1.20 — Arjuna prepares to speak

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Dharma In You · Updated 8 October 2026

Speaker: Sanjaya, reporting to Dhritarashtra

Teaching film · Sanskrit · Everyday reflection

Our original brief meaning and reflection accompany the Sanskrit below.

Context, Sanskrit and lesson transcript

Sanjaya brings us to the moment when Arjuna turns to Krishna, just before the fighting begins.

अथ व्यवस्थितान्दृष्ट्वा धार्तराष्ट्रान् कपिध्वजः।
प्रवृत्ते शस्त्रसम्पाते धनुरुद्यम्य पाण्डवः॥२०॥
हृषीकेशं तदा वाक्यमिदमाह महीपते।

Brief meaning, in our own words. Arjuna sees Dhritarashtra’s sons standing ready. With weapons about to clash, he raises his bow and addresses Krishna.

The verse calls Arjuna the bearer of the monkey banner. Our chosen edition identifies the emblem with Hanuman. Sanjaya is still narrating to the king; Arjuna’s request follows in the next passage.

Here is our everyday reflection. Before a difficult conversation, take a breath and make your question clear. Attention can begin even in a moment of pressure.