Pasupatastra Parva

Let me just adress a few misconceptions about the Pasupatastra weapon among the Mahabharata debaters. I will debunk and prove them wrong over here. Some comedians have spread countless false claims.

• Misconception number 1 - The Pasupatastra was used to kill Jayadratha.
• According to the facts Jayadratha was slain by a weapon Arjuna obtained from Indra not Shiva, so unless you wanna make a claim like Indra had Pasupata then your points of Jayadratha being slain by Shiva's Pasupata are moot, Arjuna did not use Pasupata he used a Indrastra.

Screenshot

Analysis: Read this post further and you will find a description of the Pasupata having one thousand eyes, and arms, it is nothing like the weapon used for the death of Jayadrath.

• Misconception number 2 - Karna also had the Pasupatastra
• Arguments by Karna fans
• Some quote from section 60 where Krishna mentions the weapon Pasupata in the same line that he mentions Karna's name.

Quote:

Yonder Karna urges forward the mighty car-warriors of the Dhartarashtras towards the son of Pritha with the weapons called Sthunakarna, Indrasjaha and Pasupata, and with clubs and other weapons.

Source: http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/m08/m08060.htm

• Krishna was talking about Arjuna's weapons not Karna's.
• Those weapons have always been associated with Arjuna.

Quote:

As a blazing fire consumeth a forest in the hot season, so, exhibiting diverse courses, I will hurl those great weapons called Sthur-karna, Pasupata, and Brahma, and all those that Sakra gave me, all of which are endued with fierce impetuosity.

Source: http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/m05/m05048.htm

Karna claims Arjuna had these weapons.

Quote:

The weapons called Aindra, Pasupata, Brahma, and Sthunakarna, applied by Arjuna, will, O Madhava, be the mantras (of that sacrifice).

Source: http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/m05/m05141.htm

• Karna would not use such a dangerous weapon in the vicinity of Duryodhana, Duhsasana (who was still alive), and himself (he cared about his own life alot thus his constant nature of fleeing the battlefield).

The danger of the Pasupata:

But, O son of Pritha, this weapon should not be hurled without adequate cause; for if hurled at any foe of little might it may destroy the whole universe. In the three worlds with all their mobile and immobile creatures, there is none who is incapable of being slain by this weapon.

Analysis: Such a weapon with the potential of destroying the whole universe would not be shot by the sinless danveer karna. Second of all this weapon (the one karna used) did not even kill anyone when it was used by Karna, so how could it be the same Pasupata? No it is clearly a different Pasupata.

Source: http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/m03/m03040.htm

• A quote from karna Parva that says Karna got all the weapons of Parshuram, who got them all from shiva.
• Debunk

1. That quote was just Duryodhana's opinion. It need not be true as the same Duryodhana always contradicts himself.
2. The term "all" is usually exaggerated in the Mahabharata.

• Misconception number 3 - Drona had the Pasupatastra
• Quotes used to prove that he had it
• Drona got all the weapons of Parshurama

Quote:

Drona about this time heard that (the great Brahmana hero) Rama (on the eve of his retiring into the weeds) was resolved to give away all his wealth. Hearing this, the son of Bharadwaja repaired unto Rama who was about to retire into the woods and addressing him, said, 'O best of Brahmanas, know me to be Drona who hath come to thee to obtain thy wealth.' Rama replied, saying, 'I have given away everything. All that I now have is this body of mine and my weapons. O Brahmana, thou mayest ask of me one of these two, either my body or my weapons.' Then Drona said, 'It behoveth thee, sir, to give me all thy weapons together with (the mysteries of) their use and withdrawal.'

Analysis: This quote is cherry picked, and is used by people who believe their readers won't read all the content in the source they linked, so it is very easy to get them confused. Regardless their is no evidence that Parshuram even had the Pasupata.

Source: http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/m01/m01169.htm

• Drona used a weapon called "Pasupata" in Drona Parva on the 15th day.

Quote:

When Drona failed to gain any ascendency over the son of Pandu, the son of Bharadwaja, that warrior acquainted with the course of all weapons, invoked into existence the Aindra, the Pasupata, the Tvashtra, the Vayavya, and the Yamya weapons. As soon as those weapons, issued from Drona's bow, Dhananjaya destroyed them quickly. When his weapons were thus duly destroyed by Arjuna with his own weapons, Drona shrouded the son of Pandu with the mightiest of celestial weapons.

Analysis: Their is a huge problem with this because this quote states that their were even mightier weapons than the Pasupata, but that is not logical because it contradicts what Shiva said to Arjuna and what was stated in Anusasana Parva. Not only that but Arjuna destroyed this weapon of Drona with ease despite it being combined with other like Tvashtrastra, Vayavyastra, Aindrastra, Yamyastra etc. So then why would Shiva state that the Pasupatastra is capable of nuetralizing every other weapon including Narayanastra & Brahmastra?

Source: http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/m07/m07185.htm

• Debunking these quotes
• For the first quote:

Quote from the same section:

"The Brahmana continued, 'Then Rama of Bhrigu's race, saying, 'So be it,' gave all his weapons unto Drona, who obtaining them regarded himself as crowned with success. Drona obtaining from Rama the most exalted of all weapons, called the Brahma weapon, became exceedingly glad and acquired a decided superiority over all men.

Analysis: Clearly Drona only got one weapon the Brahmastra, or he just got weapons of lord Brahma from Parshuram. The quote may say all his weapons but it only describes one weapon and that is the Brahmastra.

Source: http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/m01/m01169.htm

More over whenever Drona teaches Arjuna weapons he only talks about weapons he had himself, he learned from his father Bharadwaja or weapons that he acquired from the rishi Agnivesha. He never ocne mentions Parshuram during the entire description of training of Kuru princes.

• For the second we have to do logical analysis.
• Here is the description of the Pasupata by Shiva

Quote:

Bhava replied, 'O powerful one. I will give to thee that favourite weapon of mine called the Pasuputa. O son of Pandu, thou art capable of holding, hurling, and withdrawing it. Neither the chief himself of the gods, nor Yama, nor the king of the Yakshas, nor Varuna, nor Vayu, knoweth it. How could men know anything of it? But, O son of Pritha, this weapon should not be hurled without adequate cause; for if hurled at any foe of little might it may destroy the whole universe. In the three worlds with all their mobile and immobile creatures, there is none who is incapable of being slain by this weapon.

Analysis: Now ask yourselves, does this weapon look anything like the weapon that Drona used on Arjuna? No. Would Drona use a weapon that was capable of destroying the whole universe in a war where his own men/troops were also fighting? No. If no one was capable of surviving agaisnt this weapon, then how did Arjuna survive? IF YOU BELIEVE THAT DRONA USED THE PASUPATA THEN YOU HAVE TO BELIEVE THAT ARJUNA DESTROYED DRONA'S PASUPATA. The Pasupata was also stated to be able to kill Vishnu and Brahma, so is Arjuna better than Brahma & Vishnu now? Could Drona use his pasupata and kill them?

Source: http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/m03/m03040.htm

• Misconception number 4 - Raudrastra and Pasupatastra are the same weapons.
• No they are not Pasupatastra & Rudrastra are entirely different, Raudrastra is a minimized version, it is a poor man's Pasupata.
• Description of Raudrastra

Quote:

I fixed that mighty weapon which, celebrated under the name of Raudra, is the destroyer of all foes. Then I beheld a male person having three heads, nine eyes, three faces, and six arms. And his hair was flaming like fire or the sun. And, O slayer of foes, for his dress, he had mighty serpents, putting out their tongues. And saying, O best of the Bharatas, the dreadful and eternal Raudra, I being free from fear, set it on the Gandiva; and, bowing unto the three-eyed Sarva of immeasurable energy, let go (the weapon), with the object of vanquishing those foremost of the Danavas, O Bharata.

Analysis: 3 Heads, 9 Eyes, 3 Faces & 6 Arms. Their are some similarities between the Pasupata and the Raudra weapons but it's obvious that Pasupata is one up of Raudra, it is over a hundred times deadlier than the Raudrastra. If it had 3 heads than Pasupata was decribed to have a 1000 heads, this shows the vast difference between them.

Source: http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/m03/m03172.htm

• Description of Pasupata

Quote:

Verily, that shaft was the excellent Pasupata that mighty and terrible weapon, which is without a second, indescribable for its power, and capable of striking every creature with fear. Of vast proportions, it seemed to constantly vomit sparks of fire. Possessed of one foot, of large teeth, and a thousand heads and thousand Stomachs, it has a thousand arms, a thousand tongues, and a thousand eyes. Indeed, it seemed to continually vomit fire. O thou of mighty arms, that weapon is superior to the Brahma, the Narayana, the Aindra, the Agneya, and the Varuna weapons. Verily, it is capable of neutralising every other weapon in the universe.

Analysis: 1000 Heads, 1000 Eyes, 1000 Stomachs, 1000 Tongues & 1000 Arms. This weapon does not look anything like the one Karna shot.

Source: http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/m13/m13a014.htm

Shiva was called Pasupati (he was named after the pasupata).

Quote:

"And they said, The festival of Pasupati (Siva) hath commenced in the town of Varanavata."

Analysis: This is evidence of Shiva's second name, so therefore many of his weapons would have the name of "Pasupat" in them.

Source: http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/m01/m01146.htm

Over here shiva is called Pasupati again.

Quote:

The weapons appertaining to Agni, Varuna, Soma, Vayu, and Vishnu, as also those appertaining to Indra, Pasupati, and Paramesthi, and those of Prajapati, Dhatri, Tashtri, Savitri, and Vivaswat, all these are known to Dhananjaya alone in this world of men!

