Artha:

Addressing Drona, Duryodhana mentions the names of great warriors such as 

Bhishma, Karna, Kripa,hvatthama, Vikarna, son of Somadatta (as in Verse 8)

that are willing to sacrifice their lives for his sake. In other words, it 

is already concluded that all of them would die in the Battle of Kurukshetra for

joining the party of the sinful Duryodhana. Duryodhana was, of course, confident

of his victory on account of the above-mentioned combined strength of his friends.

Analysis:

Even though many of his supporters may know that Duryodhana was not following 

the path of Dharma, they are under an obligation to support him. In Karna's

case, he felt that he was indebted to Duryodhana when Duryodhana crowned him

the King of Anga, in the midst of the Royal gathering where he was being ridiculed

by Kripa, who was well-versed in the rules of single combat. This was

a gathering where Karna openly challenged Arjuna. The question about

his parentage and race were raised by Kripa and Duryodhana saved him from 

disgrace by crowning him King of Anga.

We see a parallel to this in Ramayana where Kumbakarna sides with Ravana,

even though he was convinced his brother was not following the path of Dharma. 

This brings up a question - Is it right for one to support someone who doesn't 

follow the path of Dharma so that one may fulfil his duty/obligation to this person?

Please express your thoughts on this.

Verse 9 Contributed by Mathi.