06.055
Pancharatra and Core: In the afternoon, under the leadership of Bhishma, the Kaurava army rallies back, and the Pandava army is in disarray. Seeing Arjuna fighting mildly, Krishna picks up a discus. Later, Arjuna fights valiantly, and the Pandavas gain the upper hand. Third day comes to an end.
धृतराष्ट्र उवाच॥
Dhritarashtra spoke:
प्रतिज्ञाते तु भीष्मेण तस्मिन्युद्धे सुदारुणे। क्रोधितो मम पुत्रेण दुःखितेन विशेषतः ॥६-५५-१॥
In the very terrible battle that was promised by Bhishma, my son, who was particularly distressed, became very angry.
भीष्मः किमकरोत्तत्र पाण्डवेयेषु सञ्जय। पितामहे वा पाञ्चालास्तन्ममाचक्ष्व सञ्जय ॥६-५५-२॥
Sanjaya, tell me what Bhishma did there among the Pandavas, or what the Panchalas did to the grandsire.
सञ्जय उवाच॥
Sanjaya said:
गतपूर्वाह्णभूयिष्ठे तस्मिन्नहनि भारत। जयं प्राप्तेषु हृष्टेषु पाण्डवेषु महात्मसु ॥६-५५-३॥
On that day, as the morning passed, the Pandavas, the great souls, rejoiced in their victory, O Bharata.
सर्वधर्मविशेषज्ञः पिता देवव्रतस्तव। अभ्ययाज्जवनैरश्वैः पाण्डवानामनीकिनीम् ॥ महत्या सेनया गुप्तस्तव पुत्रैश्च सर्वशः ॥६-५५-४॥
Your father, Devavrata, who knows all dharmas, approached the Pandava army with swift horses, fully protected by your sons and a great army.
प्रावर्तत ततो युद्धं तुमुलं लोमहर्षणम्। अस्माकं पाण्डवैः सार्धमनयात्तव भारत ॥६-५५-५॥
Then the tumultuous and terrifying battle commenced between our forces and the Pandavas, O Bharata.
धनुषां कूजतां तत्र तलानां चाभिहन्यताम्। महान्समभवच्छब्दो गिरीणामिव दीर्यताम् ॥६-५५-६॥
A great sound arose there, like the splitting of mountains, from the twanging of bows and the striking of shields.
तिष्ठ स्थितोऽस्मि विद्ध्येनं निवर्तस्व स्थिरो भव। स्थितोऽस्मि प्रहरस्वेति शब्दाः श्रूयन्त सर्वशः ॥६-५५-७॥
The commands 'Stand firm, I am here, know this, turn back, be steady. I am here, attack!' are heard everywhere.
काञ्चनेषु तनुत्रेषु किरीटेषु ध्वजेषु च। शिलानामिव शैलेषु पतितानामभूत्स्वनः ॥६-५५-८॥
The sound echoed through the golden armours, crowns, and flags, resembling the noise of stones tumbling down the mountains.
पतितान्युत्तमाङ्गानि बाहवश्च विभूषिताः। व्यचेष्टन्त महीं प्राप्य शतशोऽथ सहस्रशः ॥६-५५-९॥
The fallen heads and adorned arms lay scattered on the ground, moving slightly as they came to rest, numbering in the hundreds and thousands.
हृतोत्तमाङ्गाः केचित्तु तथैवोद्यतकार्मुकाः। प्रगृहीतायुधाश्चापि तस्थुः पुरुषसत्तमाः ॥६-५५-१०॥
Some warriors, even with their heads cut off, stood with their bows raised and weapons in hand, O best of men.
प्रावर्तत महावेगा नदी रुधिरवाहिनी। मातङ्गाङ्गशिलारौद्रा मांसशोणितकर्दमा ॥६-५५-११॥
A river of great speed began to flow, carrying blood, terrifying with elephant bodies and stones, and muddy with flesh and blood.
वराश्वनरनागानां शरीरप्रभवा तदा। परलोकार्णवमुखी गृध्रगोमायुमोदिनी ॥६-५५-१२॥
At that time, the bodies of noble horses, men, and elephants emerged, leading towards the ocean of the afterlife, delighting vultures and jackals.
न दृष्टं न श्रुतं चापि युद्धमेतादृशं नृप। यथा तव सुतानां च पाण्डवानां च भारत ॥६-५५-१३॥
O King, such a war has neither been seen nor heard of, as is happening between your sons and the Pandavas, O Bharata.
नासीद्रथपथस्तत्र योधैर्युधि निपातितैः। गजैश्च पतितैर्नीलैर्गिरिशृङ्गैरिवावृतम् ॥६-५५-१४॥
The path for chariots was obstructed, as it was covered by warriors who had fallen in battle and by elephants that lay like dark mountain peaks.
विकीर्णैः कवचैश्चित्रैर्ध्वजैश्छत्रैश्च मारिष। शुशुभे तद्रणस्थानं शरदीव नभस्तलम् ॥६-५५-१५॥
The battlefield, adorned with scattered armors, colorful flags, and umbrellas, appeared as splendid as the autumn sky, O dear.
विनिर्भिन्नाः शरैः केचिदन्तपीडाविकर्षिणः। अभीताः समरे शत्रूनभ्यधावन्त दंशिताः ॥६-५५-१६॥
Some, pierced by arrows and dragging their pain, fearlessly ran towards the enemies in battle, as if bitten by a frenzy.
तात भ्रातः सखे बन्धो वयस्य मम मातुल। मा मां परित्यजेत्यन्ये चुक्रुशुः पतिता रणे ॥६-५५-१७॥
In the battlefield, others cried out to their fathers, brothers, friends, kinsmen, companions, and uncles, pleading not to be abandoned as they fell.
आधावाभ्येहि मा गच्छ किं भीतोऽसि क्व यास्यसि। स्थितोऽहं समरे मा भैरिति चान्ये विचुक्रुशुः ॥६-५५-१८॥
"Run and come here, do not go! Why are you afraid? Where will you go? I am standing here in the battle, do not fear," others cried out.
तत्र भीष्मः शान्तनवो नित्यं मण्डलकार्मुकः। मुमोच बाणान्दीप्ताग्रानहीनाशीविषानिव ॥६-५५-१९॥
There, Bhishma, the son of Shantanu, always wielding his circular bow, released arrows with blazing tips, resembling venomous snakes.