Source: http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/m06/m06123.htm
Misconception number 5 - "Rama countered the Pasupata in Ramayana's Yuddha kanda" LOL Shri Ram never countered such a weapon.
Here is the quote provided by some fans:

दुरवापं महच्छूलं रुद्रदत्तं भयंकरम् | जाज्वल्यमानमाकाशे संहारास्त्रमिवापरम् || ६-७९-३२ यं दृष्ट्वा देवताः सर्वा भयार्ता विद्रुता दिशः | 32. mahat shuulam = (He took) that great spike; yam dR^iShTvaa = by seeing which; sarvaaH devataaH = all the godheads; bhayaartaaH = were afflicted with fear; vidrutaah = and fled; dishaH = to different directions; duravaapam = which was difficult to be obtained; rudradattam = which was gifted by Rudra; one of the eight forms of Shiva the lord of dissolution; bhayamkaram = which was terrible; jaajvalyamaanam = which flamed violently; aakaasho = in the sky; aparam samhaaraastram iva = like another weapon of destruction. 

That great spike, which was difficult to be obtained, was gifted to him by Rudra, one of the eight forms of Shiva the Lord of Dissolution. That terrible spike, which flamed violently in the sky, looked like another new weapon of destruction of the world. On seeing it, all the godheads were afflicted with fear and fled to different quarters.

Source: http://www.valmikiramayan.net/utf8/yuddha/sarga79/yuddha_79_frame.htm
Debunking the claim of this being pasupata:
The sanskrit (that gets translated into English thus the = sign) says that it is Rudra not Shiva. Rudra is not Shiva, Rudra & Shiva are different beings.

over here "The Rudras" is mentioned separately from "Shiva his vichakra,39" so they're not the same person. And the weapon itself was described as a spike, that is the weapon Makaraksha used a SPIKE clearly not the Pasupata of Shiva.

Incidents where Arjuna succeeded in doing what Karna failed to.

Everything will be proven from bori's critical edition, and kmg mahabharata.

1) Defending his chariot from the Gandharvas.

Quote:

Just as the gandharvas had shattered the chariots of Karna and the sons of Dhritarashtra into a hundred pieces, they attempted to do it again. O king! Hundreds of gandharvas attacked them in that battle and the tigers among men repulsed them with many showers of arrows. Repulsed by showers of arrows in all the directions, those travellers of the sky could not approach near the sons of Pandu.

Analysis: It says the sons of Pandu, and the ones that were fighting were Arjuna, Bhima, Nakula, Sahadeva. So Arjuna is among those whose chariots were targeted. Arjuna repulsed the gandharvas, karna could not. It's clearly also written that the same technique the Gandharvas used on Karna and broke karna's chariot was attempted again and reused against the Pandavas. Why does Arjuna always succeed where karna fails?

Source: Mahabharata section 531(234)

• The chariot Arjuna used during the Gandharva war
• First description

Quote:

Let Arjuna, you, and the brave and invincible twins free Dhritarashtra’s son, Suyodhana, from captivity. O tigers among men! These chariots are stocked with all the weapons. They have golden flags and are driven by Indrasena47 and the other charioteers. O sons!48 Ride them and fight the gandharvas in battle. Ceaselessly endeavour to free Suyodhana.

Analysis: His driver was either Indrasena (or one of his accomplices) and not someone like krishna, daruka etc. And of course... no "divine" chariot.

Source: Aranya Parva Section 232

• Second description

Quote:

They ascended chariots, all of which had pennants. With bows and arrows in their hands, the Pandavas blazed like the fire. Those chariots were equipped well and were yoked to swift steeds. Using those chariots, those tigers travelled fast. On seeing the maharatha sons of Pandu advance, the army of the Kouravas let out a great roar.

Analysis: The chariots were equipped well with weapons and yoked on to fast horses, big deal, this is the same case with most chariots. They went to go fight a war to save the Kaurava clan.

Source: Vana Parva Section 233

• And here is the screenshot from Bori's critical edition, for proof of gandharvas defeating karna.
  

2) Passing the criteria to be worthy for the weapons of Brahma.

• Karna being considered unworthy.

Quote:

Karna secretly went to Drona and spoke these words. ‘I wish to know about brahmastra and the secrets of releasing and withdrawing it. It is my view that I should become Arjuna’s equal in battle. It is certain that the affection you bear towards your disciples is equal to what you bear towards your son. Because of your favours, make me accomplished and skilled in the use of weapons.’ Drona was partial towards Phalguna. He also knew about Karna’s wickedness. Having been thus addressed by Karna, he replied, ‘The brahmastra can only be known by a brahmana who is observant of the vows, or by a kshatriya who has performed austerities, and by no one else.’ Having been thus addressed by the best of the Angirasa lineage, he honoured him and took his leave.

Analysis: Many people only look at one side (aka the whole "partial towards Phalguna" excerpt). But they all seem to miss ninety (90) percent (%) of the other content in this paragraph. Which is detailed with other more professional and believabel reasons on why Drona deemed Karna unworthy for such weapons of Brahma. A Kshatriya who performs austerities (at that point in time Karna had not performed any austerities, he did later on with parshuram). A Brahmana who's observant of the vows (Karna was no Brahmin). Karna's wickedness, he proves how he was wicked and was born to provoke a war like Kurukshetra.

Source: Santi Parva Section 2

• Arjuna being considered worthy for it.

Quote:

Bharadvaja’s son told the great-souled maharatha, “O mighty-armed one! Receive this invincible and supreme weapon, named brahmashira, with the knowledge of releasing it and withdrawing it. You must never use it against human beings. If it is used against an enemy whose energy is inferior, it will burn up the entire universe. O son! It is said that there is nothing superior to this weapon in the three worlds. Therefore, preserve it carefully and listen to my words. O brave one! If a superhuman enemy ever fights with you, use this weapon to kill him in battle.”

Analysis: Arjuna always proved his worth and capability before boasting unlike karna.

Source: Adi Parva Section 123

3) Stringing the bow of Draupadi.

• Karna's failure
• Participation

Quote:

‘Dhrishtadyumna said, “Duryodhana, Durvisaha, Durmukha, Dushpradharshana, Vivimshati, Vikarna, Saha, Duhshasana, Sama, Yuyutsu, Vatavega, Bhimavegadhara, Ugrayudha, Balaki, Kanakayu, Virochana, Sukundula, Chitrasena, Suvarcha, Kanakadhvaja, Nandaka, Bahushali, Kunduja and Vikata—these and others are the immensely powerful sons of Dhritarashtra. These warriors have come with Karna for your hand.

Analysis: You can read how Karna is mentioned as a part from the kauravas, it was separate and dristadyumna claimed he will participate.

Source: Adi parva Section 177

• Passage showing his failure.

Quote:

Then, one after another, those kings exhibited their valour for Krishna. But the bow was so strong that with all their strength, they could not string it. The firm wood of the bow recoiled and flung those brave rulers of men on the ground. They failed in their desire and could be seen on the ground, miserable and broken in spirit. That firm bow caused them pain and shattered their bracelets and earrings. Having lost hopes of obtaining Krishna, that assembly of kings was crestfallen. In that assembly, those kings who boasted of noble birth then became objects of derision.

Analysis:

It says all kings, and karna was clearly a king, his kingdom was Anga.

Source: Adi Parva Section 178

• Spectators claim he failed.

Quote:

Others among them, who lived by their wisdom and were wise, told each other, “O Brahmanas! If Kshatriyas like Karna and Shalya, who are famous in the world, have great strength and are well versed in Dhanur Veda,22 could not string the bow, how can this weakling Brahmana, with no knowledge of weapons, succeed?

Analysis: Their was only one Karna that was fmaous in the world and compared to Shalya, and that is Radha's son Karna. Using the word "Kshatriya" he was still a Kshatriya based on his life and the logic of Bhrigu and his adopted lineage. Sutas are a mixed caste of Ksatriyas & Brahmins.

Source: Adi Parva Section 179

• Arjuna's success

Quote:

Arjuna came to where the bow was and stood there like a stationary mountain. Circumambulating the bow in accordance with the rites, the scorcher of enemies bowed his head to the bow and joyously grasped it. In the twinkling of an eye, he strung the bow and grasped the five arrows.

Analysis: At last we see that their is only one real man in the sabha of that swayamvar. Arjuna was a excellent warrior.

Source: Adi Parva Section 179

4) Slaying a million Gandharvas, karna could not even kill one hundred.

Quote:

In that war, insolent about his strength, Arjuna used his agneya weapon to send a million gandharvas to Yama’s abode. O king!

Analysis: Arjuna may have used his agneyastra, but every warrior should remember the golden rule of war, "minimize your enemies advantages and your disadvantages, while at the same time maximizing your advantages and your enemies disadvantages." A warrior is supposed to use every tool at his disposal. And even when Karna used astras he failed to even kill 1/10th of a million enemies. So he is not even one tenth the warrior that Arjuna is.

Source: Mahabharata section 531(234)

5) Karna's guru Parasurama praised Arjuna as being better than Duryodhana. This was close to the last days of Karna's life.

Quote:

Therefore, discard your vanity and go to Dhananjaya82 before a weapon has been affixed to Gandiva, the best of bows. He possesses Kakudika, Shuka, Naka, Akshisamtarjana, Santana, Nartana, Ghora and Ajyamodaka as the eighth.83 All men who are pierced by these confront their death, or move around insane, or lose their senses and become unconscious, or go to sleep, or jump around, or vomit, or urinate, or incessantly cry and laugh.

Analysis: Parasurama called Gandiva the best bow (even better than his Vijaya). Karna never even made eye contact with parshuram in the sabha. When his own guru praised Arjuna what did Karna do? The fact that Parasurama told Karna's leader (Duryodhana) to surrender to Arjuna is enough evidence for Parasuram's opinion, he considers Arjuna superior to them (Karna and Duryodhana).

