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How has Mahabharata influenced the cultural identity of India?

Alex Kinny

Well, as an Indian myself, I can tell you that Mahabharata is more than just a literary masterpiece; it’s an integral part of our cultural identity. From the influence on governance to artistic expressions, the Mahabharata has imprinted its stories on the Indian psyche.

One of the most significant ways the Mahabharata has impacted our cultural identity is through its impact on the performance arts. The stories from the epic have been adapted into plays, musical compositions, and dance performances. Even today, it's not uncommon to see street performers reciting verses from the Mahabharata to enthrall the audience. In fact, several UNESCO-listed intangible cultural heritage practices such as Kudiyattam and Kutiyattam are based upon the Mahabharata.

The mythological themes of the Mahabharata have also been extensively drawn upon in Indian literature and cinema. Many film directors have adopted the main characters and adapted them to suit their productions. The epic has played an essential role in shaping the Indian psyche, with several of the values proposed by its characters like Arjun such as dharma, self-realisation, and sacrifice being held up as the ideal moral codes of ideal citizens.

Mahabharata's impact on the political and governance of India is equally profound. The term 'Dharmaraj' comes from the epic, and it's derived from the character Yudhishthir, who governed according to the dictums of dharma. The story of Savitri and Satyavan also speaks of the extent to which a wife can go to protect her husband, which is considered a virtue in Indian societal norms.

Lastly, it's worth mentioning that the Mahabharata is an essential source of spiritual guidance for many Hindus. It speaks of the importance of upholding moral values and the significance of renunciation, detachment, and devotion towards God. The epic contains many philosophical concepts that still hold significant relevance today.

Summing up, the Mahabharata is the bedrock of Indian cultural identity, and its influence can be seen in countless ways ranging from the arts, philosophy, governance, and spirituality. It has helped bind India's diverse cultures and subcultures in a common thread of shared history, which is why it continues to hold a unique place in the Indian psyche.