शरैरेकायनीकुर्वन्दिशः सर्वा यतव्रतः। जघान पाण्डवरथानादिश्यादिश्य भारत ॥६-५५-२०॥
The warrior, having taken a vow, used his arrows to dominate all directions, systematically destroying the Pandava chariots, O descendant of Bharata.
स नृत्यन्वै रथोपस्थे दर्शयन्पाणिलाघवम्। अलातचक्रवद्राजंस्तत्र तत्र स्म दृश्यते ॥६-५५-२१॥
The king was seen dancing on the chariot seat, displaying his dexterity of hand like a spinning firebrand wheel, moving swiftly here and there.
तमेकं समरे शूरं पाण्डवाः सृञ्जयास्तथा। अनेकशतसाहस्रं समपश्यन्त लाघवात् ॥६-५५-२२॥
The Pandavas and the Srinjayas quickly noticed that one heroic warrior in the battle among many hundreds and thousands.
मायाकृतात्मानमिव भीष्मं तत्र स्म मेनिरे। पूर्वस्यां दिशि तं दृष्ट्वा प्रतीच्यां ददृशुर्जनाः ॥६-५५-२३॥
The people perceived Bhishma as if he was an illusion. When they saw him in the east, they also saw him in the west.
उदीच्यां चैनमालोक्य दक्षिणस्यां पुनः प्रभो। एवं स समरे वीरो गाङ्गेयः प्रत्यदृश्यत ॥६-५५-२४॥
In the northern direction, having seen him again in the southern direction, O lord, thus the hero, son of Ganga, appeared in the battle.
न चैनं पाण्डवेयानां कश्चिच्छक्नोति वीक्षितुम्। विशिखानेव पश्यन्ति भीष्मचापच्युतान्बहून् ॥६-५५-२५॥
None among the Pandavas can see him; they only see the numerous arrows released from Bhishma's bow.
कुर्वाणं समरे कर्म सूदयानं च वाहिनीम्। व्याक्रोशन्त रणे तत्र वीरा बहुविधं बहु ॥ अमानुषेण रूपेण चरन्तं पितरं तव ॥६-५५-२६॥
In the battle, performing actions and destroying the army, the heroes shouted variously. Your father, in a non-human form, was moving there.
शलभा इव राजानः पतन्ति विधिचोदिताः। भीष्माग्निमभि सङ्क्रुद्धं विनाशाय सहस्रशः ॥६-५५-२७॥
Kings, like moths drawn to a flame, are driven by fate to fall in thousands towards the wrathful fire of Bhishma, leading to their destruction.
न हि मोघः शरः कश्चिदासीद्भीष्मस्य संयुगे। नरनागाश्वकायेषु बहुत्वाल्लघुवेधिनः ॥६-५५-२८॥
In the battle, none of Bhishma's arrows were wasted; they easily pierced through the bodies of men, elephants, and horses due to their sheer number.
भिनत्त्येकेन बाणेन सुमुक्तेन पतत्रिणा। गजकङ्कटसंनाहं वज्रेणेवाचलोत्तमम् ॥६-५५-२९॥
With a single, well-aimed arrow released by the bird, it pierces the elephant's armor as if it were the best mountain struck by a thunderbolt.
द्वौ त्रीनपि गजारोहान्पिण्डितान्वर्मितानपि। नाराचेन सुतीक्ष्णेन निजघान पिता तव ॥६-५५-३०॥
Your father killed two or even three elephant riders, who were grouped together and armored, using a very sharp iron arrow.
यो यो भीष्मं नरव्याघ्रमभ्येति युधि कश्चन। मुहूर्तदृष्टः स मया पातितो भुवि दृश्यते ॥६-५५-३१॥
Anyone who approaches Bhishma, the tiger among men, in battle, is seen by me to be felled to the ground in an instant.
एवं सा धर्मराजस्य वध्यमाना महाचमूः। भीष्मेणातुलवीर्येण व्यशीर्यत सहस्रधा ॥६-५५-३२॥
The great army of Dharmaraja was utterly destroyed by the unmatched valor of Bhishma, breaking into a thousand fragments.
प्रकीर्यत महासेना शरवर्षाभितापिता। पश्यतो वासुदेवस्य पार्थस्य च महात्मनः ॥६-५५-३३॥
The great army was scattered under a shower of arrows as Vāsudeva and the noble Pārtha looked on.
यतमानापि ते वीरा द्रवमाणान्महारथान्। नाशक्नुवन्वारयितुं भीष्मबाणप्रपीडिताः ॥६-५५-३४॥
Despite their efforts, the heroes could not halt the retreat of the great charioteers, who were overwhelmed by Bhishma's arrows.
महेन्द्रसमवीर्येण वध्यमाना महाचमूः। अभज्यत महाराज न च द्वौ सह धावतः ॥६-५५-३५॥
O great king, the mighty army was shattered by the one whose strength is equal to that of Mahendra, and no two soldiers were seen fleeing together.
आविद्धनरनागाश्वं पतितध्वजकूबरम्। अनीकं पाण्डुपुत्राणां हाहाभूतमचेतनम् ॥६-५५-३६॥
The army of the Pandavas was in disarray, with men, elephants, and horses struck down, flags and standards fallen, and it became a scene of chaos and unconsciousness.
जघानात्र पिता पुत्रं पुत्रश्च पितरं तथा। प्रियं सखायं चाक्रन्दे सखा दैवबलात्कृतः ॥६-५५-३७॥
In this situation, a father killed his son, and the son, in turn, killed his father. A dear friend lamented to another friend, both being overpowered by fate.
विमुच्य कवचानन्ये पाण्डुपुत्रस्य सैनिकाः। प्रकीर्य केशान्धावन्तः प्रत्यदृश्यन्त भारत ॥६-५५-३८॥
The soldiers of the Pandavas, having thrown away their armors and with disheveled hair, were seen fleeing, O Bharata.
तद्गोकुलमिवोद्भ्रान्तमुद्भ्रान्तरथयूथपम्। ददृशे पाण्डुपुत्रस्य सैन्यमार्तस्वरं तदा ॥६-५५-३९॥
At that time, the army of the son of Pandu appeared like a disturbed cowherd village with its chariot leaders in disarray, making a distressed sound.
