"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 chaosRead more
“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.
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Honestly, it doesn’t matter to me which religion, family, race, gender, class, or era I am born into. Every religion has different ways of worship, but ultimately, all paths lead to one supreme God. Every family provides love and care to their children. If I had been born into a different family, IRead more
Honestly, it doesn’t matter to me which religion, family, race, gender, class, or era I am born into. Every religion has different ways of worship, but ultimately, all paths lead to one supreme God. Every family provides love and care to their children. If I had been born into a different family, I would have loved them just as much as I love my current family. If my skin color or facial features were different, I would still be happy because what truly matters is having a clear and pure heart, not physical appearance.
If I were of a different gender, I would still respect everyone and fulfill my responsibilities, whether as a girl or a boy. Respecting others is fundamental. If I were born into a different social class, I would still be content because family is everything. Even if you are the richest person, without family, you wouldn’t be truly happy. Family is what matters most; with their support, you can overcome any obstacle. Time doesn’t matter either—I would simply cherish every moment with my family and my parents in every situation.
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