Shloka 49
Adhyāya 18 — Sequential Duels and Formation Pressure
Ulūka–Yuyutsu; Śakuni–Sutasoma; Kṛpa–Dhṛṣṭadyumna; Kṛtavarmā–Śikhaṇḍin
चन्द्रनक्षत्रभासै श्व वदनैश्वारुकुण्डलै:
candra-nakṣatra-bhāsaiḥ śva-vadanaiś cāru-kuṇḍalaiḥ
Sinabi ni Sañjaya: “(Ang tanawin ay napuno) ng mga nilalang na kumikislap na parang buwan at mga bituin, may mga mukhang-aso, at may magagandang hikaw—isang masamang pangitain, di-makamundong palabas na nagpapatingkad sa dilim ng asal at sa pangambang bumabalot sa pag-usad ng digmaan.”
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse contributes to the Mahābhārata’s ethical atmosphere by portraying ominous, uncanny signs around the battlefield—suggesting that when adharma dominates, nature and perception themselves appear distorted, warning of grave consequences.
Sañjaya is describing a terrifying, supernatural-looking scene associated with the war: radiant appearances like moon and stars alongside dog-faced forms adorned with earrings—imagery typical of portents that heighten tension and foreshadow calamity.