“Andha Yug“, written by Dharamvir Bharati, is a seminal work in Indian literature that delves deep into the moral and ethical decline during the final days of the Mahabharata war. Set in the aftermath of the battle of Kurukshetra, the play portrays the disintegration of values and the rise of chaos and despair. Here are some key aspects of the destruction of ethical values in “Andha Yug”:

Moral Decay in Leadership – 

• Dhritarashtra and Gandhari: The blind king Dhritarashtra and his wife Gandhari symbolize the moral blindness that pervades the leadership. Dhritarashtra’s inability to take a stand against his son Duryodhana’s unethical actions leads to the war’s catastrophic consequences. Gandhari, though virtuous, curses Krishna, showcasing the pervasive sense of despair and loss of faith.
• Ashwatthama: His decision to unleash the Narayanastra and later the Brahmastra, despite knowing the devastating consequences, highlights the erosion of ethical values even among respected warriors and scholars.
• Krishna: Krishna, often seen as the embodiment of dharma (righteousness), engages in acts of deception to ensure the Pandavas’ victory. His actions, such as advising Yudhishthira to lie about Ashwatthama’s death and facilitating Bhima’s killing of Duryodhana through an unethical blow, reflect the complex interplay between dharma and adharma (unrighteousness) in times of war.

The pervasive sense of hopelessness and despair among the characters signifies the ultimate destruction of ethical values. The survivors are left to grapple with the meaninglessness of their actions and the irreversible consequences of their moral failures.

Symbolism of Darkness and Blindness – 

The title “Andha Yug” itself is a metaphor for the blindness to moral and ethical values. The play’s characters, driven by anger, revenge, and despair, fail to see the path of righteousness, leading to their downfall.

Critique of War – 

Bharati critiques the war’s dehumanizing effects, showing how it corrupts even the most virtuous individuals. The ethical and moral degradation is evident in the ruthless killings, the use of deceit, and the abandonment of dharma.

“Kadambari” is a classic Sanskrit novel written by Bāṇa, one of the great poets of ancient India. The story centers on the love saga between the protagonist, Chandrapida, a prince of Ujjain, and Kadambari, a celestial nymph. The novel’s complex narrative structure includes various subplots, characters, and intricate details that contribute to its rich tapestry. The plot unfolds through a series of interconnected stories and flashbacks, creating a multi-layered narrative that captures the reader’s imagination.

One of the novel’s hallmark features is its use of a frame narrative, where the main story is embedded within multiple layers of other stories. This technique not only enriches the narrative but also adds depth and complexity, as each subplot intertwines with the main storyline, contributing to the overall tapestry of the novel.

The novel is marked by its extensive use of flashbacks, providing background information that helps readers understand the motivations and histories of the characters. These flashbacks also serve to build suspense, as they often reveal crucial details that foreshadow future events. This method of storytelling ensures that the reader remains engaged, piecing together the story as it unfolds from various angles and perspectives.

Bāṇa’s narrative is also distinguished by its multiplicity of perspectives. The story is often recounted from the viewpoints of different characters, allowing readers to gain a comprehensive understanding of events. This multi-perspective approach deepens the narrative, offering insights into the inner thoughts and emotions of the characters, thus enhancing the reader’s connection to the story.

The language of “Kadambari” is another notable aspect of the novel. Bāṇa’s descriptive and poetic style is rich with elaborate descriptions of nature, emotions, and settings. His use of metaphors and similes, along with vivid imagery, creates a lush and immersive world. The novel’s aesthetic appeal lies in these detailed descriptions, which not only paint a vivid picture but also convey the mood and tone of the story.

Overall, “Kadambari” stands as a masterful example of early novelistic storytelling in Sanskrit. Its sophisticated narrative structure, enriched by flashbacks, multiple perspectives, and a poetic language, creates a compelling and immersive reading experience. The novel’s exploration of timeless themes and its well-crafted characters contribute to its enduring appeal, solidifying its place as a classic in the literary canon.

The concept of the tragic hero evolves from classical to modern literature, reflecting societal values and concerns. Oedipus from Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex is a noble king whose hubris and defiance of fate lead to his downfall, fulfilling a prophecy that he would kill his father and marry his mother. His story emphasizes the Greek belief in fate and the consequences of hubris, illustrating the inevitable power of destiny and divine will.

In contrast, Willy Loman from Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman is a common man whose delusions and unwavering belief in the American Dream result in his tragic end. Willy’s downfall is driven by personal choices and societal pressures, reflecting modern themes of individual struggle, mental health, and the critique of consumerism and material success. His story underscores the disparity between the promise of the American Dream and the harsh reality faced by many.

Both characters experience moments of self-realization too late to save themselves, evoking pity and fear in the audience. While Oedipus’s fate is sealed by divine prophecy, Willy’s tragedy stems from societal ideals and personal failures, highlighting the shift from classical to modern perspectives on heroism and tragedy.