Iravan fights Bhagadatta collectively with other warriors, helping the Pandavan forces to withhold Bhagadatta’s advances.
During the Kurukshetra War, the eastern ally Bhagadatta, king of Pragjyotisha, renowned for his war-elephant mastery, engaged in combat with Iravan, the son of Arjuna and the Naga princess Ulupi. Iravan, though young, was a skilled warrior trained in archery, swordplay, and destructive weapons, and had previously distinguished himself in various engagements. The duel took place amidst the chaos of elephant charges and aerial assaults, with Iravan using his agility and divine weapons to evade Bhagadatta’s devastating elephant-based attacks.Bhagadatta, mounted on his war elephant, leveraged his height, tusks, and heavy weapons to strike with overwhelming force, aiming to crush the Pandava warrior. Despite Iravan’s skill and courage, Bhagadatta’s experience and brute strength created significant pressure. The fight was intense, with Iravan delivering precise strikes and attempting to target the elephant while avoiding direct hits from Bhagadatta. Ultimately, while the fight showcased Iravan’s bravery and tactical skill, Bhagadatta’s sheer might and elephant strategy forced Iravan into retreat, demonstrating the effectiveness of specialized warriors in the war. The duel highlighted the contrast between youthful valor and seasoned mastery on the battlefield.
