Shloka 61
Droṇa–Arjuna Yuddha; Trigarta-Āvaraṇa; Bhīmasena Gajānīka-bheda
Droṇa and Arjuna Engage; Trigarta Containment; Bhīma Breaks the Elephant Corps
तमापतन्तं सहसा दृष्ट्वा प्राग्ज्योतिषो नृपः । चिक्षेप रुचिरं तीक्ष्णमर्धचन्द्रं सुदारुणम्
tam āpatantaṁ sahasā dṛṣṭvā prāgjyotiṣo nṛpaḥ | cikṣepa ruciraṁ tīkṣṇam ardhacandraṁ sudāruṇam ||
三阇耶说道：见那兵刃骤然扑至，普罗阇约提沙之王立刻掷出一支半月形利箭，华美、锋锐，而又极其可怖。
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
Within the kṣatriya framework of the Mahābhārata, the verse underscores vigilance and prompt, proportionate response to immediate threat—decisive action taken in the face of danger as part of one’s battlefield duty.
A weapon is seen rushing toward Bhagadatta, the king of Prāgjyotiṣa. Reacting instantly, he shoots/throws a fierce, sharp, crescent-headed arrow (ardhacandra) to counter it.