प्रभज्यमानं तत्सैन्यं दृष्ट्वा देवकिनन्दनः। उवाच पार्थं बीभत्सुं निगृह्य रथमुत्तमम् ॥६-५५-४०॥
Seeing the army being scattered, Krishna, the son of Devaki, addressed Arjuna, the fearless one, while holding the reins of the excellent chariot.
अयं स कालः सम्प्राप्तः पार्थ यः काङ्क्षितस्त्वया। प्रहरास्मै नरव्याघ्र न चेन्मोहाद्विमुह्यसे ॥६-५५-४१॥
The awaited moment has come, O Arjuna, which you have longed for. Strike now, O great warrior, unless you are bewildered by delusion.
यत्त्वया कथितं वीर पुरा राज्ञां समागमे। भीष्मद्रोणमुखान्सर्वान्धार्तराष्ट्रस्य सैनिकान् ॥६-५५-४२॥
O hero, what you had spoken earlier in the assembly of kings about all the warriors of Dhritarashtra's sons, led by Bhishma and Drona.
सानुबन्धान्हनिष्यामि ये मां योत्स्यन्ति संयुगे। इति तत्कुरु कौन्तेय सत्यं वाक्यमरिंदम ॥६-५५-४३॥
I will destroy all those who dare to fight against me in battle, along with their followers. Therefore, O son of Kunti, fulfill this true promise, O conqueror of enemies.
बीभत्सो पश्य सैन्यं स्वं भज्यमानं समन्ततः। द्रवतश्च महीपालान्सर्वान्यौधिष्ठिरे बले ॥६-५५-४४॥
O Bibhatsu, observe how your own forces are being shattered on all sides, and how all the kings are fleeing within Yudhishthira's army.
दृष्ट्वा हि समरे भीष्मं व्यात्ताननमिवान्तकम्। भयार्ताः सम्प्रणश्यन्ति सिंहं क्षुद्रमृगा इव ॥६-५५-४५॥
Seeing Bhishma in the battle with his mouth wide open like death itself, the fearful ones flee like small animals from a lion.
एवमुक्तः प्रत्युवाच वासुदेवं धनञ्जयः। चोदयाश्वान्यतो भीष्मो विगाह्यैतद्बलार्णवम् ॥६-५५-४६॥
Upon being spoken to in this manner, Dhananjaya replied to Vasudeva, "Drive the horses to where Bhishma has entered this ocean of strength."
ततोऽश्वान्रजतप्रख्यांश्चोदयामास माधवः। यतो भीष्मरथो राजन्दुष्प्रेक्ष्यो रश्मिमानिव ॥६-५५-४७॥
Then Madhava urged the silver-like horses towards the place where Bhishma's chariot was, which was difficult to behold, O King, as it shone like the sun.
ततस्तत्पुनरावृत्तं युधिष्ठिरबलं महत्। दृष्ट्वा पार्थं महाबाहुं भीष्मायोद्यन्तमाहवे ॥६-५५-४८॥
Then, seeing the great army of Yudhishthira return once more, and Arjuna, the mighty-armed, readying himself for battle against Bhishma.
ततो भीष्मः कुरुश्रेष्ठः सिंहवद्विनदन्मुहुः। धनञ्जयरथं तूर्णं शरवर्षैरवाकिरत् ॥६-५५-४९॥
Then Bhishma, the esteemed elder of the Kuru dynasty, let out a roar akin to a lion's and quickly enveloped Arjuna's chariot with a barrage of arrows.
क्षणेन स रथस्तस्य सहयः सहसारथिः। शरवर्षेण महता सञ्छन्नो न प्रकाशते ॥६-५५-५०॥
In an instant, his chariot, along with the horses and charioteer, was completely obscured by a heavy barrage of arrows, making it invisible.
वासुदेवस्त्वसम्भ्रान्तो धैर्यमास्थाय सत्त्ववान्। चोदयामास तानश्वान्वितुन्नान्भीष्मसायकैः ॥६-५५-५१॥
Vasudeva, maintaining his composure and courage, urged the horses forward despite them being pierced by Bhishma's arrows.
ततः पार्थो धनुर्गृह्य दिव्यं जलदनिस्वनम्। पातयामास भीष्मस्य धनुश्छित्त्वा त्रिभिः शरैः ॥६-५५-५२॥
Then Arjuna, with his divine bow that roared like thunder, struck down Bhishma's bow by cutting it with three arrows.
स च्छिन्नधन्वा कौरव्यः पुनरन्यन्महद्धनुः। निमेषान्तरमात्रेण सज्यं चक्रे पिता तव ॥६-५५-५३॥
Your father, the descendant of Kuru, even with his bow broken, quickly strung another great bow in just a moment.
विचकर्ष ततो दोर्भ्यां धनुर्जलदनिस्वनम्। अथास्य तदपि क्रुद्धश्चिच्छेद धनुरर्जुनः ॥६-५५-५४॥
Then he drew the bow with his arms, making a sound like thunder. Arjuna, in his anger, then cut off that bow.
तस्य तत्पूजयामास लाघवं शन्तनोः सुतः। साधु पार्थ महाबाहो साधु भो पाण्डुनन्दन ॥६-५५-५५॥
The son of Śantanu honored that lightness. Well done, Arjuna, mighty-armed, well done, O son of Pandu.
त्वय्येवैतद्युक्तरूपं महत्कर्म धनञ्जय। प्रीतोऽस्मि सुदृढं पुत्र कुरु युद्धं मया सह ॥६-५५-५६॥
O Dhananjaya, this great action is indeed appropriate in you. I am pleased, my son, engage firmly in battle with me.
इति पार्थं प्रशस्याथ प्रगृह्यान्यन्महद्धनुः। मुमोच समरे वीरः शरान्पार्थरथं प्रति ॥६-५५-५७॥
After praising Arjuna, the hero took up another great bow and released arrows towards Arjuna's chariot in the battle.
अदर्शयद्वासुदेवो हययाने परं बलम्। मोघान्कुर्वञ्शरांस्तस्य मण्डलान्यचरल्लघु ॥६-५५-५८॥
Vasudeva demonstrated his supreme power on the chariot, rendering the opponent's arrows ineffective, and swiftly maneuvered in circles.
तथापि भीष्मः सुदृढं वासुदेवधनञ्जयौ। विव्याध निशितैर्बाणैः सर्वगात्रेषु मारिष ॥६-५५-५९॥
Despite the circumstances, Bhishma resolutely attacked Vasudeva and Arjuna with his sharp arrows, striking them all over their bodies, dear sir.
