Mahabharata Udyoga Parva – कथं शिखण्डी गाङ्गेय कन्या भूत्वा सती तदा

Shloka (श्लोक)

दुर्यॊधन उवाच
कथं शिखण्डी गाङ्गेय कन्या भूत्वा सती तदा
पुरुषॊ ऽभवद युधि शरेष्ठ तन मे बरूहि पितामह

⚡ Quick Meaning

Duryodhana questions how Shikhandi can become a woman and fight in the battle.

Translations

English Translation

Duryodhana, in his dilemma from the battlefield, questions Bhishma about Shikhandi, who had the guise of a woman yet was permitted to fight valiantly against male warriors in the war.

हिंदी अनुवाद

दुर्योधन, युद्ध भूमि से, भीष्म से पूछता है कि शिखण्डी कैसे एक महिला होकर युद्ध में लड़ सकता है, जबकि उसे पुरुषों के खिलाफ लड़ने की अनुमति है।

Commentary

Context

This moment emphasizes Duryodhana’s concern over the strategies being used against him, revealing his vulnerabilities.

Meaning

This shloka reflects the nuances of gender roles and how they can be wielded as tactics in warfare.

Application

We can learn to evaluate societal norms critically, understanding that flexibility can lead to strategic advantages in conflicts.