07.021
Core and Pancharatra: Karna dampens the overexcitement of Duryodhana, by suggesting Bhima will certainly rally back the Pandava army.
Dhritarashtra spoke:
When Bharadvaja defeated the Pandavas in the great battle, someone else advanced among all the Panchalas.
Having resolved to engage in the noble battle that brings fame to the warriors, a path not taken by cowards but pursued by the best of men.
Indeed, a true hero is one who returns to battle even when the ranks are broken. Alas, there was no man who dared to face Droṇa standing firm.
The warrior, skilled in battle, appeared like a yawning tiger and a broken elephant, as he abandoned his life in the fight.
He was a great archer, a tiger among men, who increased the sorrow of his enemies, was grateful, devoted to truth, and a well-wisher of Duryodhana.
Sanjaya, tell me which warriors turned back upon seeing the hero Bharadvaja standing in the army.
Sanjaya said:
Upon seeing the Panchalas, Pandavas, Matsyas, Srinjayas, and the Cedis and Kekayas being shaken and driven back in battle by Drona's arrows.
The flood of arrows released from Drona's bow took away lives just as a great flood of the ocean carries away boats.
The Kauravas surrounded the area from all sides, creating a tumultuous sound with their lion-like roars, various instruments, and the movement of chariots, elephants, men, and horses.
Seeing his own people surrounding him in the midst of the army, King Duryodhana, joyful and as if smiling, spoke to Karna.
Observe, O son of Radha, how the Panchalas are being scattered by Drona's arrows, akin to deer being frightened by a lion in the forest, by the mighty archer.
These warriors will never again desire to fight, I believe. They are shattered by Drona, like great trees by a storm.
Afflicted by arrows with golden shafts by the great soul, these do not follow a single path, but whirl around from one place to another.
Restrained by the Kauravas and the noble Drona, these others formed a circle like elephants surrounded by fire.
Overwhelmed by Drona's sharp arrows, like bees, they clung to each other, intent on fleeing from the battlefield.
This Bhima, with his firm anger, seems to threaten me, Karna, as he stands deprived of the Pandavas and Srinjayas, surrounded by my warriors.
Today, the evil-minded perceives the world as being made of Drona. The Pandava is indeed hopeless about his life and kingdom.
Karna said:
The mighty-armed warrior would never abandon the battle while alive, nor would he tolerate the challenges, O tiger among men.
In my view, the Pāṇḍavas will not be defeated in battle. They are valiant, powerful, adept in weaponry, and confident in warfare.
The Pandavas, recalling their past sufferings from poison, fire, gambling, and exile in the forest, will not take the battle lightly; this is my belief.
Vrikodara, the mighty-armed and of immeasurable energy, has indeed been deceived. The son of Kunti, Bhima, will slay the great chariot warriors who are excellent in battle.
He will slay groups upon groups with a sword, bow, spear, horses, elephants, men, chariots, and an iron staff.
These warriors, led by Satyaki, including the chariots, Panchalas, Kekayas, Matsyas, and especially the Pandavas, follow him.
The heroes, strong and valiant great charioteers, were especially urged on by the excited Bhima.
The best warriors of the Kuru dynasty surrounded Drona from all sides, aiming to protect Vrikodara, just as clouds gather around the sun.
These individuals, united in their purpose, would indeed torment someone who has taken vows, just as moths that desire to die would torment an unprotected lamp. Undoubtedly, they are skilled in weaponry and are also sufficient in defense.
I believe that Bhāradvāja is burdened excessively. We should quickly proceed to where Droṇa is. Like crows attacking a great serpent, do not harm the one who is steadfast in his vows.
Sanjaya said:
Upon hearing Radheya's words, King Duryodhana, accompanied by his brothers, proceeded to Drona's chariot.
There arose a great clamor as the Pāṇḍavas, having returned with their excellent horses of various colors, sought to kill Droṇa.