शुशुभाते नरव्याघ्रौ तौ भीष्मशरविक्षतौ। गोवृषाविव नर्दन्तौ विषाणोल्लिखिताङ्कितौ ॥६-५५-६०॥
The two warriors, resembling tigers among men, wounded by Bhishma's arrows, appeared majestic like two roaring bulls marked by their horns.
पुनश्चापि सुसङ्क्रुद्धः शरैः संनतपर्वभिः। कृष्णयोर्युधि संरब्धो भीष्मो व्यावारयद्दिशः ॥६-५५-६१॥
Once again, in great anger, Bhishma, with his arrows having bent joints, fiercely engaged in battle, blocked the paths of the two Krishnas.
वार्ष्णेयं च शरैस्तीक्ष्णैः कम्पयामास रोषितः। मुहुरभ्युत्स्मयन्भीष्मः प्रहस्य स्वनवत्तदा ॥६-५५-६२॥
The son of Vṛṣṇi, in his anger, shook with sharp arrows. Bhishma, repeatedly smiling, laughed aloud at that time.
ततः कृष्णस्तु समरे दृष्ट्वा भीष्मपराक्रमम्। सम्प्रेक्ष्य च महाबाहुः पार्थस्य मृदुयुद्धताम् ॥६-५५-६३॥
Then Krishna, witnessing Bhishma's valor in the battle and noticing Arjuna's gentle approach to fighting, reacted accordingly.
भीष्मं च शरवर्षाणि सृजन्तमनिशं युधि। प्रतपन्तमिवादित्यं मध्यमासाद्य सेनयोः ॥६-५५-६४॥
Bhishma, standing in the midst of the armies, was continuously releasing showers of arrows in battle, shining brilliantly like the sun.
वरान्वरान्विनिघ्नन्तं पाण्डुपुत्रस्य सैनिकान्। युगान्तमिव कुर्वाणं भीष्मं यौधिष्ठिरे बले ॥६-५५-६५॥
Bhishma, in the battle of Yudhishthira's army, was slaying the best warriors of the Pandavas, as if bringing about the end of an era.
अमृष्यमाणो भगवान्केशवः परवीरहा। अचिन्तयदमेयात्मा नास्ति यौधिष्ठिरं बलम् ॥६-५५-६६॥
Keshava, the blessed one and destroyer of enemy heroes, found it unendurable and thought that Yudhishthira had no strength.
एकाह्ना हि रणे भीष्मो नाशयेद्देवदानवान्। किमु पाण्डुसुतान्युद्धे सबलान्सपदानुगान् ॥६-५५-६७॥
In just one day, Bhishma could annihilate the gods and demons in battle; so what chance do the sons of Pandu have in battle with their forces and followers?
द्रवते च महत्सैन्यं पाण्डवस्य महात्मनः। एते च कौरवास्तूर्णं प्रभग्नान्दृश्य सोमकान् ॥ आद्रवन्ति रणे हृष्टा हर्षयन्तः पितामहम् ॥६-५५-६८॥
The great army of the noble Pandava advances. The Kauravas, witnessing the disarrayed Somakas, swiftly charge into the battle, filled with joy, encouraging their grandfather.
सोऽहं भीष्मं निहन्म्यद्य पाण्डवार्थाय दंशितः। भारमेतं विनेष्यामि पाण्डवानां महात्मनाम् ॥६-५५-६९॥
I am determined to slay Bhishma today for the sake of the Pandavas. I will relieve the Pandavas, the great souls, of this burden.
अर्जुनोऽपि शरैस्तीक्ष्णैर्वध्यमानो हि संयुगे। कर्तव्यं नाभिजानाति रणे भीष्मस्य गौरवात् ॥६-५५-७०॥
Arjuna, despite being struck by sharp arrows in the battle, does not realize his duty due to his respect for Bhishma.
तथा चिन्तयतस्तस्य भूय एव पितामहः। प्रेषयामास सङ्क्रुद्धः शरान्पार्थरथं प्रति ॥६-५५-७१॥
While he was contemplating, his grandfather, in anger, sent arrows towards Arjuna's chariot.
तेषां बहुत्वाद्धि भृशं शराणां; दिशोऽथ सर्वाः पिहिता बभूवुः। न चान्तरिक्षं न दिशो न भूमि; र्न भास्करोऽदृश्यत रश्मिमाली ॥ ववुश्च वातास्तुमुलाः सधूमा; दिशश्च सर्वाः क्षुभिता बभूवुः ॥६-५५-७२॥
The multitude of arrows obscured all directions, making the sky, earth, and even the sun invisible. The winds blew fiercely, filled with smoke, causing turmoil in every direction.
द्रोणो विकर्णोऽथ जयद्रथश्च; भूरिश्रवाः कृतवर्मा कृपश्च। श्रुतायुरम्बष्ठपतिश्च राजा; विन्दानुविन्दौ च सुदक्षिणश्च ॥६-५५-७३॥
Drona, Vikarna, Jayadratha, Bhurishrava, Kritavarma, Kripa, Shrutayu, the king of the Ambashthas, Vind, Anuvind, and Sudakshina were present.
प्राच्याश्च सौवीरगणाश्च सर्वे; वसातयः क्षुद्रकमालवाश्च। किरीटिनं त्वरमाणाभिसस्रु; र्निदेशगाः शान्तनवस्य राज्ञः ॥६-५५-७४॥
The easterners, the Sauvira tribes, the Vasatis, and the Kshudrakas and Malavas all hastened to the crowned one, obeying the command of King Santanu's son.
तं वाजिपादातरथौघजालै; रनेकसाहस्रशतैर्ददर्श। किरीटिनं सम्परिवार्यमाणं; शिनेर्नप्ता वारणयूथपैश्च ॥६-५५-७५॥
He saw the crowned one, surrounded by the grandson of Śini and elephant troops, with nets of horse-hoofed chariots and many thousands and hundreds.
ततस्तु दृष्ट्वार्जुनवासुदेवौ; पदातिनागाश्वरथैः समन्तात्। अभिद्रुतौ शस्त्रभृतां वरिष्ठौ; शिनिप्रवीरोऽभिससार तूर्णम् ॥६-५५-७६॥
Upon seeing Arjuna and Vasudeva, the hero of the Shini clan swiftly moved towards the foremost warriors, surrounded by infantry, elephants, horses, and chariots.
