Verse 8
bhavān bhīṣmaś ca karṇaś ca kṛpaś ca samitiñ-jayaḥ
aśvatthāmā vikarṇaś ca saumadattis tathaiva ca
Word-for-Word Meaning:
- bhavān — your esteemed self (referring to Dronacharya)
- bhīṣmaḥ ca — and Bhishma
- karṇaḥ ca — and Karna
- kṛpaḥ ca — and Kripa (Kripacharya)
- samitiñ-jayaḥ — victorious in battle
- aśvatthāmā — Ashwatthama (son of Drona)
- vikarṇaḥ — Vikarna (one of Duryodhana’s brothers)
- saumadattiḥ — the son of Somadatta, i.e., Bhurishrava
- tathaiva ca — as well as (and also)
“You (Dronacharya), Bhishma, Karna, Kripa — all victorious in battle; Ashwatthama, Vikarna, and Bhurishrava, the son of Somadatta — are all great warriors.”
Expanded Interpretation:
1. Highlighting Key Warriors on the Kaurava Side:
Duryodhana now begins listing the principal commanders of his own army. This is not just a tactical move but also a way to reaffirm his confidence in the strength of his side.
2. Beginning with Dronacharya (Bhavān):
The verse begins with “bhavān” — a respectful address to Dronacharya himself. This subtle flattery serves two purposes:
- It gives Drona a sense of importance and leadership.
- It emotionally involves him in the stakes of the battle.
Duryodhana is not just listing names; he’s motivating his warriors by making them feel seen and valued.
Who Are These Warriors?
Bhishma:
The grand-uncle of both Pandavas and Kauravas. Known for his invincibility, wisdom, and vow of celibacy. He is the commander-in-chief of the Kaurava army.
Karna:
The son of Kunti (unbeknownst to most), a loyal friend to Duryodhana, and a great archer. He symbolizes loyalty, pride, and tragic nobility.
Kripacharya:
A revered teacher and a master of warfare, known for his calm demeanor and knowledge of dharma. The title samitiñ-jayaḥ (“victorious in battle”) applies well to him.
Ashwatthama:
Son of Drona, known for his unmatched fury and ultimate downfall. He represents raw power without full wisdom.
Vikarna:
One of the few Kauravas who opposed the humiliation of Draupadi. Though loyal to Duryodhana, he was more righteous than his brothers.
Bhurishrava (Saumadatti):
Son of Somadatta, a noble and skilled warrior from the Kuru lineage, known for his valor and traditional combat values.
Philosophical Perspective:
A Psychological Boost:
Duryodhana is not just informing — he’s psyching up his teacher and army. In the face of a formidable enemy (Pandavas), he reassures himself by naming his heroes.
Leadership Insight:
Great leaders understand the power of recognition. Duryodhana uses this moment to name warriors he depends on, instilling confidence and aligning his team with the mission ahead.
Spiritual Symbolism:
Each warrior in this list represents a trait or shadow that we confront in our own life-battles:
- Dronacharya — Skill and intellect, but sometimes clouded by obligation
- Bhishma — Duty taken to the extreme, even when morally torn
- Karna — Valor with internal conflict, standing for loyalty over truth
- Kripa — Wisdom and stability
- Ashwatthama — Uncontrolled emotion and ego
- Vikarna — Moral courage in a misguided environment
- Bhurishrava — Traditional values and restraint
These are not just names in a war — they are archetypes of our inner self.
Conclusion:
Verse 8 showcases Duryodhana’s attempt to assert strength, inspire confidence, and unite his top warriors. It’s a powerful leadership move — filled with emotion, strategy, and psychology. In a deeper sense, it reminds us to acknowledge the strengths we already possess before heading into any challenge.
Reflection Questions for You:
When you’re challenged, do you remind yourself of your allies and inner strengths?
Which of these warriors’ traits do you see in yourself — and how do you manage them?
Are you more like Duryodhana (seeking reassurance), Bhishma (bound by duty), or Kripa (steady in wisdom)?