07.160
Sanjaya said:
Then Duryodhana approached Drona and said, overwhelmed by anger, yet causing joy and brilliance.
Those who rest in battle, exhausted and with weary minds, having gained their target, especially the enemies, are not to be forgiven.
"But we endured that for your sake of affection. Now, these Pāṇḍavas, having rested, are stronger."
Though completely deprived of splendor and strength, under your protection, they continue to grow repeatedly.
All the divine weapons, including the Brahma weapons, remain and indeed become especially significant.
"Neither the sons of Pandu, nor we, nor any others in the world are archers equal to you in battle. I truly say this to you."
O best of the twice-born, you, who are knowledgeable in all weapons, could undoubtedly destroy these worlds along with gods, demons, and gandharvas using divine weapons.
You, sir, forgive these who are especially afraid of you, considering either their discipleship or my unfortunate state.
Thus, elated and provoked by his son, Droṇa, in anger, addressed these words to Duryodhana, O king.
Being old, I fought with all my strength in the battle against Duryodhana. Henceforth, I must act with a modest desire for victory. All unarmed people should be slain by those who are armed.
"Whatever you consider, whether it is good or bad, I will indeed do that, O Kauravya, as per your words, and not otherwise."
After defeating all the Panchalas in battle and demonstrating valor, I shall remove my armor, O king, and truly take up my weapon.
O son of Kunti, you think that Arjuna is weary in battle. Listen to the truth about his valor, O mighty-armed Kaurava.
Neither gods, nor celestial musicians, nor demigods, nor demons are capable of withstanding the angry Arjuna in battle.
In the Khandava forest, the divine one was confronted by the lord of gods, who was stopped with arrows by the great soul, even as he was raining down.
The Yakshas, Nagas, Daityas, and other beings who were proud of their strength were defeated by the lord of men, and you are aware of that fact.
In the festival, the Gandharvas, led by Citraseṇa, were defeated. You were being taken away by them but were rescued by the one with the firm bow.
The Nivātakavacas, known as the enemies of the gods and considered invincible even by the gods, were defeated in battle by that hero.
The tiger among men conquered thousands of demons residing in Hiranyapura. How can he be overcome by humans?
"O lord of the people, all your strength has been directly destroyed by the efforts of the son of Pandu."
Then, your son, O king, angry at the praise of Arjuna, spoke again to Drona.
I, along with Duḥśāsana, Karṇa, Śakuni, and my uncle, will defeat Arjuna in battle today by dividing Bharata's forces.
Upon hearing those words, Bharadvaja, with a smile, followed the king and said, "May you be well."
Who indeed can destroy Arjuna, the wielder of the Gandiva bow, blazing with energy and inexhaustible, among all warriors, the best of them?
Neither Kubera, Indra, Yama, nor Varuna, nor any demons, serpents, or rakshasas could defeat him, even with all their weapons.
Fools speak these words that you mentioned, O Bhārata. Who would return home safely after facing Arjuna in battle?
You, however, are suspicious of everything, harsh, and determined in your evil ways, yet you wish to speak here about what is appropriate for the good and in your interest.
"Go, you too, O son of Kunti, for your own purposes, and do not delay long. You also wish to fight, for you are indeed a warrior born of a noble family."
Why do you intend to kill all these innocent kings? You are the root cause of this enmity, so target Arjuna.
Your wise uncle, who adheres to the Kshatriya duty, and Duryodhana's mother Gandhari, should approach Arjuna in the battle.
This deceitful gambler, skilled in dice and wise in deceit, will outsmart and conquer the Pandavas in battle.
You spoke extremely joyfully with Karna; repeatedly, Dhritarashtra heard it like an empty echo due to his delusion.
"O father, I, along with Karna and my brother Duhshasana, will together defeat the Pandava brothers in battle."
Thus, your boasting was heard repeatedly in the assembly. Fulfill that promise and be truthful with them.
This invincible Pāṇḍava enemy stands before you. Consider your warrior's duty; it is more honorable for you to die than to achieve victory.
You have given, enjoyed, studied, and obtained the prosperity you desired. You have accomplished your tasks and are free from any debts. Do not fear, go forth and fight, O Pandava.
After saying this, Drona retreated from the battlefield where the others were. Then, by dividing the army, the battle ensued.