स तान्यनीकानि महाधनुष्मा; ञ्शिनिप्रवीरः सहसाभिपत्य। चकार साहाय्यमथार्जुनस्य; विष्णुर्यथा वृत्रनिषूदनस्य ॥६-५५-७७॥
He, the great archer and hero of the Śini clan, suddenly attacked those armies and aided Arjuna, just as Viṣṇu aided the slayer of Vṛtra.
विशीर्णनागाश्वरथध्वजौघं; भीष्मेण वित्रासितसर्वयोधम्। युधिष्ठिरानीकमभिद्रवन्तं; प्रोवाच संदृश्य शिनिप्रवीरः ॥६-५५-७८॥
Observing the chaos caused by Bhishma, with elephants, horses, chariots, and flags scattered and all warriors frightened, the hero from the Shini lineage addressed Yudhishthira's advancing army.
क्व क्षत्रिया यास्यथ नैष धर्मः; सतां पुरस्तात्कथितः पुराणैः। मा स्वां प्रतिज्ञां जहत प्रवीराः; स्वं वीरधर्मं परिपालयध्वम् ॥६-५५-७९॥
"Where will you go, O warriors? This is not the duty as spoken by the virtuous in ancient times. Do not abandon your promise, O heroes; uphold your own heroic duty."
तान्वासवानन्तरजो निशम्य; नरेन्द्रमुख्यान्द्रवतः समन्तात्। पार्थस्य दृष्ट्वा मृदुयुद्धतां च; भीष्मं च सङ्ख्ये समुदीर्यमाणम् ॥६-५५-८०॥
Upon hearing this, the son of Ananta, Indra, observed the chief kings fleeing from all directions, and noticed Partha's gentle approach to battle, as well as Bhishma being extolled in the battlefield.
अमृष्यमाणः स ततो महात्मा; यशस्विनं सर्वदशार्हभर्ता। उवाच शैनेयमभिप्रशंस; न्दृष्ट्वा कुरूनापततः समन्तात् ॥६-५५-८१॥
Unable to endure, the great soul, the glorious lord of all Daśārhas, praised Śaineya upon seeing the Kurus attacking from all directions.
ये यान्ति यान्त्वेव शिनिप्रवीर; येऽपि स्थिताः सात्वत तेऽपि यान्तु। भीष्मं रथात्पश्य निपात्यमानं; द्रोणं च सङ्ख्ये सगणं मयाद्य ॥६-५५-८२॥
Let those who are departing continue on their way, O hero of the Shini dynasty; and those who remain, O descendant of Sātvata, let them also proceed. Behold Bhishma being struck down from his chariot, and Drona with his followers in the battle today by my hand.
नासौ रथः सात्वत कौरवाणां; क्रुद्धस्य मुच्येत रणेऽद्य कश्चित्। तस्मादहं गृह्य रथाङ्गमुग्रं; प्राणं हरिष्यामि महाव्रतस्य ॥६-५५-८३॥
No chariot of the Sātvatas or the Kauravas will escape today from the wrathful one in battle. Therefore, I will seize the fierce wheel of the chariot and take the life of the one with great vows.
निहत्य भीष्मं सगणं तथाजौ; द्रोणं च शैनेय रथप्रवीरम्। प्रीतिं करिष्यामि धनञ्जयस्य; राज्ञश्च भीमस्य तथाश्विनोश्च ॥६-५५-८४॥
After slaying Bhishma and his followers in battle, along with Drona and the valiant charioteer, the son of Shini, I shall fulfill the desires of Arjuna, the king, Bhima, and the Ashvins.
निहत्य सर्वान्धृतराष्ट्रपुत्रां; स्तत्पक्षिणो ये च नरेन्द्रमुख्याः। राज्येन राजानमजातशत्रुं; सम्पादयिष्याम्यहमद्य हृष्टः ॥६-५५-८५॥
Today, joyful, I will establish King Ajatashatru with the kingdom after having slain all of Dhritarashtra's sons and their allies, who are the chief among kings.
ततः सुनाभं वसुदेवपुत्रः; सूर्यप्रभं वज्रसमप्रभावम्। क्षुरान्तमुद्यम्य भुजेन चक्रं; रथादवप्लुत्य विसृज्य वाहान् ॥६-५५-८६॥
Then, the son of Vasudeva, possessing a beautiful navel and radiance like the sun and brilliance like a thunderbolt, raised his razor-edged discus with his arm, jumped down from the chariot, and released the horses.
सङ्कम्पयन्गां चरणैर्महात्मा; वेगेन कृष्णः प्रससार भीष्मम्। मदान्धमाजौ समुदीर्णदर्पः; सिंहो जिघांसन्निव वारणेन्द्रम् ॥६-५५-८७॥
Krishna, the great soul, shook the earth with his feet as he rushed towards Bhishma with great speed, intoxicated and full of pride in battle, like a lion eager to kill the lord of elephants.
सोऽभ्यद्रवद्भीष्ममनीकमध्ये; क्रुद्धो महेन्द्रावरजः प्रमाथी। व्यालम्बिपीतान्तपटश्चकाशे; घनो यथा खेऽचिरभापिनद्धः ॥६-५५-८८॥
He, the angry younger brother of Indra and destroyer, attacked in the midst of Bhishma's army. He appeared like a cloud in the sky, recently enveloped in light, with a hanging yellow-edged cloth.
सुदर्शनं चास्य रराज शौरे; स्तच्चक्रपद्मं सुभुजोरुनालम्। यथादिपद्मं तरुणार्कवर्णं; रराज नारायणनाभिजातम् ॥६-५५-८९॥
The beautiful discus of Krishna shone brilliantly; it was like a lotus with its beautiful arms and thighs as stalks, resembling the original lotus, sun-colored, and born from the navel of Nārāyaṇa.
तत्कृष्णकोपोदयसूर्यबुद्धं; क्षुरान्ततीक्ष्णाग्रसुजातपत्रम्। तस्यैव देहोरुसरःप्ररूढं; रराज नारायणबाहुनालम् ॥६-५५-९०॥
The anger of Krishna, rising like the sun, was as enlightening as a sharp, well-crafted leaf. His body, vast like a great lake, shone brilliantly like the stem of Narayana's arm.
