Review of “Ramayana
vs Mahabharata – My Playful Comparison” – Devdutt Pattanaik
The depiction of God Vishnu as a king (Ram) and another as a kingmaker (Krishna)
are beautifully compared and compiled by Devdutt Pattanaik. While the
comparison basically involves the similarities and a few dissimilarities between
the two epics, it also ponders over the cause and effect relationship of on
Ramayana on Mahabharata. Although, both these sagas took place more than 2000
years apart, the comparison still manages to preserve the connection ascribed the
avatars of the same Vedic gods and subordinate characters.
The book discusses about a lot of things that are common to both the
ballads especially considering the narration, family, rupture, exile, war,
aftermath, retelling and wisdom. Attention is given to the status of parents,
children, woman, transgender, rishi and rakshasa in the society in both cases. It
talks about dharma and karma as the basis of all happenings. It clarifies on
the Matsya nyaya or fish justice or law of the jungle as opposed to the dharma
prescribed to be followed by all civilized folk. The book also lays emphasis on
the many adaptive forms of both these epics all across India and beyond,
comparing aspects of these with the other major religions of the world like
Buddhism, Jainism and Greek mythology. It also clarifies the time-line of
inclusion of certain events and their meaning in both the stories.
Devdutt Pattanaik does with this volume what is popular for, i.e. demystifying
the exact meaning of events and occurrences and their probability of being a
reality or myth. The illustrations being a constant feature in other books by
the author are equally alluring. The research done in collecting information
about various adaptations of these two epics from various parts of India and
their interpretation and association with what are assumed to be the originals
is arduous and noteworthy.
My take: If you liked My Gita, you must pick up this one, for the sheer pleasure
of gaining more knowledge.
Book Courtesy: Vivek Tejuja (Flipkart)
