Significance of Akshauhini
Akshauhini is a term from the Purana that refers to a specific military formation, often described as consisting of a large number of warriors. It encompasses various types of soldiers, including foot-soldiers, horses, elephants, and chariots. This formation is significant in the context of battles involving the Pandavas and Kauravas, with figures like Duryodhana, Bhanda, Salya, and Drona associated with commanding these large military divisions. The term highlights the magnitude and organization of ancient armies in epic battles.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Akshauhini'
Akshauhini in Hinduism is interpreted as a vast military formation of thousands of warriors, utilized by various leaders, symbolizing the scale and strategic organization of ancient battalions, notably during conflicts like those between Pandavas and Kauravas.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A term for a large battle formation or army, each warrior leading their respective group into battle.[1] (2) A specific military formation; in the context, it refers to the organized forces of the Pandavas.[2] (3) A military formation consisting of a large number of warriors, which Salya is the master of.[3] (4) A term denoting a specific military formation consisting of an enormous number of warriors, typically used to describe Drona's battalion.[4] (5) A military formation typically comprising thousands of warriors, referred to in the context of the forces engaged in battle.[5]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) A military unit consisting of various soldiers that moves collectively into battle.[6] (2) A specific military unit, mentioned as being dispatched to the battlefield.[7] (3) Units of troops used by the Daityas, often totaling ten, which were employed for various tactical maneuvers and to fortify defenses.[8] (4) Military divisions or formations that Bhanda commands, emphasizing his military might.[9]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) A traditional military formation or unit; in the text, each son of Karttavirya is described as having one, indicating their significant military strength.[10] (2) Large divisions of armies consisting of various types of soldiers, including foot-soldiers, horses, elephants, and chariots.[11]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A term used to describe a large formation of soldiers, signifying the scale of the armies involved in the battle.[12]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A military formation consisting of a large division of troops, which Paundraka had when confronting Krishna.[13]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Units of the army, each comprising a large number of soldiers, indicating the magnitude of Ravana's force.[14]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) Huge armies composed of formidable Daityas who are a source of significant strength and power.[15]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) A traditional unit of measure for a large military force, used here to describe Jarasandha's army.[16]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Akshauhinis are military formations mentioned as units led by various warriors in this context.[17] (2) Akshauhini is a unit of army formation in ancient texts, used to describe the forces led by each warrior.[18] (3) A term referring to the military divisions that Jarasandha brought with him to fight.[19]
From: Nitiprakasika (Critical Analysis)
(1) Different divisions of the army that report to the Commander-in-chief and whose commanders also need to be tested for bravery and loyalty.[20] (2) The largest unit described, considered a complete army, which is 21870 times the size of anikini.[21]