Framing the Inner Stature of the (S)heroes: Madhvi, Satyavati, Kunti

Abstract

The essence of the modernistic awareness is located amply in the literature of the Indian universal mythical theme. Erudition of ancient texts like Ramayana and Mahabharata, not only is a source of popular culture but also detects concerns related to individuality and authority that have taken over subaltern probing. Patriarchic misogyny claims are elated while the paper attempts to look forward as Lisa Tuttle in her book The Encyclopedia of Feminism urges to look into “new questions for old texts,” prods over the role of women who are commonly considered as the weaker sex and submissive ones. A close analysis can impart a ray of understanding that amidst patriarchal society and regulations, the women in The Mahabharata did occupy prominence in terms of spirituality, salvation and sexuality that what the general assumptions would affirm. Focus is to reveal that women in the epic portray strong will power and ability to change the decisions made by men, thus playing a crucial role in hi(s)story. The present paper probes into a principal concern of the prominent women characters- Madhvi, Satyavati, Kunti along with a few connected instances of Gandhari and Draupadi; their relationship of their self, by their self and for their self.