‘Vaisampayana said: 'O king, upon learning the news from the messengers, Shalya, attended by his sons — all mighty warriors — and surrounded by a vast host of troops, advanced towards the Pandavas.'’ ।। 5-8-1 ।।
तस्य सेनानिवेशॊ ऽभूद अध्यर्धम इव यॊजनम तथा हि बहुलां सेनां स बिभर्ति नरर्षभः ।। ५-८-२ ।।
‘So vast was his host that his encampment stretched over a yojana and a half; for that foremost of men, Shalya, bore command over a mighty and innumerable force.’ ।। 5-8-2 ।।
‘In his army were heroes clad in armour of diverse hues, bearing banners of many kinds, adorned with splendid ornaments, and equipped with varied bows, cars, and weapons. Magnificent animals bore them proudly, and they were further graced with garlands, fine robes, and dazzling ornaments, making the entire host resplendent like a moving ocean of splendour.’ ।। 5-8-3 ।।
‘And hundreds upon thousands of the foremost Kshatriyas led his vast host, adorned and attired in the splendid fashions of their native lands.’ ।। 5-8-4 ।।
‘As if oppressing all living beings and shaking the very earth beneath him, he moved forward with measured pace, granting rest to his mighty host, and advanced towards the place where the Pandava awaited.’ ।। 5-8-5 ।।