Dhananjaya saw this and retaliated by fierce shafts aimed at Bhishma, Duryo- dhana went to Drona and complained bitterly according to his wont.

Drona upbraided him severely: "Obstinate prince, you talk without understanding. You are ignorant of the Pandavas' strength. We are doing our best."

Drona's powerful attack on the Pandava army was too much for Satyaki who was meeting it and Bhima therefore turned his attentions to Drona. The battle grew fiercer still. Drona, Bhishma and Salya made a combined attack on Bhima.

Sikhandin supported Bhima by pouring a shower of arrows on Bhishma. As soon as Sikhandin stepped in, Bhishma turned away, for Sikhandin was born a girl, and Bhishma's principles did not permit him to attack a woman.

In the end, this same objection proved to be the cause of Bhishma's death When Drona saw Bhishma turn away, he attacked Sikhandin fiercely and compelled him to withdraw.