In the Bhagavad Gita, as the great war of Kurukshetra is about to begin, the mighty warriors on both sides are introduced. Among them, the verse:
dhṛṣṭaketuś cekitānaḥ
kāśirājaś ca vīryavān
purujit kuntibhojaś ca
śaibyaś ca nara-puṅgavaḥ
…mentions Dhṛṣṭaketu, Cekitāna, Kāśirāja, Purujit, Kuntibhoja, and Śaibya, all known as powerful and courageous men. These names may appear as historical or mythical figures, but their presence in this sacred scripture also points to qualities of inner strength that are very relevant even today.
So, what do these warriors represent for us in modern life? Are they just ancient names, or do they awaken something deeper within us?
1. Every Life Is a Battlefield
We may not hold swords or ride chariots, but each one of us stands on a battlefield every day. Some face the war of depression and anxiety. Some face rejection, criticism, loneliness, or a constant inner voice that says, “You’re not enough.”
In these moments, what we need is inner strength — not to destroy, but to endure, to rise, and to keep going.
2. Rediscovering Your Own Warriors
Each warrior named in this verse has a symbolic meaning:
Dhṛṣṭaketu (meaning “firm-bannered”): Represents strong determination. In a world full of distractions, holding your focus is a rare and heroic act.
Cekitāna (meaning “observant, wise”): Represents awareness and wisdom — to respond rather than react.
Kāśirāja (King of Kashi, known for bravery): Symbolizes courage in the face of uncertainty.
Purujit and Kuntibhoja (both known for generosity and family loyalty): Represent service and selfless action.
Śaibya (called “nara-puṅgava”, meaning the best among men): Reflects dignity, moral character, and righteousness.
These are not just people in a book — they are virtues within us. But most of us forget them, buried under self-doubt, stress, or the pressure to constantly compete and perform.
3. Strength Is Not Loud
In today’s world, we often mistake strength for aggression, and humility for weakness. But the Gita reminds us that real strength is quiet, calm, and rooted in truth.
You are strong when:
You remain kind even when others are harsh.
You forgive even when you have every right to be angry.
You keep going, even when the outcome is uncertain.
Such strength is not seen in power but in self-mastery. Just like these ancient warriors who followed duty, not pride.
4. Comparison Is the Thief of Strength
The verse lists many warriors, all powerful, but never compares them. This is important. It shows us that life doesn’t need us to be the best, just to be our best.
Everyone is fighting a different battle. Dhṛṣṭaketu doesn’t have to be like Kāśirāja, and neither do you have to be like anyone else. Your courage might look like showing up for your children after a long day. Your strength might be in choosing peace instead of argument. Whatever it is — it matters.
5. Your Inner Army Needs You
The Gita teaches that Arjuna, though a great warrior himself, still needed a reminder of who he was. We all do.
Sometimes we forget our value. We think we’re not good enough, not brave enough, or not doing enough. But just like these warriors were ready behind Arjuna, your inner qualities — courage, focus, compassion, wisdom — are all lined up within you, waiting for you to lead.
When you step forward with sincerity, your entire inner army follows.
You Are Not Alone
This simple verse from the Gita is not just a roll call of names. It is a whisper from the ancient past that says:
“You are not weak. You are not alone. You have what it takes.”
In a world that constantly pushes us to doubt ourselves, this message is revolutionary. Remember your inner warriors. Let them rise. Let them lead. And when you walk into your daily battles — whether at home, at work, or in your own mind — walk in like Arjuna: with faith in your charioteer, and trust in your own strength.