Why Arjuna Received So Much Love and Spotlight in Mahabharata

India, a land renowned for its rich cultural heritage and ancient educational systems, serves as a backdrop for one of the world's greatest epics, the Mahabharata. Arjuna, the central character shone brightly among the Pandavas, and his every deed was celebrated. Let us explore the reasons why he garnered so much love and spotlight in this timeless tale.

Education and Leadership

sishya-parampara, the traditional guru-student relationship, has been the foundation of India's educational system since ancient times. This pedagogical system was deeply ingrained in the culture, and Arjuna was one of the most dedicated and high-achieving students. Under the illustrious guidance of his friend and mentor, Krishna, he honed his skills and emerged as a remarkable leader.

The Multidimensional Relationship: Arjuna and Krishna

The bond between Arjuna and Krishna extends beyond the confines of the epic. Their relationship is deeply intertwined, with layers that touch upon mentorship, camaraderie, and spiritual connection. As time progressed, this relationship become the cornerstone of the Mahabharata, giving rise to stories that have transcended generations.

The Opening Shlok and Arjuna’s Praise

Even the first shloka of the original text by Maharishi Ved Vyasa addresses Arjuna, praising him and encouraging homage. The veritable Pandava protagonists, the Pandavas, are heroes of the Mahabharata, and Arjuna stands out as one of the most important among them. This opening shloka sets the tone for the entire epic, emphasizing the profound importance of Arjuna.

A Critique of the Central Character Theory

Some scholars and readers argue that the Mahabharata is not centered around a single hero, but the serial adaptations often highlight Arjuna more than others. Particularly, the Star Mahabharata serial places an immense focus on Arjuna. A prominent translator, Vasu, suggests that Yudhishthira is the real central character since only he enters heaven in his mortal form. According to Vasu, Arjuna, while a great warrior, is overshadowed by Yudhishthira's towering presence and moral integrity.

The Best Among the Winners

While Arjuna was indeed a skilled warrior, his prominence often hails from his exceptional performance in the battlefield. However, many tales within the Mahabharata are related through Arjuna's perspective, which can give him a heroic hue. The epic itself is a mosaic of various characters and their narratives, with each cast member contributing significantly to the story's fabric.

Understanding the Mahabharata provides a lens through which we can appreciate the complexity of India's ancient literature and its enduring appeal. Arjuna's celebrated legacy is not just a result of his martial prowess but also of the deep, multifaceted relationship he shared with Krishna, as well as the narrative choices of the epic's authors and chroniclers.

Keywords: Mahabharata, Arjuna, Krishna