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Is the retelling of Mahabharata via social media a form of reinterpretation or appropriation of an ancient text?

Jonathan Lidstone

Well, well, well, my dear friend, you have stumbled upon quite the juicy topic in the world of social media. The retelling of Mahabharata via social media, huh? Sounds like someone’s got some serious storytelling chops! But, the question remains, is this a form of reinterpretation or appropriation of an ancient text?

Let’s start by defining the terms, shall we? Reinterpretation refers to a new understanding or interpretation of an existing text or concept. Appropriation, on the other hand, refers to the adoption of elements from one culture by another. Now, let’s apply these concepts to the retelling of Mahabharata via social media.

Firstly, the retelling of Mahabharata via social media is most definitely a reinterpretation of an ancient text. By using modern technology and social media platforms, the storyteller is able to reach a wider audience and present the story in a new and creative way. They may choose to focus on certain aspects of the story, emphasize different themes, or even change the order of events. This reinterpretation allows for a new understanding and appreciation of the ancient text.

However, some may argue that the retelling of Mahabharata via social media also constitutes a form of appropriation. After all, social media is inherently a Western concept, and the act of retelling a story from a different culture could be seen as appropriating elements of that culture for one’s own use. Additionally, the storyteller may choose to present the story in a way that fits with their own personal beliefs or values, which may differ from the original text.

So, what’s the verdict? Is the retelling of Mahabharata via social media a form of reinterpretation or appropriation? It’s a bit of both, really. While the use of social media allows for a reinterpretation of the ancient text, the act of retelling a story from a different culture carries with it the potential for appropriation. However, it’s important to remember that appropriation is not always a bad thing. When done respectfully and with an understanding of the culture being adopted, it can lead to a greater appreciation and understanding of that culture.

In conclusion, the retelling of Mahabharata via social media is a fascinating and complex topic. While it may be both a form of reinterpretation and appropriation, it ultimately allows for a new understanding and appreciation of an ancient text. So, my dear friend, keep on retelling those stories via social media! Who knows, maybe you’ll inspire others to reinterpret and appropriate in their own unique ways.