तमात्तचक्रं प्रणदन्तमुच्चैः; क्रुद्धं महेन्द्रावरजं समीक्ष्य। सर्वाणि भूतानि भृशं विनेदुः; क्षयं कुरूणामिति चिन्तयित्वा ॥६-५५-९१॥
Observing the angry younger brother of Indra, who was holding the discus and roaring loudly, all creatures lamented intensely, contemplating the impending destruction of the Kuru dynasty.
स वासुदेवः प्रगृहीतचक्रः; संवर्तयिष्यन्निव जीवलोकम्। अभ्युत्पतँल्लोकगुरुर्बभासे; भूतानि धक्ष्यन्निव कालवह्निः ॥६-५५-९२॥
Vasudeva, with his discus in hand, seemed poised to annihilate the world of living beings. As the world's teacher rose, he shone brilliantly, appearing ready to consume all beings like the fire of time.
तमापतन्तं प्रगृहीतचक्रं; समीक्ष्य देवं द्विपदां वरिष्ठम्। असम्भ्रमात्कार्मुकबाणपाणी; रथे स्थितः शान्तनवोऽभ्युवाच ॥६-५५-९३॥
Seeing the god approaching with the discus in hand, the son of Śāntanu, standing confidently on his chariot with bow and arrow, addressed him without any confusion.
एह्येहि देवेश जगन्निवास; नमोऽस्तु ते शार्ङ्गरथाङ्गपाणे। प्रसह्य मां पातय लोकनाथ; रथोत्तमाद्भूतशरण्य सङ्ख्ये ॥६-५५-९४॥
"Come, come, O Lord of the gods, who is the abode of the universe; salutations to you, O wielder of the bow and chariot. O Lord of the world, forcibly make me fall from the excellent chariot, O shelter of beings, in battle."
त्वया हतस्येह ममाद्य कृष्ण; श्रेयः परस्मिन्निह चैव लोके। सम्भावितोऽस्म्यन्धकवृष्णिनाथ; लोकैस्त्रिभिर्वीर तवाभियानात् ॥६-५५-९५॥
O Krishna, by your actions today, I have gained glory in this world and the next. O Lord of the Andhakas and Vṛṣṇis, I am honored by the three worlds due to your heroic expedition.
रथादवप्लुत्य ततस्त्वरावा; न्पार्थोऽप्यनुद्रुत्य यदुप्रवीरम्। जग्राह पीनोत्तमलम्बबाहुं; बाह्वोर्हरिं व्यायतपीनबाहुः ॥६-५५-९६॥
Arjuna quickly jumped down from the chariot and pursued the hero of the Yadus, Krishna. With his strong and extended arms, he seized Krishna's strong and excellent arm.
निगृह्यमाणश्च तदादिदेवो; भृशं सरोषः किल नाम योगी। आदाय वेगेन जगाम विष्णु; र्जिष्णुं महावात इवैकवृक्षम् ॥६-५५-९७॥
The primeval god, though restrained, was intensely angry. The ascetic known as Vishnu swiftly went to Rjishnu like a great wind approaching a solitary tree.
पार्थस्तु विष्टभ्य बलेन पादौ; भीष्मान्तिकं तूर्णमभिद्रवन्तम्। बलान्निजग्राह किरीटमाली; पदेऽथ राजन्दशमे कथञ्चित् ॥६-५५-९८॥
Arjuna, with great strength, quickly approached Bhishma. The crowned warrior seized the opportunity by force, somehow managing to do so on the tenth step, O King.
अवस्थितं च प्रणिपत्य कृष्णं; प्रीतोऽर्जुनः काञ्चनचित्रमाली। उवाच कोपं प्रतिसंहरेति; गतिर्भवान्केशव पाण्डवानाम् ॥६-५५-९९॥
Arjuna, adorned with a golden, variegated garland, stood and bowed to Krishna. Pleased, he said, "Withdraw your anger, for you are the refuge of the Pandavas, O Keshava."
न हास्यते कर्म यथाप्रतिज्ञं; पुत्रैः शपे केशव सोदरैश्च। अन्तं करिष्यामि यथा कुरूणां; त्वयाहमिन्द्रानुज सम्प्रयुक्तः ॥६-५५-१००॥
I swear by my sons and brothers, O Keśava, that the action will not be ridiculed as promised. I will bring an end to the Kurus, as I am engaged by you, O brother of Indra.
ततः प्रतिज्ञां समयं च तस्मै; जनार्दनः प्रीतमना निशम्य। स्थितः प्रिये कौरवसत्तमस्य; रथं सचक्रः पुनरारुरोह ॥६-५५-१०१॥
Then, having heard the promise and the appointed time, Krishna, pleased at heart, stood by the dear Kaurava prince and ascended the chariot with its wheels once more.
स तानभीषून्पुनराददानः; प्रगृह्य शङ्खं द्विषतां निहन्ता। विनादयामास ततो दिशश्च; स पाञ्चजन्यस्य रवेण शौरिः ॥६-५५-१०२॥
Krishna, the destroyer of enemies, took up the fearless ones again and, holding the conch, made the directions resound with the sound of Pāñcajanya.
व्याविद्धनिष्काङ्गदकुण्डलं तं; रजोविकीर्णाञ्चितपक्ष्मनेत्रम्। विशुद्धदंष्ट्रं प्रगृहीतशङ्खं; विचुक्रुशुः प्रेक्ष्य कुरुप्रवीराः ॥६-५५-१०३॥
Seeing him with scattered earrings and armlets, eyes covered with dust, and pure teeth while holding a conch, the Kuru heroes cried out in alarm.
मृदङ्गभेरीपटहप्रणादा; नेमिस्वना दुन्दुभिनिस्वनाश्च। ससिंहनादाश्च बभूवुरुग्राः; सर्वेष्वनीकेषु ततः कुरूणाम् ॥६-५५-१०४॥
The fierce sounds of drums, kettledrums, and other instruments, along with the roars of lions, echoed throughout all the Kuru armies.
गाण्डीवघोषः स्तनयित्नुकल्पो; जगाम पार्थस्य नभो दिशश्च। जग्मुश्च बाणा विमलाः प्रसन्नाः; सर्वा दिशः पाण्डवचापमुक्ताः ॥६-५५-१०५॥
The thunderous sound of Arjuna's Gandiva bow echoed through the sky and all directions, as the pure and clear arrows shot forth, reaching every direction from the Pandava's bow.
