Lucknow: Renowned author and scholar Purushottam Agarwal shared insights about his latest book on the Mahabharata in a thought-provoking conversation with Anubhav Tyagi. Having devoted 25 years to this monumental work, Agarwal revealed his fascination with the epic’s central themes of justice and injustice, which fuelled his exploration of its timeless questions.
Discussing the essence of the phrase Nar ko praman karna, Agarwal explained its meaning—human beings (nar) have the potential to elevate themselves to divinity (narayan). He reflected on the challenges of reinterpreting the Mahabharata today, drawing parallels with the original writing process involving Lord Ganesha and Vyasa, emphasizing how truth was meticulously preserved.
In today’s context, Agarwal highlighted the difficulty of discerning truth, as facts are often overshadowed by individual opinions. He explored the epic’s moral dilemmas, questioning whether truth always serves justice, particularly when it impacts others.
Agarwal addressed religion’s evolving nature, noting that the Mahabharata illustrates how values shift with time. He also touched on the relevance of caste census debates and its implications on modern society.
Finally, he delved into Draupadi’s complex character, calling her both challenging and inspiring, symbolizing strength and resilience in a patriarchal era. This conversation underscored the Mahabharata’s enduring relevance in understanding justice, morality, and human nature.