Source: Udyoga Parva Section 94

6) Defeating warriors with impenetrable armour.

• Karna's expedition against such warriors
• Abhimanyu
• Description of Abhimanyu's armor

Quote:

The preceptor smiled and spoke gently to Karna. ‘His armour is impenetrable. He is young, swift and valiant. His father has been instructed by me on the art of donning armour. It is certain that this destroyer of enemy cities knows everything about that.113

Analysis: Abhimanyu's armor may have been impenetrable but it did not cover his whole entire body, so why didn't karna just target the arms, head, neck, fingers of Abhimanyu?

Source: Drona Parva Section 47

• Karna's fight with Abhimanyu

Quote:

The powerful one was Rama’s71 disciple and was supreme among those who possessed knowledge of weapons. In that battle, he oppressed Abhimanyu, whom enemies found invincible. He was afflicted by Radheya’s shower of weapons. But in that battle, Subhadra’s son did not waver. He was like an immortal. Arjuna’s son used sharp, broad-headed and straight-tufted arrows that had been sharpened on stone to sever the bows of the heroes and afflicted Karna. His standard and bow were severed and fell down on the ground. On seeing that Karna was confronting a hardship, Karna’s younger brother stretched his firm bow and quickly advanced against Subhadra’s son.

Analysis: The result is that Abhimanyu tooled Karna with ease. Karna could not even scratch Abhimanyu, let alone injure him, none of Karna's attacks succeeded in even moving Abhimanyu. Karna could not wound any warrior, he always needed back up. Because wolves only hunt in packs.

Source: Drona Parva Section 39

• Arjuna
• Description of his armor

Quote:

Vasudeva is the charioteer and Dhananjaya is the warrior. The bow is the divine Gandiva and the horses have the speed of the wind. The divine armour is impenetrable. The great quivers are inexhaustible.

Analysis: Bhisma says Arjuna's armor is not only "divine" but also "impenetrable".

Source: Udyoga Parva Section 166

• Karna's encounter with Arjuna

Quote:

Extremely enraged, the powerful and valiant one pierced him on the forefront of his left arm with another arrow and seemed to be laughing. Having been pierced with great force, the bow fell down from his hand. But in an instant, the immensely strong one125 picked up another bow and displaying the lightness of his hands, shrouded Phalguna with a storm of arrows. O descendant of the Bharata lineage! The son of a suta released a shower of arrows. Dhananjaya smiled and countered that shower of arrows. O king! They showered down arrows at each other. Those great archers enveloped each other, wishing to outdo each other’s deeds. In that battle, there was a wonderful encounter between Karna and Pandava. They were angry, like wild elephants driven by desire.126 On beholding Karna’s prowess, Partha, the great archer, quickly severed the bow from his hand. With four broad-headed arrows, he dispatched his horses to Yama’s abode. The scorcher of enemies severed his charioteer’s head from his body. His bow was severed. His horses were slain. His charioteer was killed. Partha, Pandu’s descendant, pierced him with four arrows. With his horses slain, that bull among men swiftly got down from his chariot. Afflicted by those arrows, he quickly climbed onto Kripa’s chariot.

Analysis: This is the fight scene of Arjuna vs Karna at night time.

Source: Drona Parva Section 134

• Arjuna's expedition against such warriors
• Karna (Swayamvara Parva)

Quote:

Through my preceptor’s grace, I have become skilled in the use of brahma and paurandara39 weapons. O warrior! Wait for a bit. I stand here today, to vanquish you in battle.” At these words, Radheya Karna withdrew from the battle, because the maharatha thought that Brahmana strength was invincible.

Analysis: He literally says that he was their only to vanquish and defeat karna in a battle. But what was karna's reaction after that to Arjuna's words? He fled, gave up, and in his mind he believed the Brahmin Arjuna to be invincible.

Source: Adi Parva Section 181

• It is debatable whether Karna had the kavacha kundala at this point in his life or not, because some chapters say Karna gained the name "Karna" only after he donated the armour/ear-rings, others say he gained the name "Vaikartana" which is more believable.
• Duryodhana (on the 14th day)
• Arjuna's victory against him

Quote:

At this, Partha became enraged in that battle and licked the corners of his mouth. He did not see any part of the body that was not protected by the armour. He released some well-directed and sharp arrows that were like death. These killed his134 horses and the two charioteers who guarded his flanks.135 The valiant Savyasachi severed his colourful bow, the leather guards on his hands and shattered his chariot into fragments. With sharp arrows, he deprived Duryodhana of his chariot. Arjuna then pierced both his palms. On seeing that the supreme archer was in such great difficulty and was afflicted by Dhananjaya’s arrows, many rushed there to save him.

Analysis: Instead of attacking Duryodhana, Arjuna chose to attack his weapons. This was a much better move. Arjuna even attacke dthe open spot (duryodhan's plams) that were not protected. People went over their to rescue Duryodhana, this can be labelled as a defeat of Duryodhana.

Source: Drona Parva Section 78

• Proof of his armour

Quote:

‘O Krishna! It is my view that Dhritarashtra’s son has sought refuge with Drona and he has fastened this weapon, so that the weapons are unsuccessful. O Krishna! This armour possesses the essence of the three worlds. Drona alone knows this. And I have learnt it from that excellent one. My arrows are incapable of penetrating this armour. O Govinda! Maghavan himself cannot shatter it with his vajra. O Krishna! Knowing this, why are you trying to confuse me? O Keshava! You know everything that goes on in the three worlds. You know everything about what will happen in the future. O Madhusudana! No one else knows it as well as you do. O Krishna! This Duryodhana has been prepared by Drona and is stationed fearlessly in this battle, having donned the armour. O Madhava! But he does not know something about the appropriate course of action. He has only donned the armour like a woman. O Janardana! Witness the valour of my arms and my bow. I will defeat Kouravya, although he is protected by the armour. The lord of the gods gave this radiant armour to Angiras. The lord of the gods again gave me the armour, with the understanding that goes with it.132 Even if this armour is divine and even if it has been created by Brahma himself, the evil-minded one will be pierced by my arrows today and will not be protected by it.’

Analysis: Arjuna himself gave the description of Duryodhana's armor and this is authentic because Drona himself put the armor on Duryodhana's body as shown in the previous sections of Drona Parva.

Source: Drona Parva Section 78

7) Arjuna creates a mountain of corpses

Quote:

On hearing these words of his, I unleashed the vajra weapon, the vajra that is loved by the king of the gods. I resorted to an immobile spot and invoked Gandiva with the mantra. I discharged sharp iron arrows that had the force of the vajra. Having been discharged from the vajra, those arrows became like the vajra themselves. They penetrated all the maya of the nivatakavachas. Struck by the vajras, those danavas clung to one another and fell down on the ground, like mountains. The arrows hunted out the danavas who had entered the interiors of the earth and had seized the horses and the chariot, and dispatched them to Yama’s abode. That place was littered with the corpses of mountainous nivatakavachas, as if strewn with mountains.

Analysis: Arjuna created a mountain of corpses and Karna (no matter how many people he killed had never ever created even one mountain of corpses in his one hundred seven year old life).

Source: Vana Parva Section 169

• Their were 30 million demons that Arjuna killed

Quote:

The danavas named nivatakavachas are my enemies. They live in an inaccessible spot, along the shores of the ocean. They are thirty million in number and they are identical in form, strength and radiance. O Kounteya! Destroy them there. That will be the preceptor’s fee.’

Analysis: Indra says they number thirty million, so Arjuna had to fight against that many people.

Source: Aranya Parva Section 165

8) Having the bow of Shiva.

• Gandiva (Arjuna's bow) was used by Shiva.

Quote:

Worshipped ever by the gods, the Danavas and the Gandharvas and variegated with excellent colours, this large and smooth bow is without a knot or stain anywhere. Shiva held it first for a thousand years. Afterwards Prajapati held it for five hundred and three years. After that Sakra, for five and eighty years. And then Soma held it for five hundred years. And after that Varuna held it for a hundred years.

Analysis: Shiva was a wielder of the Gandiva, not the vijaya.

Source: http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/m04/m04043.htm

• Vijaya (Karna's bow) was Indra's not Shiva's.

Quote:

My bow, called Vijaya, is the foremost of all weapons (of its kind). Desirous of doing what was agreeable (to Indra), it was made by Vishakarman (the celestial artificer) for Indra.

Analysis: Why is karna trying to copy what Arjuna's father (Indra) does?

Source: http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/m08/m08031.htm

9) Conquering Achichatra (part of panchal), which Karna could not.

• Proof Karna was apart of the Drupad war.
• He was a disciple of Drona.

Quote:

Other princes also came to Drona, supreme among Brahmanas, to learn the use of arms—the Vrishnis, the Andhakas, kings from many countries and Radheya,344 the son of the suta. They made Drona their preceptor. The suta’s son was envious of Partha and always competed with him.

Analysis: Here Karna is mentioned as Radheya (son of Radha) and the suta's son. Proving that he made Drona his guru. Just like Ekalavya did.

Source: Adi Parva Section 122

• Drona asked all of his disciples to fight Drupad.

Quote:

‘O ruler of the earth! One day, Drona the preceptor assembled his pupils together and asked all of them for his fee.31 “Capture Drupada, the king of Panchala, in a raid and bring him here to me. O fortunate ones! That will be my greatest dakshina.” Agreeing, all of them armed themselves with weapons and quickly climbed into their chariots and set out, accompanied by Drona, in order to pay the preceptor’s fee.

Analysis: The text clearly says that Drona asked "all" of his pupils to go after Drupada.

Source: Adi Parva Section 128

• Proof Arjuna was the one who performed the best.

Quote:

O king! Drona lived in Ahichhatra, which had towns and a countryside, and was won in battle by Partha and handed over to him.

