–Bhīma Saṃmarda
Arrow-storm Engagement
केतु: काञ्चनचित्रा ड्रैर्मयूरिरुपशोभित: । स केतु: शो भयामास सैन्यं ते भरतर्षभ,महाराज! शलके ध्वजमें चाँदीका महान् गजराज बना हुआ था। भरतश्रेष्ठ! वह ध्वज सुवर्णनिर्मित विचित्र अंगोंवाले मयूरोंसे सुशोभित था और आपकी सेनाकी शोभा बढ़ा रहा था
sañjaya uvāca | ketuḥ kāñcanacitraḥ draiḥ mayūraiḥ upaśobhitaḥ | sa ketuḥ śobhayāmāsa sainyaṃ te bharatarṣabha mahārāja ||
केतुः काञ्चनचित्रो द्रैर्मयूरैरुपशोभितः । स केतुः शोभयामास सैन्यं ते भरतर्षभ महाराज ॥
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights how outward symbols—like a royal standard—function as markers of authority, cohesion, and morale in war. Ethically, it reminds readers that power often presents itself through dazzling emblems, yet such splendor is ultimately subordinate to right conduct (dharma) that determines true honor.
Sañjaya is describing the battlefield scene to the king: a richly ornamented banner, golden and decorated with peacock motifs, is visible and adds to the impressive appearance of the king’s army.