तं कौरवाणामधिपो बलेन; भीष्मेण भूरिश्रवसा च सार्धम्। अभ्युद्ययावुद्यतबाणपाणिः; कक्षं दिधक्षन्निव धूमकेतुः ॥६-५५-१०६॥
The leader of the Kauravas, accompanied by his forces, Bhishma, and Bhurishravas, moved forward with his bow and arrow ready, as if he were a comet about to set the forest ablaze.
अथार्जुनाय प्रजहार भल्ला; न्भूरिश्रवाः सप्त सुवर्णपुङ्खान्। दुर्योधनस्तोमरमुग्रवेगं; शल्यो गदां शान्तनवश्च शक्तिम् ॥६-५५-१०७॥
Then Bhūriśravāḥ shot seven golden-feathered arrows at Arjuna; Duryodhana threw a spear with great speed; Śalya wielded a mace; and Śāntanava held a spear.
स सप्तभिः सप्त शरप्रवेका; न्संवार्य भूरिश्रवसा विसृष्टान्। शितेन दुर्योधनबाहुमुक्तं; क्षुरेण तत्तोमरमुन्ममाथ ॥६-५५-१०८॥
He blocked the seven arrows released by Bhurishravas and then cut off the spear released by Duryodhana's arm with a sharp razor.
ततः शुभामापततीं स शक्तिं; विद्युत्प्रभां शान्तनवेन मुक्ताम्। गदां च मद्राधिपबाहुमुक्तां; द्वाभ्यां शराभ्यां निचकर्त वीरः ॥६-५५-१०९॥
Then the hero skillfully intercepted and cut off the approaching auspicious spear, which shone like lightning and was released by Śāṃtanu's son, along with the mace hurled by the Madra king, using two arrows.
ततो भुजाभ्यां बलवद्विकृष्य; चित्रं धनुर्गाण्डिवमप्रमेयम्। माहेन्द्रमस्त्रं विधिवत्सुघोरं; प्रादुश्चकाराद्भुतमन्तरिक्षे ॥६-५५-११०॥
Then, with great strength, he drew the magnificent and immeasurable Gandiva bow with both arms and properly manifested the very fierce weapon of Indra in the sky, creating a wondrous sight.
तेनोत्तमास्त्रेण ततो महात्मा; सर्वाण्यनीकानि महाधनुष्मान्। शरौघजालैर्विमलाग्निवर्णै; र्निवारयामास किरीटमाली ॥६-५५-१११॥
Then the great soul, adorned with a crown, used his excellent weapon to hold back all the armies with a barrage of pure, fire-colored arrows.
शिलीमुखाः पार्थधनुःप्रमुक्ता; रथान्ध्वजाग्राणि धनूंषि बाहून्। निकृत्य देहान्विविशुः परेषां; नरेन्द्रनागेन्द्रतुरङ्गमाणाम् ॥६-५५-११२॥
The arrows shot by Arjuna severed the banners, bows, and arms of the enemy chariots, penetrating the bodies of enemy kings, elephants, and horses.
ततो दिशश्चानुदिशश्च पार्थः; शरैः सुधारैर्निशितैर्वितत्य। गाण्डीवशब्देन मनांसि तेषां; किरीटमाली व्यथयां चकार ॥६-५५-११३॥
Arjuna, adorned with a diadem, then spread his sharp and keen arrows in all directions, causing agitation in their minds with the resounding noise of his Gandiva bow.
तस्मिंस्तथा घोरतमे प्रवृत्ते; शङ्खस्वना दुन्दुभिनिस्वनाश्च। अन्तर्हिता गाण्डिवनिस्वनेन; भभूवुरुग्राश्च रणप्रणादाः ॥६-५५-११४॥
In that dire situation, as the battle commenced, the sounds of conches and drums were drowned out by the sound of Gandiva, and the battle cries became fierce.
गाण्डीवशब्दं तमथो विदित्वा; विराटराजप्रमुखा नृवीराः। पाञ्चालराजो द्रुपदश्च वीर; स्तं देशमाजग्मुरदीनसत्त्वाः ॥६-५५-११५॥
Upon hearing the sound of the Gandiva bow, the brave warriors, led by King Virata, including the King of Panchala, Drupada, and other heroes, arrived at the place with unwavering courage.
सर्वाणि सैन्यानि तु तावकानि; यतो यतो गाण्डिवजः प्रणादः। ततस्ततः संनतिमेव जग्मु; र्न तं प्रतीपोऽभिससार कश्चित् ॥६-५५-११६॥
All the armies, except yours, moved with humility wherever they heard the sound of Arjuna's bow. No one dared to confront him.
तस्मिन्सुघोरे नृपसम्प्रहारे; हताः प्रवीराः सरथाः ससूताः। गजाश्च नाराचनिपाततप्ता; महापताकाः शुभरुक्मकक्ष्याः ॥६-५५-११७॥
In that dreadful battle of kings, the valiant warriors were slain along with their chariots and charioteers; the elephants, struck down by iron arrows, bore great banners and adorned with beautiful golden girdles.
परीतसत्त्वाः सहसा निपेतुः; किरीटिना भिन्नतनुत्रकायाः। दृढाहताः पत्रिभिरुग्रवेगैः; पार्थेन भल्लैर्निशितैः शिताग्रैः ॥६-५५-११८॥
The surrounded warriors suddenly fell, their bodies shattered by the crowned one. They were struck firmly by Arjuna's arrows, which flew with fierce speed and had sharp, pointed tips.
निकृत्तयन्त्रा निहतेन्द्रकीला; ध्वजा महान्तो ध्वजिनीमुखेषु। पदातिसङ्घाश्च रथाश्च सङ्ख्ये; हयाश्च नागाश्च धनञ्जयेन ॥६-५५-११९॥
The battlefield was filled with broken machines and destroyed posts of Indra, with great flags at the forefront of the army. Infantry groups, chariots, horses, and elephants were all led by Dhananjaya (Arjuna) in the battle.
बाणाहतास्तूर्णमपेतसत्त्वा; विष्टभ्य गात्राणि निपेतुरुर्व्याम्। ऐन्द्रेण तेनास्त्रवरेण राज; न्महाहवे भिन्नतनुत्रदेहाः ॥६-५५-१२०॥
Struck by arrows and quickly losing their strength, they supported themselves briefly before falling to the ground. O king, in the great battle, the bodies were shattered by Indra's excellent weapon.
