Pradyumna Rebukes Daruki for Retreating from Battle
Pradyumna is struck unconscious by Shalva's arrows in battle. His charioteer Daruki, fearing for his master's life, drives him away from the field. When Pradyumna regains consciousness and finds himself retreating, he demands an explanation — and what he hears does not satisfy him.
When Pradyumna, supreme among strong ones, was struck down by Shalva's arrows, the Vrishni army lost its calm and its resolution. Lamentations arose among the Vrishnis and the Andhakas. The enemies were delighted at Pradyumna's fall.
His charioteer Daruki saw his master lose consciousness. He was a trained suta (charioteer), and he knew his duty. He used his swift horses to take Pradyumna away from the field of battle.
The chariot had not gone far when Pradyumna regained his senses.
He grasped his bow and spoke. "O Souti! What have you done? Why are you turning back? This is not the dharma of Vrishni warriors in battle. Have you lost your senses at the sight of Shalva in that great battle? Are you unhappy on witnessing that battle? Tell me exactly."
Daruki replied, "O son of Janardana! I am not bewildered. Nor am I overcome with fear. But I think that you will find Shalva too difficult to overcome. I am therefore retreating slowly. This evil one is powerful. When a warrior is knocked unconscious on the chariot, it is the charioteer's duty to protect him. Your life must always be protected by me, just as you always protect me. Thinking that a warrior must always be protected, I am taking you away. O mighty-armed one! You are alone. The danavas (demons) are many. O Rukmini's son! Thinking that this is not an equal battle, I am taking you away."
Pradyumna listened. Then he spoke again — and this time his voice carried something harder than disappointment. Aranyaka Parva, Chapter 316