By: Dr. Rajkumar Singh
The Mahabharata, commonly known as one of the major Sanskrit epic of ancient India, is a vast and complex text that weaves together mythology, history, philosophy, and moral dilemmas. Women in the Mahabharata play crucial roles that influence the course of the story and embody various aspects of Hindu dharma (duty, moral order). The female characters of the time include Draupadi.
Draupadi is one of the most pivotal characters in the Mahabharata. Married to the five Pandavas, she is known for her strength, intelligence, and fierce sense of justice. The disrobing of Draupadi in the Kaurava court is one of the most significant events in the epic, leading to the eventual war of Kurukshetra. Her unwavering stance during the humiliation and her demand for justice make her a symbol of resistance against injustice.
Kunti, the mother of the Pandavas, also plays a significant role in shaping their destinies. She is known for her wisdom, devotion, and the sacrifices she makes for her children. Kunti’s decisions, such as invoking the gods to bear her sons and her advice to them during the Kurukshetra war, have a profound impact on the epic’s narrative.
Gandhari, the wife of Dhritarashtra and mother of the Kauravas, is a character embodying self-sacrifice and loyalty. Despite knowing the destructive nature of her sons, she remains bound by her duties as a wife and mother. Gandhari’s decision to blindfold herself for life, out of solidarity with her blind husband, symbolizes her deep commitment to her marriage.
Satyavati, the matriarch of the Kuru dynasty, is instrumental in the events leading to the Mahabharata. She is the mother of Vyasa, the sage who composes the Mahabharata, and grandmother to the Kauravas and Pandavas. Satyavati’s decisions, particularly regarding the succession of the throne, set the stage for the epic’s conflicts. Than there is Amba, another important female figure in the Mahabharata, a princess who becomes an avenging spirit,. After being rejected by Bhishma, to whom she was forcibly taken, she vows revenge against him. Her rebirth as Shikhandi plays a crucial role in Bhishma’s downfall during the Kurukshetra war.
Subhadra, the sister of Krishna and wife of Arjuna, is the mother of Abhimanyu, a valiant warrior in the Mahabharata. Her role, though less central than others, is important in the lineage of the Pandavas and their legacy. Thus, women in the Mahabharata are multifaceted and central to the narrative.
The women of the Mahabharata era are richly characterized, embodying a wide range of traits and roles. Their features reflect the complex interplay of strength, duty, and moral dilemmas that define the epic. Draupadi is the epitome of strength and resilience. Despite the numerous adversities she faces, including the infamous disrobing in the Kaurava court, she stands firm in her principles and fights for justice. Her strength is not just physical but also mental and emotional. Kunti, on the other hand shows immense resilience in dealing with the challenges of being a single mother to the Pandavas. She endures hardship with grace and always prioritizes her children’s welfare, even at great personal cost. Kunti’s wisdom is evident in her strategic decisions, such as sending Karna away at birth to protect her reputation and guiding her sons through complex situations during the war.
Gandhari, despite her tragic circumstances, displays deep wisdom. Her insights often reflect her understanding of the consequences of the Kauravas’ actions, even though she remains loyal to her family. Gandhari’s loyalty to her husband, Dhritarashtra, is symbolized by her decision to blindfold herself for life. Her devotion to her family remains unwavering, even when it leads to personal tragedy.
Satyavati’s devotion to her family is evident in her efforts to secure the throne for her descendants, even at the cost of bringing about complex moral dilemmas.
Kunti’s life is marked by sacrifice, from giving up her firstborn, Karna, to enduring the hardships of exile with her other sons. Her sense of duty as a mother often supersedes her personal desires while as Gandhari’s sacrifices are immense, including the loss of all her sons in the war. Her acceptance of these losses reflects her deep sense of duty and her tragic commitment to the dharma of her time. Thus, the women of the Mahabharata are not just supporting characters; they are integral to the epic’s narrative and thematic depth. Their features highlight the complexities of human nature, societal roles, and the interplay between destiny and choice.
Comparing the women of the Mahabharata era with women of today reveals both contrasts and continuities in terms of roles, rights, and societal expectations. While the context and conditions have changed significantly, some of the underlying themes remain relevant.
Women today have diverse roles that extend far beyond the domestic sphere. They participate actively in all fields, including politics, business, science, and the arts. The idea of a woman’s role being limited to the household has been challenged and transformed. Many women today occupy positions of direct power and influence, such as political leaders, CEOs, and thought leaders, reflecting a broader scope of opportunities and a shift towards gender equality.
It is also true that women today have significantly more autonomy in making personal and professional decisions. Legal and social reforms have granted women rights to education, employment, property, and equal participation in society. The modern feminist movement has furthered the cause of gender equality, challenging traditional roles and advocating for the autonomy of women in all aspects of life, including reproductive rights, marriage, and career choices.
Access to education is now a fundamental right for women across much of the world, though disparities still exist. Women today are actively involved in academia, research, and various professional fields. The pursuit of knowledge by women is not only accepted but encouraged, leading to greater innovation and contributions to society in diverse areas. While stereotypes and social expectations still exist, there has been significant progress in challenging and redefining these norms. Women today are increasingly viewed as individuals with their own aspirations, rather than being confined to traditional roles. There is a growing acceptance of diverse identities and lifestyles, though societal pressures and stereotypes continue to persist in some areas. The comparison between the women of the Mahabharata era and the women of today highlights the evolution of gender roles, rights, and societal expectations. The progress made in terms of rights, autonomy, and opportunities for women reflects a broader societal shift towards gender equality, though challenges remain. The legacy of the women in the Mahabharata continues to inspire and inform the journey of women in contemporary society.
The writer is a youth motivator and former Head of the University Department of Political Science, B.N. Mandal University, Madhepura, Bihar, India.