ततः शरौघैर्निशितैः किरीटिना; नृदेहशस्त्रक्षतलोहितोदा। नदी सुघोरा नरदेहफेना; प्रवर्तिता तत्र रणाजिरे वै ॥६-५५-१२१॥
Then Arjuna, with his sharp arrows, created a terrifying river of blood from the wounded bodies and weapons, foaming with human bodies, which flowed fiercely on the battlefield.
वेगेन सातीव पृथुप्रवाहा; प्रसुस्रुता भैरवारावरूपा। परेतनागाश्वशरीररोधा; नरान्त्रमज्जाभृतमांसपङ्का ॥६-५५-१२२॥
The swift and extremely wide streams, with a terrifying and dreadful appearance, were flowing, obstructed by the bodies of dead serpents and horses, filled with human intestines, marrow, and flesh mud.
प्रभूतरक्षोगणभूतसेविता; शिरःकपालाकुलकेशशाद्वला। शरीरसङ्घातसहस्रवाहिनी; विशीर्णनानाकवचोर्मिसङ्कुला ॥६-५५-१२३॥
The entity is served by numerous hosts of demons and spirits, adorned with skulls and green hair. It carries thousands of bodies, surrounded by torn waves of various armors.
नराश्वनागास्थिनिकृत्तशर्करा; विनाशपातालवती भयावहा। तां कङ्कमालावृतगृध्रकह्वैः; क्रव्यादसङ्घैश्च तरक्षुभिश्च ॥६-५५-१२४॥
The ground was strewn with the bones of men, horses, and elephants, creating a terrifying scene reminiscent of the underworld. It was a place haunted by vultures, eagles, and packs of carnivorous beasts and jackals.
उपेतकूलां ददृशुः समन्तात्क्रूरां महावैतरणीप्रकाशाम्। प्रवर्तितामर्जुनबाणसङ्घैर्मेदोवसासृक्प्रवहां सुभीमाम् ॥६-५५-१२५॥
They saw the banks all around, fierce and terrifying, resembling the great river Vaitarani, set in motion by the multitude of Arjuna's arrows, flowing with fat, flesh, and blood, and appearing very dreadful.
ते चेदिपाञ्चालकरूषमत्स्याः; पार्थाश्च सर्वे सहिताः प्रणेदुः। वित्रास्य सेनां ध्वजिनीपतीनां; सिंहो मृगाणामिव यूथसङ्घान् ॥ विनेदतुस्तावतिहर्षयुक्तौ; गाण्डीवधन्वा च जनार्दनश्च ॥६-५५-१२६॥
The Cedis, Panchalas, Karushas, Matsyas, and the sons of Pritha all roared together, terrifying the army leaders like a lion terrifies herds of animals. Then, filled with great joy, Arjuna and Krishna roared.
ततो रविं संहृतरश्मिजालं; दृष्ट्वा भृशं शस्त्रपरिक्षताङ्गाः। तदैन्द्रमस्त्रं विततं सुघोर; मसह्यमुद्वीक्ष्य युगान्तकल्पम् ॥६-५५-१२७॥
Then, observing the sun whose rays were withdrawn and the limbs severely wounded by weapons, the very fierce and unbearable weapon of Indra was spread, resembling the end of an era.
अथापयानं कुरवः सभीष्माः; सद्रोणदुर्योधनबाह्लिकाश्च। चक्रुर्निशां सन्धिगतां समीक्ष्य; विभावसोर्लोहितराजियुक्ताम् ॥६-५५-१२८॥
Then the Kuru warriors, along with Bhishma, Drona, Duryodhana, and Bahlika, decided to retreat as they observed the night approaching, with the sun's red rays filling the sky.
अवाप्य कीर्तिं च यशश्च लोके; विजित्य शत्रूंश्च धनञ्जयोऽपि। ययौ नरेन्द्रैः सह सोदरैश्च; समाप्तकर्मा शिबिरं निशायाम् ॥ ततः प्रजज्ञे तुमुलः कुरूणां; निशामुखे घोरतरः प्रणादः ॥६-५५-१२९॥
After achieving fame and glory in the world and defeating his enemies, Arjuna, along with the kings and his brothers, returned to the camp at night after completing his task. Then, at the onset of night, a tumultuous and dreadful sound arose from the Kurus.
रणे रथानामयुतं निहत्य; हता गजाः सप्तशतार्जुनेन। प्राच्याश्च सौवीरगणाश्च सर्वे; निपातिताः क्षुद्रकमालवाश्च ॥ महत्कृतं कर्म धनञ्जयेन; कर्तुं यथा नार्हति कश्चिदन्यः ॥६-५५-१३०॥
In the battle, Arjuna slew ten thousand chariots and seven hundred elephants. All the easterners and the tribes of Sauvira, along with the Kshudraka and Malava, were defeated. This great feat was accomplished by Dhananjaya, something no one else could achieve.
श्रुतायुरम्बष्ठपतिश्च राजा; तथैव दुर्मर्षणचित्रसेनौ। द्रोणः कृपः सैन्धवबाह्लिकौ च; भूरिश्रवाः शल्यशलौ च राजन् ॥ स्वबाहुवीर्येण जिताः सभीष्माः; किरीटिना लोकमहारथेन ॥६-५५-१३१॥
Śrutāyuḥ, Ambaṣṭhapati, and the king, along with Durmarṣaṇa and Citrasena, as well as Droṇa, Kṛpa, Saindhava, Bāhlika, Bhūriśravāḥ, Śalya, and Śala, were all defeated by Arjuna, the great charioteer of the world, through his own prowess, even with Bhīṣma on their side.
इति ब्रुवन्तः शिबिराणि जग्मुः; सर्वे गणा भारत ये त्वदीयाः। उल्कासहस्रैश्च सुसम्प्रदीप्तै; र्विभ्राजमानैश्च तथा प्रदीपैः ॥ किरीटिवित्रासितसर्वयोधा; चक्रे निवेशं ध्वजिनी कुरूणाम् ॥६-५५-१३२॥
Thus, speaking in this manner, all your troops, O Bharata, proceeded to their camps. The camps were illuminated with thousands of well-lit and shining torches and lamps. All the warriors, frightened by Arjuna, set up the camp for the Kaurava army.
