ततः शङ्खाश्च भेर्यश्च पणवानकगोमुखाः |

सहसैवाभ्यहन्यन्त स शब्दस्तुमुलोऽभवत् || 13 ||

Transliteration:

Tataḥ śaṅkhāś ca bheryaś ca paṇavānaka-gomukhāḥ  

sahasaivābhyahanyanta sa śabdastumulo ‘bhavat

Word-by-Word Meaning:

– ततः (tataḥ): thereafter, then

– शङ्खाः (śaṅkhāḥ): conch shells

– च (ca): and

– भेर्यः (bheryaḥ): kettledrums

– च (ca): and

– पणव-आनक-गोमुखाः (paṇava-ānaka-gomukhāḥ): small drums, tabors, and cow-horns (musical instruments)

– सहसा (sahasā): suddenly, all at once

– एव (eva): indeed

– अभ्यहन्यन्त (abhyahanyanta): were sounded

– स (saḥ): that

– शब्दः (śabdaḥ): sound

– तुमुलः (tumulaḥ): tumultuous, loud

– अभवत् (abhavat): arose, became

Explanation:

In this shloka, the sound of various war instruments is described, highlighting the commencement of the battle. The simultaneous sounding of these instruments created a tumultuous and overwhelming noise that filled the battlefield.

1. The Instruments:

   – Tataḥ śaṅkhāś ca bheryaś ca: Following Bhishma’s conch, the other warriors began blowing their conch shells and beating their kettledrums.

   – Paṇavānaka-gomukhāḥ: Along with conches and kettledrums, other instruments such as tabors (small drums), large drums, and cow-horn trumpets were also sounded.

2. Simultaneous Sound:

   – Sahasaivābhyahanyanta: All these instruments were sounded together, creating a powerful and unified noise. The simultaneous sounding indicates the coordination and readiness of the Kaurava forces.

3. Tumultuous Sound:

   – Sa śabdastumulo ‘bhavat: The sound that arose from these instruments was tumultuous and loud, symbolizing the intensity of the moment and the impending conflict. This deafening noise filled the battlefield, signifying the start of the great war.

Detailed Explanation:

This verse describes the dramatic moment when the Kaurava army begins its battle preparations with a resounding blast of various war instruments. The sound generated by these instruments serves multiple purposes:

– Marking the Start of the Battle: The simultaneous sounding of conches, drums, and other instruments marks the formal commencement of the battle. It is a traditional call to arms, signaling both sides to prepare for combat.

– Symbol of Power and Unity: The coordinated effort to produce this tumultuous sound represents the unity and collective power of the Kaurava army. It showcases their readiness and determination to engage in battle, projecting confidence and strength.

– Psychological Impact: The loud and overwhelming noise was likely intended to intimidate the Pandava forces. The tumultuous sound could unsettle the opposition and boost the morale of the Kauravas by reminding them of their formidable numbers and preparation.

– Traditional and Cultural Significance: In ancient Indian warfare, the blowing of conches and the beating of drums were not just practical but also held religious and cultural significance. These sounds were believed to invoke divine protection and blessings, and to ward off evil forces.

In summary, this shloka captures the high tension and dramatic atmosphere on the battlefield as the Kaurava army prepares to launch its attack. The powerful and coordinated sound of the war instruments underscores the seriousness and scale of the conflict that is about to unfold.