An Index to the Names in the Mahabharata, with Short Explanations and a Concordance to the Bombay and Calcutta Editions and P. C. Roy's Translation c5.s4.15.2

c5.s4.15.2

Then that dreadful encounter took place (IX, 34).—§ 615: Requested by Janamejaya (α), Vaiśampāyana related how Bala-Rāma had determined upon and set out (under the constellation Maitra) on a pilgrimage to the tīrthas on the Sarasvatī (β), having let the sacred fire be brought from Dvārakā and the priests, and having given away rich donations to everyone who wished for them, accompanied by priests, friends, brahmans, chariots, elephants, steeds, and servants, visiting all the sacred places along her course. In the course of his wanderings he at last came to Kurukṣetra. Requested by Janamejaya (γ), Vaiśampāyana related the Baladevatīrthayātrā (q.v.) (IX, 35-54). Requested by Dhṛtarāṣṭra, Sañjaya related: Beholding Bala-Rāma, Duryodhana rejoiced. According to the proposal of Bala-Rāma, Yudhiṣṭhira with his brothers and Duryodhana proceeded westwards to Samantapañcaka on the southern side of the Sarasvatī. D. and Cā. praised Duryodhana. Description of Bhīma and Duryodhana (ο). Duryodhana told Yudhiṣṭhira (who was standing among his brothers and Kṛṣṇa and Rāma) to behold the battle, protected by the Kaikeyas, etc. (π). That large assembly of kings sat down, as did also Bala-Rāma, who was worshipped by all around him. Bhīma and Duryodhana stood inciting each other with violent speeches (IX, 55). The dispute between the two heroes (ρ). At last Duryodhana said, "What is the use of bragging? fight with me," and was applauded by the Somakas, etc.