Analysis: This is from the same section that describes the capture of Drupada.

Source: Adi Parva Section 128

Satyaki's achievements in the Mahabharata.

In this post i will not be talking about Satyaki's defeates, i will only be talking about victories and feats, resisting, disarming, sparing and defeating his opponents. But any of the victories of Satyaki that i left out or like him rescuing a few of his comrades are left out of this post because they irrelevant in debates when you pit Satyaki up against warriors like Bhisma, Drona, Karna, Aswathama, Bhagadatta, Bhima, Abhimanyu, Ghatotkaca, Arjuna etc.

[this image fits Satyaki's description in the epic]

By the way this is all going to be according to the critical edition by BORI CE. I honestly didn't believe that i would be able to finish this post today... but when Dharma is one's side, then anything is possible.

• Bhishma Parva
• Satyaki defeated Bhisma

Quote:

Desiring to do that which would bring pleasure to Bhima, Satyaki used his arrows to swiftly bring down the aged Kuru’s charioteer. When his charioteer was killed, Bhishma, supreme among charioteers, was borne away from the field of battle by horses that were as fleet as the wind. O king! When the one who is great in his vows was thus carried away, Bhimasena blazed, like a fire consuming dry grass.

Analysis: Bhisma failed to reign over his horses so he was defeated by Satyaki. Bhisma as a great warrior should have been able to protect charioteer (driver) but could not, and thus he was forced to flee the battlefield. Fleeing is a defeat.

Source: Bhishma Parva Section 50

• Bhisma defeated Parasurama

Quote:

In that field of battle, I then withdrew the weapon prasvapan. In that battle, in accordance with the prescription, I readied the blazing brahmastra.60 O prince! On seeing that the weapon had been withdrawn, Rama was enraged. He suddenly raised his voice and spoke these words. ‘I have been defeated by the extremely evil-minded Bhishma.’61 Then Jamadagni’s son saw his father, and his father, and his father also.62

Analysis: Clearly he himself accepted his defeat, so those who say parasurama did not lose to Bhisma are liars who cannot accept a fact thrown at them no matter how much evidence is given.

Source: Udyoga Parva Section 186

• Parshuram was in the Pandava's Rajasuya Yajna accepting the rule of Yudhishthira.

Quote:

Just as the saptarshis approach the great Indra, lord of the gods, in heaven, with Jamadagni’s son,95 the great-souled ones, learned in the Vedas and the mantras, came with large quantities of gifts.

Analysis: So even the sixth (6th) avatar of lord Vishnu, accepted the Pandava's supremacy. He (Parshuram) paid/payed tribute to the Pandavas, Yudhishthira was his king.

Source: Sabha Parva section 49

• So for all Parasurama fans, accept the fact that Satyaki was better than Parshuram.

Bhisma was being merciful to Parshuram, his ancestors knew that Parshurama lost.

Quote:

O son! You have fought enough with Bhishma. You have been defeated. O mighty-armed one! Withdraw from the field of battle. O fortunate one! Let there be an end to wielding the bow. O unassailable one! O Bhargava! Give it up and practise austerities. Bhishma is Shantanu’s son and he has been restrained by all the gods. They have asked him to withdraw from the battle. They have repeatedly told him, “Do not fight with Rama, your preceptor. O extender of the Kuru lineage! It is not proper for you to defeat Rama in battle.

Analysis: This is just more further proof of Parshuram's defeat. Parshuram's ancestors told him to give up fighting because he will never be able to defeat Bhisma.
Source: Udyoga Parva Section 186

• Satyaki killed soldiers of Duryodhana

Quote:

That is the reason you are pardoning them this act of killing my soldiers. O king! You should have told me earlier, before this encounter commenced, that you would not fight in a battle with the Pandavas, or with Parshata, or with Satyaki.

Analysis: He killed many foot soldiers and yet Bhisma and Duryodhana could not stop him in doing so. Perhaps they were the personal bodygaurds/protectors of Duryodhana that were slain.

Source: Bhishma Parva Section 54

• Satyaki defeated more soldiers of Duryodhana including his kuru senapati Bhisma

Quote:

At that instant, Satyaki, the brave descendant of the Shini lineage, devoted to the truth, attacked the grandfather. He began to kill the enemy with his firm bow and made the soldiers of your son tremble. He was borne on silver steeds and unleashed arrows from his firm bow. O descendant of the Bharata lineage! Among all those on your side, there was no second one capable of withstanding him.176

Analysis: Satyaki tooled Bhisma in this fight, Bhisma did not even fight back. And in the next line a demon known as "Alambusha" has to save him (Bhisma) from Satyaki.

Source: Bhishma Parva Section 59

• Satyaki defeated Alamvusha

Quote:

Alambusa, seated on a supreme king of elephants, pierced him with sharp and terrible arrows. But Shini’s brave grandson pierced him with four arrows and advanced on his chariot. On seeing the foremost of the Vrishni lineage thus advancing, circling in the midst of the enemy, repeatedly repulsing the bulls among the Kuru lineage and roaring, no one, not even the best, was capable of withstanding him. He tormented like the midday sun. O king! With the exception of Somadatta’s son, there was no one there who was not cheerless. O descendant of the Bharata lineage! On seeing that all the charioteers on his side had been routed, Bhurishrava, Somadatta’s son, grasped a terrible and powerful bow and advanced, desiring to fight with Satyaki.

Analysis: Bulls among kuru lineage may also include Bhisma, but regardless over here atyaki clealry defeated Alambusa and Bhurisravas is desiring to stop Satyaki now. The text clearly stated no one was capable of withstanding him, only bhurishravas stands a chance.

Source: Bhishma Parva Section 59

• Satyaki defeated 10 thousand car-warriors (Rathis) in one minute

Quote:

King Duryodhana saw that he was blazing and despatched ten thousand chariots against him. But valiant Satyaki, for whom truth was valour, was a great and supreme archer. He used divine weapons to slay all of them. Having accomplished this terrible deed, he grasped his bow and confronted Bhurishrava, the extender of the deeds of the Kuru lineage, in that battle.

Analysis: Compare this to Bhisma who takes a whole day to finish ten thousand (10,000), Satyaki is so much faster. His superiority over Bhisma has already been proven.

Source: Bhishma Parva Section 70

• Satyaki defeated a Indra among the Rakshasas

Quote:

Varshneya then invoked the aindra weapon, which the illustrious Madhava had obtained from Vijaya.272 Using that weapon, he reduced the maya of rakshasas to ashes. From every direction, he showered Alambusa with terrible arrows, like the slayer of Bala273 showering rain on mountains. He was thus oppressed by the great-souled Madhava. Out of fear, the rakshasa gave up the fight with Satyaki and fled. While your warriors looked on, Shini’s descendant triumphed over the Indra among rakshasas, whom even Maghavan found difficult to defeat, and roared.

Analysis: Over here Satyaki had to fight against illusions and maya. And yet he still won, compare that to Karna and Duryodhana who failed against the illusions of Chitrasena. And the foe Satyaki defeated was too difficult for even Indra to defeat. Maghavan is another name for Indra.

Source: Bhishma Parva Section 78

• Satyaki defeated Kripa

Quote:

To accomplish a pleasant task for Pandava, Satyaki attacked him, like a tiger against an elephant, and pierced him with sharp arrows. Goutama was enraged. In return, he swiftly pierced Madhava374 in the chest with nine arrows that were tufted with the feathers of herons. Shini’s descendant became extremely angry at having been pierced. The maharatha unleashed a terrible arrow at Goutama, one capable of taking his life away. On seeing it descend with great force, as radiant as Shakra’s vajra, Drona’s son, driven by supreme rage, angrily sliced it down into two.

Analysis: So even Kripa lost to Satyaki. Kripa was said to be immortal and over here Satyaki was about to kill him, he almost killed an immortal man! But of course in the end Kripa's nephew Aswathama (Drona's son) had to save him.

Source: Bhishma Parva Section 97

• Satyaki swooned Aswathama

Quote:

The destroyer of enemies picked up another bow that was capable of bearing a great burden. O great king! He struck Drona’s son in the arms and the chest with six arrows. Having been thus pierced and wounded, he lost his senses for some time. He sat down on the floor of his chariot, using the pole of his standard for support. Having regained his senses, Drona’s powerful son angrily pierced Varshneya375 in that encounter with iron arrows.

Analysis:

Satyaki should be known as the man who made Shiva swoon.

Source: Bhishma Parva Section 97

• Satyaki defeated Aswathama

Quote:

O great king! He again unleashed a shower of arrows to envelope him, like clouds covering the sun at the end of summer. O great king! Satyaki destroyed that net of arrows and quickly covered Drona’s son with many nets of arrows. He was like the sun that had emerged from a net of clouds. Shini’s descendant, the destroyer of enemy heroes, scorched Drona’s son. The immensely strong Satyaki roared and again enveloped him with thousands of arrows. On seeing that his son was eclipsed, like the moon afflicted by Rahu, Bharadvaja’s powerful son attacked Shini’s descendant.

Analysis: Drona had to save Aswathama, the word eclipsed has synonyms like "overshadow" "outshine "exceed" "surpass" etc. All indicating Satyaki's superiority, the need to be rescued is also a defeat.

Source: Bhishma Parva Section 97

• By the way this incident was labelled as a defeat of Aswathama.

Quote:

In that great battle, he pierced him with extremely sharp arrows, desiring to rescue his son, who was being tormented by Varshneya. In that battle, having defeated the maharatha son of his preceptor, Satyaki then pierced Drona with twenty arrows that were completely made out of iron.

Analysis: So Satyaki did defeat Shiva (his incarnation is Aswathama). Drona was another perceptor of Satyaki. The son of Drona is Aswathama.
Source: Bhishma Parva Section 97

• Aswathama was an incarnation of Shiva.

