Shloka 186
त्रिगर्त-मात्स्य-संग्रामः
The Trigarta–Matsya Engagement at Twilight
महानुभावो मत्स्यस्य ध्वज उच्छिश्रिये तदा । मत्स्यराजके सुवर्णमय दिव्य रथमें, जो सूर्य और चन्द्रमाके समान प्रकाशित हो रहा था, उस समय बहुत ऊँची ध्वजा फहराने लगी
mahānubhāvo matsyasya dhvaja ucchiśriye tadā |
Sinabi ni Vaiśampāyana: Noon, ang mataas at maringal na watawat ng hari ng Matsya ay umangat at nagsimulang pumagaspas. Sa banal na karwaheng ginto ng pinunong Matsya—na kumikislap na wari’y araw at buwan—nakatindig ang sagisag nang marangal, hudyat ng pasyang maharlika at ng kapangyarihang magtanggol na hayag sa nagbubukas na tunggalian.
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights how royal symbols—especially the dhvaja on a chariot—publicly embody kṣatriya responsibility: to protect the realm, rally allies, and declare readiness to face danger. Ethical force here lies in rightful authority being made visible and accountable through recognized emblems.
In Vaiśampāyana’s narration, the Matsya king’s chariot is described as radiant and divine, and its banner is raised high and waves prominently—an image of mobilization and heightened martial preparedness within the Virāṭa episode.