Q.- What is the significance of Dharma and the heroic ideal in Mahabharata ?
Ans: The Mahabharata, one of the greatest epics of the world, is deeply concerned with dharma (righteousness) and the concept of the heroic ideal. These two themes are central to understanding the moral and philosophical lessons of the epic.
Dharma, in the Mahabharata, is the guiding principle of life. It is the path of truth, duty, and righteousness. Every character in the story faces moral dilemmas and choices between right and wrong. Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava, is the perfect example of dharma. Even though he faces many challenges, he always tries to act according to righteousness. Similarly, Bhishma, Vidura, and Krishna emphasize the importance of duty, truth, and justice. The epic teaches that following dharma is not always easy; it often requires sacrifices, courage, and patience. Disregard for dharma leads to chaos, destruction, and suffering, as seen in the downfall of the Kauravas.
The heroic ideal in the Mahabharata combines bravery, skill, loyalty, and moral responsibility. Heroes like Arjuna, Bhima, and Karna are admired not only for their physical strength or skill in battle but also for their commitment to righteousness, honor, and loyalty to family and society. A true hero, according to the epic, must balance courage with ethical behavior. Even Krishna, though divine, represents the ideal hero through his guidance, wisdom, and protection of dharma.
The significance of dharma and the heroic ideal is that they provide a moral framework for life. The Mahabharata shows that heroism is not merely about winning battles but about upholding justice, protecting the weak, and fulfilling one’s duty. It teaches that a society survives and flourishes only when individuals follow dharma and aspire to the heroic ideal.
Thus, the Mahabharata is both a story of war and a guide to living a moral and righteous life, highlighting the eternal struggle between right and wrong and the qualities of a true hero.
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