Quote:

The brave and lotus-eyed Ashvatthama, of great valour, tormentor of enemies and fearful to enemy armies, was born from three parts of Mahadeva that merged into one—yama,65 kama66 and krodha.67

Analysis: This quote right here clearly states that three anshas (parts) of Shiva's soul combined to form Aswathama.

Source: Adi Parva Section 61

• Satyaki shot 1,000s arrows with ease in a short amount of time.

Quote:

Satyaki pierced Kritavarma with five iron arrows. The brave one remained stationed in the battle, releasing thousands of arrows.

Analysis: Only Bhima, Drona, and Arjuna have ever had such a fast firing rate when it comes to archery.

Source: Bhishma Parva Section 100

• Satyaki defeated Bhagadatta

Quote:

In the encounter, he angrily pierced Bhagadatta with sharp arrows. The great archer was pierced and repeatedly licked the corners of his mouth. He grasped a firm and iron javelin that was decorated with gold and lapis lazuli. It was as terrible as Yama’s staff and he hurled this towards Satyaki. It was hurled through the force of his arms. O king! On seeing it suddenly descend in the battle, Satyaki severed it into three fragments with his arrows. It fell down on the ground, like a giant meteor that has lost its brilliance. O lord of the earth! On seeing that the javelin had been destroyed, your son413 surrounded Madhava with a large number of chariots. On seeing that maharatha Varshneya had been surrounded, Duryodhana was extremely happy and spoke to all his brothers. ‘O Kouravas! Act so that the warrior Satyaki may not escape with his life. Go there with a large number of chariots. If he is killed, I think that the great army of the Pandavas will also be slain.’

Analysis: Madhava is another name for Satyaki. Clearly he vanquished Bhagadatta (the king of Pragjyotisha) over here. Because in this passage after bhagadatta is pierced and his counter weapons fail, Duryodhana sends his brothers to rescue Bhagadatta and kill Satyaki. He proved his superiority over Bhagadatta, he dominated this fight. Satyaki shattered the Bhagadatta myth over here (just like his guru Arjuna).

Source: Bhishma Parva Section 107

• Drona Parva
• Before the 14th day
• Satyaki defeated Karna

Quote:

Shini’s descendant grasped another bow that was like Indra’s weapon in its radiance. He pierced the suta’s son with sixty-four arrows and roared like a lion. With two broad-headed arrows that were released well, he severed Karna’s bow. He again pierced Karna in the arms and the chest with three arrows. Radheya was about to be submerged in the ocean that Satyaki represented. At this, Duryodhana, Drona and King Jayadratha rescued him.

Analysis: Satyaki hit Karna with 69 shafts and yet Karna just stood by and watched, this student of Parshuram lost his bow and had to be saved by a better student Drona.

Source: Drona Parva Section 31

• 14th day
• Without Krishna's chariot
• Satyaki cut off Drona's bows

Quote:

In the battle, Dasharha103 used swift and extremely firm arrows to sever Drona’s arrows and then severed the immensely radiant one’s bow too. But in the twinkling of an eye, Bharadvaja’s son grasped another bow. However, as he strung it, Satyaki swiftly severed this too. Drona again grasped another bow and stood with it in his hand. As he repeatedly strung his bow, it was again severed with sharp arrows. O Indra among kings!

Analysis: It takes skill to aim very accurately and cut off the bow of a warrior like Drona continously.

Source: Drona Parva Section 73

• Satyaki defeated Vyaghradhatta (the prince of Magadha)

Quote:

But Shini’s brave descendant showed the dexterity of his hands and countered those arrows. He used his arrows to bring down Vyaghradatta, his horses, his charioteer and his standard. O lord! On seeing that the prince, the son of Magadha, had been killed, all the Magadhas made efforts and attacked Yuyudhana from every direction.

Analysis: The Magadha dynasties were very powerful so killing one of their princes is a great feat. These are the same people that held the greatest empires in ancient india, the Guptas & the Mouryas kept their base in Magadha, their capital was Pataliputra.

Source: Drona Parva Section 82

• When Satyaki drank liquor and was on a ordinary chariot of his own.

Quote:

They blessed him. He drank madhuparka211 and kailavata liquor.212 His eyes were red and his eyes were unsteady because of the intoxication. The brave one touched the brass and his joy increased.213 His energy doubled and he blazed like a fire.

Analysis: Satyaki was described as a drunk on the fourteenth day, in the middle of the forteenth day while he was preparing for his biggest mission.

Source: Drona Parva Section 87

• Satyaki tools Kritavarma

Quote:

With his bow shattered, Satyaki, supreme among strong ones, picked up a javelin and used this to strike Kritavarma’s right arm. The brave Satyaki then grasped another firm bow and quickly released hundreds and thousands of arrows. He enveloped Kritavarma and his chariot. With a broad-headed arrow, he sliced down the charioteer’s head. Having been slain, Hardikya’s charioteer fell down from the great chariot. When the charioteer was slain, the horses fled at great speed.

Analysis: This not only shows Satyaki's superiority to kritavarman but also shows his diverity, his skills with the javelin/spear.

Source: Drona Parva Section 88

• Satyaki killed Jalasandha

Quote:

He angrily stretched that bow and pierced Jalasandha with an arrow. The supreme one of the Madhava lineage laughed and used two kshurapra arrows to sever Jalasandha’s arms, with their ornaments and their armlets. Those arms were like clubs and fell down from that supreme of elephants. They fell down on the ground, like two five-headed serpents falling down from a mountain. With a third kshurapra arrow, Satyaki severed his head, possessing beautiful teeth and a handsome jaw and adorned with charming earrings. When the head and arms had been cut down, the torso looked fearful and sprinkled Jalasandha’s elephant with his blood.

Analysis: Jalasandha was a son of Jarasandha and a co-king of Magadha with Sahadeva (the other son of Jarasandha).

Source: Drona Parva Section 91

• Satyaki defeated Duryodhana

Quote:

The maharatha countered the king of the Kurus with many arrows that were capable of penetrating the inner organs and was delighted. O king! Having been thus struck in the battle by the supreme arrows released by Shini’s descendant, your son, Duryodhana, suddenly fled. The archer king mounted Chitrasena’s chariot and a great lamentation arose in the world on seeing that the king was about to be devoured by Satyaki, like the moon by Rahu.

Analysis: Too much cowardice has been shown by Duryodhana and Kaurava warriors.

Source: Drona Parva Section 92

• Satyaki defeats Kritavarman

Quote:

The arrow was like Yama’s staff and he released it at Kritavarma. It penetrated his armour, which shone like the sun and was decorated with colourful gold. Having drunk his blood, it fiercely penetrated the earth. Afflicted by Satvata, he was drenched in blood. He cast aside his bow and sank down on the floor of the supreme chariot. His teeth were like that of a lion and he was infinite in his valour. But afflicted by Satyaki’s arrows, the bull among men sank down on his knees on the floor of the chariot.

Analysis: Kritavarman was the leader of the Bhoja tribe but he was clearly no match for Satyaki.

Source: Drona Parva Section 92

• Satyaki defeats Drona

Quote:

With an arrow, he brought Drona’s charioteer down on the ground. With the great-souled Drona’s charioteer slain, the horses began to run away. O king! In that battle, the radiant chariot whirled around in a thousand circles, like the sun. ‘Drona’s horses are running away. Grab them.’ These were the sounds that arose from all the princes and the kings. O king! The maharathas quickly abandoned the battle with Satyaki.

Analysis: Knowing that Satyaki or any other opponent for that matter would have taken full advantage of such a opening why did Drona fail to protect his charioteer? Was the student of Parshuram so weak and incompetent?

Source: Drona Parva Section 93

• More proof of this being Drona's defeat

Quote:

Having vanquished Drona and other foremost men on your side, with Hardikya at the forefront, the brave one of the Shini lineage laughed and spoke these words to his charioteer.

Analysis: Satyaki defeated Drona & Kritavarman.

Source: Drona Parva Section 94

• Satyaki kills Sudarsana

Quote:

Thus afflicted, the spirited one quickly released a mass of extremely sharp arrows and killed Sudarshana’s horses, roaring loudly. He released a broad-headed arrow that was like the vajra or thunder and sliced off the head of his243 charioteer. The brave one from the Shini lineage then used a kshurapra arrow to sever Sudarshana’s head. It sported earrings and was like the full moon. It possessed a radiant face and was severed from the body.

Analysis: They should send wolves to face lions.

Source: Drona Parva Section 94

• Satyaki routed the Yavanas (greeks)

Quote:

He then used extremely sharp arrows that were gold-tufted, with the feathers of vultures, to sever the heads and arms of the Yavanas. Some of those arrows penetrated the armour made out of steel and brass and passing through the bodies, penetrated the earth in every direction. In the battle, the mlecchas were slaughtered by the brave Satyaki. Hundreds of them lost their lives and fell down on the ground. The bow was drawn back to its full extent and an incessant stream of arrows was shot. He afflicted and oppressed them and killed five, six, seven and eight Yavana’s with a single arrow. O lord of the earth! Thousands of Kambojas, Shakas, Shabaras, Kiratas and Barbaras fell down and the earth was full of mire made out of flesh and blood.

Analysis: Satyaki defeated many races together over here not just the greeks (yavanas).

Source: Drona Parva Section 95

• Satyaki defeats Duryodhana again

Quote:

He used a broad-headed arrow to kill your son’s charioteer251 and bring him down on the ground from the chariot. O king! O lord of the earth! When the charioteer was killed, the horses that had the speed of the wind and the soldiers bore the chariot away from the field of battle. O descendant of the Bharata lineage! On seeing that the king’s chariot was running away, hundreds of your soldiers fled.

