Mahabharata — Shalya Parva, Shloka 26
Chapter 23: Śakuni Reports, Kaurava Advance, and Arjuna’s Penetration of the Host
ततो गान्धारराजस्य पुत्र: शकुनिरब्रवीत् । युद्धयध्वमग्रतो यावत् पृष्ठतो हन्मि पाण्डवान्
tato gāndhārarājasya putraḥ śakunir abravīt | yudhyadhvam agrato yāvat pṛṣṭhato hanmi pāṇḍavān ||
桑阇耶说：于是，犍陀罗王之子沙昆尼开口道：“你们尽力从正面交战；我将从背后击杀般度族。”
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights the ethical fault-line in warfare: pursuing victory through a rear attack and manipulation contrasts with the ideal of straightforward kshatriya combat. It underscores how adharma can manifest as tactical counsel that prioritizes success over honor.
Sanjaya reports that Shakuni addresses the Kaurava fighters, urging them to engage the Pandavas from the front while he proposes to attack from behind, indicating a coordinated plan relying on encirclement or treacherous assault.