Mahabharata — Drona Parva, Shloka 96
Droṇa-parva Adhyāya 107: Karṇa–Bhīma Saṃmarda
Arrow-storm Engagement
त्रासयामास तत् सैन्यं ध्वजो गाण्डीवधन्चन: । राजन! श्रेष्ठ वानरसे सुशोभित तथा पताकाओंसे अलंकृत गाण्डीवधारी अर्जुनका वह ध्वज आपकी उस सेनाको भयभीत किये देता था
trāsayāmāsa tat sainyaṁ dhvajo gāṇḍīvadhanvanaḥ | rājan śreṣṭha-vānarena suśobhitaḥ tathā patākābhiḥ alaṅkṛtaḥ gāṇḍīvadhārī arjunasya sa dhvajaḥ tava senāṁ bhayabhītām akarot ||
三阇耶说道：大王啊，持甘狄婆弓的阿周那之旗，饰以最上等的猿猴徽记，又缀以飘带旌幡，使那支军队心生恐惧。在这场战争的道德氛围中，这并非徒然炫示：军旗成为决心与武威的可见标志，动摇对手之心，并在战场上加深“职责”与“毁灭”之间的伦理张力。
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights how symbols of righteous resolve and proven prowess (a hero’s banner and emblem) can influence morale. In dharma-based warfare, inner steadiness and reputation become forces that shape outcomes, reminding listeners that fear and courage arise not only from weapons but from perceived legitimacy, discipline, and purpose.
Sañjaya reports to King Dhṛtarāṣṭra that Arjuna’s banner—decorated with the foremost monkey emblem and streamers—was so imposing that it frightened the opposing troops. The scene emphasizes the psychological impact of Arjuna’s presence as the wielder of the Gāṇḍīva.