Section LXXXVII - Drona forms mighty battle array with Karna and Jayadratha

| Posted in: Hinduism Itihasa

Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section LXXXVII including examples of moral lessons in daily life. The Maha-Bharata is one of the largest epics ever written containing roughly 100,000 Sanskrit verses. It deals with the legendary history of ancient India and contains a large number of interwoven tales.

Short summary of the chapter:
After the fierce battle between Arjuna and Bhishma had ended, Drona began to array his divisions for battle, with warriors shouting in wrath and preparing for combat. The soldiers were seen stretching their bows, rubbing their bow-strings, and wielding swords and maces in anticipation of the upcoming battle. Drona, accompanied by warriors like Karna and Asvatthaman, organized his troops with great speed, while Jayadratha and his allies prepared to join the fray behind Drona’s position. Durmarshana, Duhsasana, and Vikarna took up strategic positions in the army, ready to support Jayadratha’s objectives in the battle.

Drona formed a massive array that spanned forty-eight miles in length and twenty miles in width, with different divisions like the Sakata, the lotus, and the needle designed for optimal defense and offense. Kritavarman, the ruler of the Kamvojas, Duryodhana, and Karna were stationed strategically within the array, along with countless heroes to protect the head of the formation. King Jayadratha was positioned on one side of the array, while Drona stood at the entrance of the Sakata, exuding a powerful presence with his large bow and white armor. The Kauravas were filled with delight and the Siddhas and Caranas were filled with wonder at the sight of Drona’s formidable array.

The soldiers in Drona’s array were ready to devour the earth with its mountains, seas, and forests, as the formation brimmed with carts, men, steeds, and elephants, creating a fearsome and imposing spectacle. King Duryodhana was filled with joy at the sight of Drona’s mighty array, which was compared to the ocean in its agitation and capability to strike fear into the hearts of the enemy. The scene was one of intense preparation, with warriors fully geared up for battle, eager to prove their prowess on the battlefield. As the stage was set for the impending conflict, the atmosphere was charged with tension and anticipation, with both sides bracing themselves for the upcoming clash.

Full English translation:

This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated. If you are looking for authentic sources such as the Sanskrit text or the Full English translation of Mahabharata Section LXXXVII - Drona forms mighty battle array with Karna and Jayadratha, have a look at the following articles:

Section LXXXVII, online text

English translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli.

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Mahabharata (English Summary)

by Kisari Mohan Ganguli | ISBN-10: 8121505933

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FAQ of Mahabharata, Section LXXXVII:

FAQs about Drona's Battle Array

How did Drona prepare his troops for battle? He arrayed them in formations, with skilled warriors and various weapons. Who were some of the key warriors in Drona's array? Karna, Asvatthaman, Salya, Vrishasena, Kripa, and Jayadratha played important roles. What was the significance of Drona's Sakata formation? It was a massive, impenetrable array that instilled fear and wonder in all who beheld it.

Daily life: Drona forms mighty battle array with Karna and Jayadratha:

The story from the Mahabharata, involving warriors readying themselves for battle and strategizing their formations, like the Sakata and the needle arrays, teaches us about the importance of preparation and teamwork in facing challenges. In daily life, this can be translated into the need for individuals to plan ahead and organize their tasks efficiently, just like the warriors arranging their divisions. It also highlights the value of collaboration, where each person plays a role in a larger strategy, akin to each warrior holding a position within the battle formation.

Furthermore, the text underscores the significance of leadership and having a clear vision, as demonstrated by Drona who leads and arranges his troops with precision. This can be applied to everyday situations where taking initiative and guiding others can lead to collective success. Additionally, the story reminds us of the importance of adapting to circumstances and being resilient, much like the warriors who were ready to shift their strategies in battle.

By embodying these principles of preparation, teamwork, leadership, and adaptability, individuals can overcome obstacles in their personal and professional lives, much like the warriors in the epic tale preparing for the challenges of battle. This narrative encourages us to approach our tasks with determination and to work collectively towards achieving our goals, ensuring we are ready for any challenges that come our way.

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