Analysis: I think Duryodhana should have trained better because the fruits of his training show him as a poor warrior who always loses.

Source: Drona Parva Section 96

• Satyaki defeats Duhsasana

Quote:

The general of the Trigartas then picked him up on his own chariot. O descendant of the Bharata lineage! Shini’s descendant followed him for some time. But remembering Bhimasena’s words, the mightyarmed one did not kill him. O descendant of the Bharata lineage! In the assembly hall and in everyone’s presence, Bhimasena had sworn to kill your sons in battle. O lord! O king! Thus did Satyaki vanquish Duhshasana in that encounter and quickly proceeded along Dhananjaya’s route.

Analysis: Duhsasana is the same archer that swooned Bhima, yet he lost to Satyaki.

Source: Drona Parva Section 99

• Satyaki slays Alambusa

Quote:

Shini’s grandson was as spirited and powerful as the wielder of the chakra himself.380 Though he was struck, he used four forceful arrows to kill Alambusa’s four horses. With a broad-headed arrow, he severed his charioteer’s head and used other arrows that were like the fire of destruction to sever his too. It381 was beautiful, with a face like the full moon, and was adorned with earrings. It was severed from the body. O king!

Analysis: This is a wierd incident because Alambusa death has been narrated at-least two other times in the Mahabharata.

Source: Drona Parva Section 115

• Satyaki defeated 50 Trigarta princes

Quote:

The great archers from Trigarta, their standards decorated with gold, surrounded him from all sides and he was immersed in an ocean of soldiers. They surrounded him from all sides with an army of chariots. They angrily released a storm of arrows towards that supreme archer. But in that great battle, Satyaki, with truth as his valour, single-handedly defeated fifty enemy princes who had advanced against him.

Analysis: They were all Kshatriyas and warrior princes. Vanquishing fifty of them all together at once is an insane feat.

Source: Drona Parva Section 116

• Satyaki killed one thousand kings

Quote:

O Partha! Satyaki is approaching. He has strewn the earth with the faces, as beautiful as lotuses, of a thousand kings.

Analysis: One thousand kings is more than kings than karna ever did. So Satyaki's victories are more.

Source: Drona Parva Section 116

• With krishna's chariot
• Proof of him getting the chariot later in the day.

Quote:

On seeing that Satyaki was without a chariot and Karna was attacking him with raised weapons, Madhava blew a rishabha note on his conch shell with great force.12 From the sound of that conch shell, Daruka got the message. He took that chariot, with Suparna13 decorating the standard. With Keshava’s permission, Daruka yoked the chariot, which was like the fire or the sun, and made Shini’s grandson ascend it. It could go wherever one wished and it was drawn by Sainya, Sugriva, Meghapushpa and Balahaka.14 It possessed a great speed and was decorated with gold. He ascended that chariot, which was like a celestial vehicle15 and which had been yoked.

Analysis: I don't believe that their was anything special about the chariot, because the person that was fighting, attacking and defending was Satyaki, the chariot did not shoot any weapons. Things that are called "celestial" have easily been destroyed.

Source: Drona Parva Section 122

• Satyaki defeated Karna

Quote:

Shini’s grandson, the scorcher of enemies, repeatedly pierced Karna, all over his limbs, with arrows that were completely made out of iron. With a broad-headed arrow, he brought down his charioteer from his seat on the chariot. He killed the four white horses with sharp arrows. The bull among men shattered his standard into a hundred fragments with a hundred arrows. O king! On seeing that Karna was without a chariot, your sons and the bulls among men on your side were distressed.

Analysis: Karna did not just lose all of his weapons, he was at Satyaki's mercy over here. Without support from his comrades Karna would have been in a worser condition. It's a clear defeat.

Source: Drona Parva Section 122

• Karna's description after the above incident

Quote:

Having been oppressed by Satvata’s arrows, Karna was also benumbed. O king! He ascended Duryodhana’s chariot and sighed deeply. He remembered the respect he bore towards your son, the affection since childhood and the promise that he had made about returning the kingdom to him.

Analysis: This quote is often overlooked/ignored by people, it gives us notice into some hidden facts of the past that were not shown, about karna's promise him and duryodhana's friendship since childhood. It also shows Karna's dissapointment at his own repeated failures in war.

Source: Drona Parva Section 122

• Satyaki spared Duhsasana and numerous other Kaurava brothers.

Quote:

When Karna was deprived of his chariot, your brave sons, with Duhshasana at the forefront, succumbed to Satyaki. But he did not kill them, to protect the pledge that Bhimasena had taken earlier. He deprived them of their chariots and made them senseless, but did not take their lives away from them.

Analysis: It is unknown how many of Duhsasana's brothers were supporting him, but he was not in Satyaki's league, definitely. Here he defeated karna too. Why was karna so weak?

Source: Drona Parva Section 122

• Satyaki defeated Aswathama & a hundred other Kshatriyas

Quote:

With a single bow, he defeated Drona’s son, Kritavarma, other maharathas and hundreds of bulls among the kshatriyas.

Analysis: Considering how easily Satyaki defeated Aswathama and other maharathis like this, it should be no surprise how Satyaki defeated Drona, Karna, Bhisma, Bhagadatta etc.

Source: Drona Parva Section 122

• After the 14th day
• Satyaki defeated Somadatta

Quote:

Somadatta pierced Satyaki with nine arrows and Satyaki struck the bull among the Kuru lineage with ten. Having been thus pierced in the battle by the powerful one with a firm bow, he70 became senseless and sank down on the floor of his chariot. On seeing that he had lost consciousness, Somadatta’s charioteer quickly bore the maharatha away from the field of battle.

Analysis: Satyaki defeated Soamdatta pretty easily, Somadatta was around Bhisma's age.

Source: Drona Parva Section 131

• Satyaki killed Somadatta

Quote:

With great force, Shini’s descendant shot that supreme of arrows. O descendant of the Bharata lineage! That terrible arrow quickly struck the lord and brought him down. Severely wounded by the powerful maharatha Satvata, the mighty-armed Somadatta fell down and died.

Analysis: Defeat and kill are two different things but Satyaki defeated Somadatta before killing him.

Source: Drona Parva Section 137

• Satyaki slayed Bhuri (the last son of Somadatta) the last pure blooded kuru besides Bhisma/Vahlika.

Quote:

With his bow severed, Satyaki became senseless with rage. He hurled an extremely forceful spear towards his chest. His limbs were shattered by that spear and he fell down from his supreme chariot. His limbs were red, like the one with the blazing rays in the sky.154 ‘“On seeing that the brave one had been killed in that encounter, maharatha Ashvatthama forcefully advanced towards Shini’s descendant.

Analysis: Satyaki was doing the work of yamraj by killing the officers of the Kuru army.

Source: Drona Parva Section 141

• Satyaki nearly killed Vrishasena (son of Karna)👍👌

Quote:

Karna’s armoured son191 quickly pierced Satyaki from every direction with sharp arrows. The lord Satyaki used his weapons to counter all their weapons and those of Karna. He angrily pierced Vrishasena between the breasts. O lord of the earth! Pierced by that arrow, the valiant Vrishasena lost his senses. He discarded his bow and fell down on his chariot. Karna thought that maharatha Vrishasena had been slain.

Analysis: Vrishasena even during night time could not defeat a Satyaki that was not even drunk. And Karna was assisting Vrishasena over here, but still he bit off more than he could chew.

Source: Drona Parva Section 145

• Satyaki defeated an enraged Karna 
• Karna abandoned the fight

Quote:

On hearing the clatter of the chariot and the roar of Gandiva, the son of a suta spoke these words to Duryodhana.

Analysis: He went to go talk to Duryodhana to propose a new battle plan, using treachery to kill Satyaki.

Source: Drona Parva Section 145

• What Satyaki was doing at the time that Karna was talking to Duryodhana.

Quote:

He knows that Satyaki is engaged with many bulls among the Kurus. Let many foremost ones, supreme among rathas, go there, so that Partha does not know that Satyaki has been surrounded by many.

Analysis: Many warriors of their army are fighting a lone Satyaki. At night time. So karna obviously left his support team to talk to Duryodhana leaving his group to fight Satyaki.

Source: Drona Parva Section 145

• Satyaki defeated Suyodhana

Quote:

Having regained his composure, your son attacked Satyaki again. He showered a net of arrows in the direction of Yuyudhana’s chariot. O king! At this, Satyaki shot arrows towards Duryodhana’s chariot and because those arrows were shot and descended on all sides, the place became violent. A great sound arose, like that of a fire burning a great forest. ‘“On seeing that Madhava, supreme among rathas, was proving to be superior, Karna desired to protect your son and quickly advanced.

Analysis: Karna made a pathetic attempt to cowardly try to interfere in a fight that he had no business in. Just because Duryodhana was losing and Satyaki was winning. Even prior to this Satyaki made Duryodhana unconsious and gave him time to recover, it is a clear defeat of Duryodhan.

Source: Drona Parva Section 164

• Satyaki dominated Drona, Karna & Kripa

Quote 1:

Satyaki, for whom truth was his valour, roamed around in the paths of the chariots and was within the reach of Drona, Karna and Kripa.

Quote 2:

Satyaki is roaming around in this battle, with skills acquired through learning. The extender of the deeds of the Vrishni lineage seems to be toying with those maharathas.

Analysis: So even on the 15th day Satyaki defeated everyone (it was not a defeat but clearly the winner was Satyaki as he proved to be the strongest among them). Two students of Parshuram together could not even defeat one student of Arjun.

Source: Drona Parva Section 164

• Satyaki dragged Bhima

Quote:

The angry and powerful Satyaki was advancing and dragged the powerful Pandava with him, as he tried to hold him back. Bhima, supreme among strong ones, planted his feet firmly on the ground and used force to stop the bull among the Shini lineage at the sixth step.

