Chapter 12: Arjuna’s suppression of the Saṃśaptakas and duel with Aśvatthāmā
Drauṇi
चचार मण्डलान्येव गतप्रत्यागतानि च । सैकड़ों तारक-चिह्लोंसे भरी हुई सात्यकिकी ढाल काटकर विन्द गत और प्रत्यागत आदि पैंतरे बदलने लगा
cācāra maṇḍalānyeva gatapratyāgatāni ca |
सञ्जय उवाच—स मण्डलान्येव चचार गतप्रत्यागतानि च। सात्यकेश्च तारकचिह्नबहुलां ढालां छित्त्वा विन्दो युद्धे गतप्रत्यागतादीनि पैंतरे व्यदर्शयत्।
संजय उवाच
The verse highlights disciplined martial conduct—controlled movement, measured advance and retreat—suggesting that even in violent conflict, skill and restraint shape a warrior’s action within the demands of kṣatriya-dharma.
Sañjaya describes a fighter executing circular maneuvers and alternating advance-and-withdrawal movements, indicating tactical footwork and readiness in the ongoing battle.