Shloka 54
कर्णपर्व — अध्याय ५९
Arjuna Breaks the Encirclement; Bhīma Reinforces
निकृत्यैतद्रथानीकं बलिनं लोकविश्रुतम्
nikṛtyaitad rathānīkaṃ balinaṃ lokaviśrutam
निकृत्यैतद्रथानीकं बलिनं लोकविश्रुतम् । ततः संग्रामवेगेन युद्धं प्रववृते पुनः ॥
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse underscores the Mahābhārata’s recurring ethical tension: worldly fame and military strength (lokaviśruta, balin) are still vulnerable to the ruthless reversals of war. Renown does not guarantee protection; power is transient when driven into adharma-fueled destruction.
Sañjaya reports that a notable, powerful chariot-formation—famous for its strength—has been brought down in the ongoing battle. The line functions as a brief battlefield update, marking a turning point where an important unit is shattered.