Analysis:

Satyaki's strength was enough to give Bhima a run for his money. But Bhima stopped him at the end, still Satyaki was able to drag him, dragging a fresh Bhima. Unlike Karna who dragged a already exhausted, wounded bloodied bhim.

Source: Drona Parva Section 169

• Karna Parva
• Satyaki killed Anuvinda

Quote:

Satvata, indomitable in battle, became enraged. In that encounter, he picked up and strung another bow. With an extremely sharp kshurapra arrow, he severed Anuvinda’s head. O king! That large head, with earrings, fell down on the ground, like Shambara’s head when he was killed in the great battle.138

Analysis: With consummate ease this warrior died at the hands of Satyaki in a battle. This feat is not that impressive.

Source: Karna Parva Section 9

• Satyaki killed Vinda

Quote:

Satvata severed Kekaya’s shield into two fragments and in that way, the king also shattered Satyaki’s shield. Having severed the shield that was marked with the signs of hundreds of stars, Kekaya whirled around in circles, advancing and retreating. Wielding the best of swords, Shini’s descendant also roamed around in that great arena and striking sideways, severed Kekaya’s head.

Analysis: Satyaki was an all rounder, he was great swordsman as well as an archer. Proof is in the above passage, how he won a sword fight.

Source: Karna Parva Section 9

• Satyaki defeated Karna

Quote:

At this, Karna abandoned Satyaki and struck Arjuna with three arrows. He then pierced Krishna with twenty arrows and struck Partha with three more. However, Satyaki advanced against Karna and pierced him with sharp arrows, first with ninety-nine fierce arrows and yet again with one hundred.

Analysis: Clearly Karna ran away during this fight.

Source: Karna Parva Section 21

• Satyaki defeated Vrishasena yet again

Quote:

Satyaki killed Vrishasena’s charioteer with three arrows. With a broad-headed arrow, he severed his bow and struck his horses with seven. He shattered his standard with an arrow and struck him in the chest with three. Thus struck, he451 became senseless on his chariot, but raised himself in a short while. Wishing to slay Shini’s descendant, he rushed against him with a sword and a shield. Satyaki also swiftly rushed against Vrishasena and used ten arrows, with heads like the ears of a boar, to strike his sword and shield. Duhshasana saw that he452 was without a chariot and devoid of weapons. He quickly picked him up on his own chariot and then made him ascend another chariot.

Analysis: Satyaki owned Vrishasena in this fight. He couldn't do anything to stop Satyaki, he needed Duhsasana to save him.

Source: Karna Parva Section 32

• Satyaki disarmed Aswathama

Quote:

In the battle, Satyaki angrily struck Drona’s son and used an extremely sharp arrow that was in the form of a halfmoon to sever his bow. Having done this, he roared loudly.

Analysis: Satyaki was able to cut off Aswathama's bow the same Aswathama was an incarnation of Shiva.

Source: Karna Parva Section 39

• Satyaki defeated Sakuni

Quote:

O great king! He551 brought down his charioteer with three arrows and swiftly used other arrows to convey his mounts to Yama’s eternal abode. O bull among the Bharata lineage! Maharatha Shakuni suddenly alighted from his chariot and swiftly ascended that of Uluka. He was quicky borne away from Satyaki, who was skilled in fighting.

Analysis: To be honest this is a fight that no one would wanna see. Satyaki vs Sakuni is a huge mismatch.

Source: Karna Parva Section 44

• Satyaki destroyed Karna's vyuha (battle formation)

Quote:

In that battle, Satyaki attacked your soldiers with great force and shattered the formation. O lord of the earth! Your soldiers were enveloped by arrows shot by Shini’s descendant and were quickly scattered in the ten directions. They lost their lives and fell down.

Analysis: The battle formation of the Kauravas was destroyed by Satyaki alone.

Source: Karna Parva Section 44

• Satyaki destroyed Karna's circle of warriors despite the fact that Karna ambushed him with the help of kripa, Duryodhana, Kritavarman etc.

Quote:

Kripa, Bhoja,712 your sons and Karna struck him back with sharp arrows. However, the supreme one amongst the Yadu lineage fought with them, like the guardians of the directions fighting with the lords of the daityas. His bow roared continuously and he showered down extremely fierce arrows. Satyaki became invincible, like the midday sun in the autumn sky.

Analysis: Truly Karna could never fight against Satyaki without the help of any Kaurava brothers and his own guru Kripa. Perhaps Satyaki had a boon of becoming invincible though.

Source: Karna Parva Section 60

• Satyaki killed Sushena

Quote:

The horses of the foremost among the Shinis705 had been slain. Sushena, the grandson of a suta, enveloped him with sharp arrows and seemed to be dancing around. However, he was struck by the arrows of Shini’s descendant and fell down. When his son was killed, Karna became senseless with rage and wished to kill Shini’s descendant, bull among men.

Analysis: All sons of karna seem to be weak with the exception of Vrishasena who was an average fighter.

Source: Karna Parva Section 60

• Salya Parva
• Satyaki killed king Shalva (of the Mlecchas)

Quote:

When that king of elephants fell down, lamentations arose among your son’s soldiers. The foremost among the Shini lineage then used a sharp and broad-headed arrow to sever King Shalva’s head. The head was severed by Satvata in the battle and fell down on the ground, together with the king of elephants.

Analysis: This might be the same Shalva that attacked Dwaraka and caused krishna to swoon.

Source: Salya Parva Section 19

• Satyaki killed Kshemadhurti

Quote:

However, Shini’s grandson, the mightyarmed Satyaki, attacked. He advanced against the immensely strong Kshemadhurti, and using seven sharp arrows, conveyed him to Yama’s abode.

Analysis: Kshemadhurti is an unknown power. But it only took seven arrows of Satyaki to kill him.

Source: Salya Parva Section 20

• Satyaki defeated Kritavarma

Quote:

His charioteer had been killed. In the encounter, Yuyudhana,14 skilled in the use of weapons, used a broad-headed arrow to strike him in the chest. Kritavarma fell down on the ground. In the duel, the brave one was deprived of his chariot by Satyaki.

Analysis: He defeated Kritavarman many times before so this is not very relevant.

Source: Salya Parva Section 20

• Satyaki captured Sanjaya

Quote:

On seeing me, Dhrishtadyumna laughed. He spoke to Satyaki. ‘What is the point of capturing this one? Nothing will be gained by keeping him alive.’ On hearing Dhrishtadyumna’s words, Shini’s maharatha grandson raised his sharp sword, so as to kill me then. At that time, the immensely wise Krishna Dvaipayana arrived and said, ‘Free Sanjaya alive. Under no circumstances should he be killed.’ Hearing Dvaipayana’s words, Shini’s grandson joined his hands in salutation. Freeing me, he said, ‘O Sanjaya! Depart in peace.’ Obtaining his permission, I cast aside my armour. I was without weapons. In the evening, I set out for the city,54 my limbs covered in blood.

Analysis: If it wasn't for Vyasa (the author of this whole story) then Sanjaya would have died at the hands of Satyaki.

Source: Salya Parva Section 28

• Accolades
• Bhisma's views

Quote:

The brave Madhava Satyaki is the leader of leaders among rathas. He is the most intolerant among the Vrishni warriors. He has conquered all fear. O king!

Analysis: Bhisma knew that Satyaki has no fear. He considered Satyaki the most dangerous Yadava warrior.

Source: Udyoga Parva Section 167

• Krishna's views
• First incident

Quote:

Having been thus addressed by Savyasachi, the mighty-armed and immensely energetic Keshava spoke words that were appropriate to the occasion. ‘O Pandava! The mighty-armed one is alone enough for Karna.

Analysis: Over here Krishna himself is calling Satyaki better than Karna. He said that Satyaki will handle Karna, he is alone enough.

Source: Drona Parva Section 122

• Second incident

Quote:

On seeing this, the great-souled Vishvaksena100 and Dhananjaya honoured Varshneya101 and applauded him, since the undecaying one had repulsed the divine weapons of all the warriors. Vishvaksena and Dhananjaya descended on the soldiers.

Analysis: Vishvaksena is a secondary name for Krishna. He applauded Satyaki's feats.

Source: Drona Parva Section 164

• Suyodhana's views
• First incident

Quote:

The king of Kashi, with the great bow, and maharatha Shikhandi, Dhristadyumna, Virata and Satyaki, who is never defeated, Drupada, the sons of Droupadi, and the mighty-armed son of Subhadra, all of them blew their separate conch shells, O lord of the earth!

Analysis: Duryodhana believes that Satyaki has never been defeated.

Source: Bhishma Parva Section 23

• Dhritarashtra's views

Quote:

He was undefeated by Drona, Radheya, Vikarna and Kritavarma. Fulfilling his promise to Yudhishthira, the brave one passed through that ocean of soldiers.

Analysis: As per Dhritarashtra, Satyaki was an undefeated warrior. Not even Drona and Karna were ever able to defeat him.

Source: Drona Parva Section 119

• Drona's views
• Incident 1

Quote:

In the battle, Drona witnessed Yuyudhana’s superhuman deed and thought about this in his mind. ‘This kind of strength of arms has been seen in Rama,104 Kartavirya, Dhananjaya and Bhishma, the tiger among men. This is now seen in the supreme one among the Satvata lineage.’ Having thought about this in his mind, Drona honoured his valour. The supreme among brahmanas beheld a dexterity that was like Vasava’s. The foremost among those who was knowledgeable about weapons was gratified, and so were the gods, with Vasava. O lord of the earth! That kind of dexterity of hand and swiftness of action, as shown by Yuyudhana, had not been seen earlier by the gods, the gandharvas and the masses of siddhas and charanas, though they had known what Drona was capable of doing."

