Adhyāya 18 — Sequential Duels and Formation Pressure
Ulūka–Yuyutsu; Śakuni–Sutasoma; Kṛpa–Dhṛṣṭadyumna; Kṛtavarmā–Śikhaṇḍin
छत्राणि चापविद्धानि चामरव्यजनानि च । “राजाओंकी चूड़ामणियाँ, विचित्र स्वर्णमालाएँ, छत्र, चँवर और व्यजन फेंके पड़े हैं
chatrāṇi cāpaviddhāni cāmaravyajanāni ca |
Sinabi ni Sañjaya: “Nakalugmok at itinapon ang mga payong, gayundin ang mga pamaypay na buntot-yak at iba pang pamaypay—mga sagisag ng pagkahari na iniwan sa larangan. Ipinahahayag ng tanawing ito ang pagbagsak ng karangyaan ng mga hari sa harap ng walang kinikilingang dahas ng digmaan, kung saan ang pagmamataas at katayuan ay nauuwi sa mga bagay na itinatapon.”
संजय उवाच
The verse underscores the impermanence of worldly power: royal emblems like umbrellas and ceremonial fans, once signs of sovereignty, become meaningless when dharma is tested in war. It cautions against pride in external status and highlights how conflict strips away illusion and display.
Sañjaya describes the battlefield aftermath or ongoing devastation, noting that royal insignia—umbrellas, yak-tail whisks, and fans—are lying discarded. The imagery conveys disorder, defeat, or the sudden reversal of fortune among kings and warriors.