Bhagavad Gita for Modern World: Chapter 1 Verses 12 & 13
Chapter 1 Verses 12 &13 explained
Translation:
Then the grand old Bhishma Pitamah (great grandfather) picked up his Shankh (Conch) and blew (played) it making a loud sound which was like the roar of a lion. This elated Duryodhan.
Immediately thereafter many sounds emerged all of a sudden making the environment full of various sounds. There were Shankh, Dhol, Nagade, Mridang, and Go-mukh (Bhopu) which were being played in an overwhelming manner.
Commentary:
Bhishma blew his Shankh to mark the presence of the Kaurava army. Taking his cue, many other Kaurava generals started blowing their own Shankh. This was a way to instil energy in their army.
In ancient times, the army would have musicians with them who would play instruments like Shankh, Dhol, Nagade, Mridang, and Go-mukh (Bhopu) to instil energy in their armies.
On seeing their generals take a lead, the musicians in every unit start playing their instruments, all of which created a massive noise. It was loud and scary and was meant to scare the opposing armies.