Analysis: Drona mentally praised Satyaki knowing him to be greater than Parshuram and Kartaviryarjuna & Bhisma. Drona considered Satyaki superior to gods...

Source: Drona Parva Section 73

• Karna's views
• First incident

Quote:

"That army is not easy to defeat, even by the immortals. The twins are the equal of Yama in battle and that army also has Satyaki and Devaki’s son. It is like death with a gaping mouth. A coward who approaches that army will not return."

Analysis: Satyaki was considered a yamdoot (messenger of death) by karna.

Source: Dronabhisheka Parva

• Second incident

Quote:

That army has King Yudhishthira, who is firmly devoted to the truth, Bhima, Arjuna, Vasudeva, Satyaki and the Srinjayas. I think that it cannot be defeated by the kings.

Analysis: Kings would include Karna. So indirectly he accepted that he cannot defeat Satyaki.

Source: Dronabhisheka Parva

• Third incident

Quote:

Other rathas, Satyaki and the others, are also returning after him—the Panchalas, Kekayas and Matsyas, and particularly the Pandavas. Those maharathas are brave, powerful and valiant.

Analysis: Satyaki was considered a maharathi by Karna. He was not considered a coward/crook, he was considered brave, powerful and valiant. Valiant Satyaki.

Source: Drona Parva Section 21

• Fourth incident

Quote:

O great king! If we kill Satyaki and Parshata Dhrishtadyumna, there is no doubt about the certainty that victory will be ours. Let us surround these two brave maharathas, as we did Subhadra’s son.196 O great king! Let us endeavour to kill those of the Vrishni and Parshata lineages.

Analysis: Over here Karna suggested that they use the same tricks to kill Satyaki that they sued on Abhimanyu. Karna admitted that he himself cannot defeat/kill Satyaki using his own strength.

Source: Drona Parva Section 145

• Arjuna's views
• Arjuna considered Satyaki equal to Pradyumna

Quote:

It is also a great task to protect Dharmaraja. O mighty-armed one! You protect him today. You will protect him the way I would have protected him myself. I do not see anyone else I can depend on, with the exception of maharatha Pradyumna.

Analysis: Being equal to the son of Krishna, and being the only person who Arjuna could trust for handing over the task of protecting Yudhishthira is a great compliment.

Source: Drona Parva Section 60

• Arjuna praised Satyaki again

Quote:

"He is dexterous in using weapons.181 He is a colourful fighter. There is lightness in his valour. He is wise in all weapons. He is brave. He does not get confused in battle. He is broad in the shoulders. He is broad in the chest. He is mighty-armed. He wields a giant bow. He is immensely strong. He is immensely valorous. He is great-souled. He is a maharatha. He is my student. He is my friend. I love him and he loves me. Yuyudhana will be my aide and will crush the Kouravas."

Analysis: Clearly if Arjuna considers Satyaki this much of a worthy comrade then he would be a really deadly opponent in wars.

Source: Drona Parva Section 85

• Arjuna would choose Satyaki over Balarama, Pradyumna, Samva, Gada, Charudeshna, Aniruddha & Krishna..

Quote:

Even if Keshava, Rama,182 Aniruddha,183 maharatha Pradyumna, Gada,184 Samba185 and all the Vrishnis armour themselves for our sake and seek to help us in the forefront of the battle, I will appoint Shini’s descendant, that tiger among men, for whom truth is his valour, as our aide. There is no one else who is his equal.

Analysis: This speaks light years of Satyaki's prowess. He was considered the supreme warrior among the Yadava race/Vrishni clan. Shini's descendant is Satyaki.

Source: Drona Parva Section 85

• Arjuna said Satyaki was among the top 3 warriors of their army

Quote:

Bibhatsu, the scorcher of enemies, also spoke to the rakshasa Ghatotkacha. ‘O Ghatotkacha! In my view, you, the mighty-armed Satyaki and Pandava Bhimasena are the best among all our soldiers. In the night, go and engage in a duel with Karna. Maharatha Satyaki will protect your rear.

Analysis: He rated Satyaki over the same Drupada that defeated Karna and the one hudnred Kaurava brothers along with Yuyutsu.

Source: Drona Parva Section 148

• Arjuna praised Satyaki on the 15th day

Quote:

Dhananjaya told Krishna, ‘O Keshava! Behold. Satyaki, for whom truth is his valour, and who is the extender of the Madhu lineage, is sporting around before the preceptor. This gives me great delight and also to Madri’s two sons, Bhima and King Yudhishthira. Satyaki is roaming around in this battle, with skills acquired through learning. The extender of the deeds of the Vrishni lineage seems to be toying with those maharathas. The siddhas and the soldiers are astounded. On seeing that Satvata is invincible in battle, they are honouring him and applauding him. All the warriors on both sides are honouring his deeds.’”’

Analysis: The Maharathas (maharathi) Satyaki was "toying" with are Karna, Kripa, Duryodhana & Drona.

Source: Drona Parva Section 164

• Bhima's view

Quote:

The foremost among the Shinis, the equal of Krishna in strength, is engaged likewise.6

Analysis: Krishna can refer to either Arjuna or Saurin. But Bhima definitely held Satyaki in the same league as Krishna and Arjuna.

Source: Vana Parva Section 173

• Yudhishthira's views
• Incident 1

Quote:

Keshava has always been the refuge of the Pandavas. O Varshneya! You have also been like that and you are Krishna’s equal in valour.

Analysis: Over here Satyaki has also been considered the refuge of the Pandavas and a equal of Krishna in terms of Valor. And Yudhishthira is considered the gospel of truth just like Bori Ce.

Source: Drona Parva Section 85

• Incident 2

Quote:

There is no one other than you who can protect Vijaya in battle. Pandava has boasted about your hundreds of deeds and has talked about them repeatedly, creating delight in me.

Analysis: As per Yudhishthira not even Bhima and Ghatotkaca & perhaps Krishna could have protected Arjuna in the battlefield except for Satyaki. This also indicates that Satyaki had over a hundred achievements and feats before the Kurukshetra war.

Source: Drona Parva Section 85

• Incident 3

Quote:

In a battle, among the foremost ones of the Vrishni lineage, two have been said to be atirathas. These are the mighty-armed Pradyumna and the illustrious Satvata.187

Analysis: An atiratha is someone who is capable of fighting 60,000 opponents all at once. And in the Vrishni clan their were only two people capable of that. One was Krishna's son Pradyumna the other is Arjuna's disciple Satyaki.

Source: Drona Parva Section 85

• Incident 4

Quote:

You are equal to Narayana in weapons and equal to Samkarshana188 in strength. O tiger among men! You are Dhananjaya’s equal in valour. You surpass Bhishma and Drona and all those who are skilled in fighting.

Analysis: In terms of strength Satyaki was Balaram's equal.

Source: Drona Parva Section 85

• Incident 5

Quote:

It has been said that there is nothing in the world that Satyaki cannot perform. O immensely strong one! Therefore, do what I am asking you to do.

Analysis: Although it has been Satyaki can do anything it is clearly not true.

Source: Drona Parva Section 85

• Somadatta's views

Quote:

O Satvata! It is indeed said that, among the Vrishnis, there are two mighty-armed warriors who are maharathas—Pradyumna and you.

Analysis: Only two warriors were considered the best. Satyaki was one of the two. And this is the opinion of a man whose son (Bhurishravas) was killed by Satyaki.

Source: Drona Parva Section 131

• Sanjaya's views
• As per him (sanjay) Satyaki killed more warriors than Arjuna.

Quote:

We did not see any infantry, chariots, elephants, riders and horses that were not pierced by Yuyudhana’s arrows. O king! Not even Phalguna had caused such carnage amongst the army, as was caused by Satyaki. O king! O bull among the Bharata lineage! Shini’s grandson surpassed Arjuna in the battle.

Analysis: While the casualties created by Satyaki on that day were even more than the ones caused by Arjuna, it does not change the fact that Satyaki was not better than Arjuna. Arjuna was better than Satyaki.

Source: Drona Parva Section 96

• Satyaki is among the three best archers of the world.

Quote:

Satyaki, the destroyer of enemies, possessed a valour that was like that of the two Krishnas and for the sake of attaining to the afterworld and to do that which would bring pleasure to Dharmaraja. O tiger among men! In this world, there are only three archers—Krishna, Partha and Shini’s descendant. No fourth one can be seen.

Analysis: So basically Arjuna and Krishna on the top then Satyaki, after that everybody else (including Karna).

Source: Drona Parva Section 122

To be honest Satyaki was more powerful than Shiva & Vishnu (the so called trimurti). Satyaki can defeat Vishnu very easily because his avatar (Parasurama) lost a fight to Bhisma (the same bhisma was defeated with low difficulty by Satyaki).

Satyaki can defeat Shiva (Shiva is still better than Vishnu though) because he defeated Aswathama (the avatar of Shiva).
Krishna even considered Satyaki at the very least as his equal as he allowed him to sit on the same seat as he did, and they sat together.
Quote:

The brave, immensely radiant, immensely strong and greatsouled Krishna and Yuyudhana seated themselves on a single seat.

Analysis: So Satyaki was always held in high esteem by everyone.
Source: Drona Parva Section 59
Even while Satyaki was drunk he was able to defeat Karna, Aswathama, Kritavarman, Duhsasana, Duryodhana, Vrishasena and Salya. So why make excuses for Karna being drunk (even though he was never drunk)? Is it because Satyaki was better than Karna?

Satyaki is the warrior that humbled Bhisma, Bhagadatta, Drona, Suyodhana, Kritavarman, Vrishasena, Aswathama, Karna, and Sanjaya.... He was superior to every fighter on the Kaurava side.