Time to Question the History – Ajaya: Roll of the Dice (Anand Neelakantan)
This post is in continuation with my Book Review of Ajaya: Roll of the Dice by Anand Neelakantan. The book tells us altogether different perspective of one of the greatest mythological story ever written. We all grew up reading and listening to stories of Mahabharata. Each retelling gives more importance to different parts of story. But in each rendition of Mahabharata, Pandavas are shown as upholders of Dharma while Kauravas symbolize Adharma. We also took it for granted and made our notion about the heroes and villains. We all loved Pandavas and hated Kauravas. Nobody ever wondered that there could be another adaption of story which does not match our beliefs but not anymore. It’s time to question the history. I raised some moral and ethical questions on the popular version of Mahabharata story in my previous post but the list is not a small one. Here are some more burning questions
Duryodhana: One who misuses wealth and power
Dussashana: One who mis-administers
Bhishma: Killed unarmed when he declined to fight a transgender (Shikhandi).
Drona: Killed unarmed after being falsely informed of his son’s death.
Karna: Killed unarmed when his chariot wheel got stuck in the mud.
Duryodhana: The greatest mace warrior was killed by Bheema attacking him below the waist against the rule of mace fight.
I don’t disrespect the original story by any means. But in today’s time, we can’t simply accept any story or fact without thinking of a counter argument or a different aspect. Ajaya: Roll of the Dice is a must read for all the readers who enjoys reading mythology and who are not afraid to read something which forces you to think beyond the accepted version of story.
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