07.077
Vasudeva said:
Behold Suyodhana, who has surpassed others, O Dhanañjaya. I believe he is in distress; there is no chariot like his.
The son of Dhritarashtra, who is a great archer and skilled in weapons, is known for his ability to shoot arrows afar. He is intoxicated by war, firm in his use of weapons, and a remarkable fighter, possessing immense strength.
He, who has grown extremely happy and is respected by great charioteers, is accomplished and always, O son of Pritha, constantly hates the Pandavas.
Therefore, I believe it is the right time for you to engage in battle, O sinless one. Here, your gambling has arrived, either for victory or for something else.
Here, O Arjuna, let go of the long-held poison of anger. This great warrior is the source of the Pandavas' troubles.
He has received your reproach; see the success of your own actions. How indeed would a king, who seeks a kingdom, go to battle with you?
By good fortune, this has now come within your arrow's reach. Ensure that he gives up his life, O Dhananjaya.
Blinded by the pride of his wealth, he has not experienced sorrow. Moreover, O best of men, he is unaware of your valor in battle.
O son of Pritha, even the combined forces of gods, demons, and humans across the three worlds cannot defeat you in battle, let alone a single Suyodhana.
Fortunately, he has reached near your chariot, O Arjuna. O mighty-armed, slay him just as Indra slew Vritra.
This person, indeed, has always been involved in misfortune, O sinless one, and by deceit, he has cheated Dharmaraja in gambling.
O giver of honor, many cruel deeds have always been done by this evil-minded person among the innocent ones among you.
O son of Pritha, without hesitation, conquer that ignoble and mean man who is always lustful, by making up your mind in the noble battle.
O Pandava, through deceit, the kingdom was stolen, leading to forest exile and torment. This was placed in the heart of Krishna, showcasing heroism.
By good fortune, this has come within the range of your arrows. It strives ahead for the counteraction of the task, guided by destiny.
"Fortunately, you are aware that you must fight in the battle. O son of Pritha, it is fortunate that all your desires have been fulfilled."
Therefore, O Arjuna, in battle, slay the son of Dhritarashtra, the disgrace of the family, just as Indra once slew Jambha in the war between the gods and demons.
With this one slain by you, let this helpless army be shattered. Cut the root of this enmity, the final bath, of the evil-minded.
Sanjaya said:
Arjuna instructed, "This is my duty; ignore everything else and proceed to where Suyodhana is."
The kingdom, which was enjoyed by us for a long time without any troubles, even his head I would cut off in battle after conquering him.
O Mādhava, I am able to take a step in pulling the hair of Kṛṣṇā, who is unworthy of such torment.
Thus, joyful Krishna, speaking in this way, sent the excellent white horses into the battle, desiring to reach that king.
When your son approached them, O best of the Bharatas, he did not feel fear even when great fear arose, O honorable one.
All the warriors there worshipped him when Arjuna and Hṛṣīkeśa set out without hesitation.
Then, O lord of the people, a great sound indeed arose there from all your army, upon seeing the king in battle.
In the midst of the uproar caused by the people, when the terrifying situation arose, your son, having disregarded everything, restrained the enemy.
The son of Kunti, obstructed by your son, the archer, became angry again, and he, the scorcher of foes, was in that state.
Upon seeing both Duryodhana and Dhananjaya equally enraged, the kings observed them with fearsome appearances from all sides.
Upon seeing Arjuna and Krishna excited, your son, as if smiling, challenged them to a fight, O great one.
Then, filled with joy, the descendant of the Daśārhas and Arjuna, the son of Pāṇḍu, made a great noise and blew their excellent conches.
Upon seeing the sons of Kuru, they both, who were joyful in appearance, became completely despairing about the life of your son.
The Kurus were overwhelmed with intense grief, believing that their son had been consumed by the fire.
Upon seeing this, the warriors, Krishna and Pandava, were elated and said, "The king is slain, the king is slain," in their fear-stricken state.
Upon hearing the uproar of the people, Duryodhana declared, "Do not fear; I shall send Krishna and Arjuna to their demise."
Having addressed all the soldiers, the king, eager for victory, spoke to Arjuna with anger, delivering this speech.
O Arjuna, show me quickly the divine and human weapons you have mastered, if you truly are the son of Pandu.
Show your strength and valor, like that of Keśava, quickly in me, so that we may witness your prowess.
"Our actions are said to be performed indirectly. Show here those actions which are endowed with honor to the master."
