Q.- Discuss the role of Shakuni in Mahabharata.
Ans: Shakuni, the maternal uncle of the Kauravas, is one of the most cunning and complex characters in the Mahabharata. He plays a major role in shaping the rivalry between the Kauravas and Pandavas, and many tragic events in the epic are linked to him. His role can be understood in the following five points:
1. Instigator of Conflict:Shakuni constantly provoked Duryodhana against the Pandavas. He filled his mind with jealousy and hatred, ensuring that peace between the two families was impossible. Without Shakuni’s influence, the rivalry might not have reached such a destructive stage.
2. Master of Deceit and Dice Game:One of the most crucial roles Shakuni played was in the infamous dice game. Using his skill in cheating, he helped Duryodhana defeat Yudhishthira. This event led to the humiliation of Draupadi and eventually became the immediate cause of the Kurukshetra war.
3. Symbol of Revenge:Shakuni’s hatred for the Kuru family had personal roots. According to tradition, his family suffered because of Bhishma and Hastinapura, which made him vengeful. He used his intelligence to destroy the Kuru dynasty from within. Thus, his role symbolizes how revenge blinds a person and leads to destruction.
4. Advisor and Strategist of Duryodhana: Shakuni was Duryodhana’s closest advisor. He encouraged him to adopt unfair methods and stood with him in all wrong decisions. His clever strategies supported Duryodhana, but at the same time, they pushed the Kauravas towards their downfall.
5. Cause of Destruction and a Moral Lesson:Shakuni’s schemes may have worked in the short term, but in the long run, they destroyed the Kauravas. He teaches readers that cunningness, selfishness, and hatred can never build a lasting victory. Instead, they lead to ruin.
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