This book is a curated anthology of scholarly papers presented at "The Two Day International Conference on the impact of Indian epics, specifically the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, on literature and society" organized jointly by Banaskantha District Kelavani Mandal managed G. D. Modi College of Arts, Palanpur and Gujarat Sahitya Academy Gandhinagar, held at Ambaji on 6th and 7th January 2024. It brings together a diverse range of perspectives, examining the profound influence of these epics across various literary traditions, cultural practices, and ethical frameworks. The contributors explore how these ancient narratives continue to inspire and shape contemporary thought, both in India and globally. This volume serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Mahabharata and the Ramayana along with other Indian epics, offering new insights into their timeless relevance in today's world without claiming to be highly comprehensive in scholarship. However, it will be an indispensable source for students and teachers delving deep into the impact of this genre on literature and society.
Dr. Santoshkumar G. Chauhan is the principal of a leading Arts college of district, G.D. Modi College of Arts, Palanpur where he has been teaching English Literature for over three decades. He plays an active role in university governance, serving as a senate member, part of the Board of Studies in English, and a member of the Faculty of Arts. As president of the English Teachers Association, he leads English educators across the university's affiliated colleges. A respected scholar, Dr. Chauhan has presented research papers at national and international conferences, with his work published in prestigious journals. As a Ph.D. guide at several esteemed universities, he has mentored numerous M.Phil. students while 16 Ph. D scholars have obtained their degrees under his guidance.
Prof. Mukesh Raval is a distinguished poet, creative writer, and translator with a rich legacy of three decades of teaching English language and literature at G.D. Modi College of Arts in Palanpur. His poetic works have consistently graced the pages of national and international journals and magazines, earning him recognition in literary circles. His recent translation of Folk Tales of North Gujarat, soon to be published by Sahitya Academy, Gujarat reflects his deep commitment to preserving and sharing the region's cultural heritage.
Dr. Rishikesh Raval is a distinguished scholar, author, and educator with 27 years of experience teaching Gujarati at G.D. Modi College of Arts in Palanpur. He is an accomplished editor and writer, with 16 books to his name, and has guided 13 students to their Ph.D. degrees. Dr. Raval is also a respected figure in the world of Gujarati theatre, with extensive experience in directing and scripting plays. His contributions extend beyond academia, as he serves on the Technical Terminology Team with the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) in Delhi. Recognized with several prestigious awards, Dr. Raval is a prolific columnist, speaker, and subject expert, making significant contributions both nationally and internationally.
The epics of India, the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, are not merely narratives; they are cultural edifices that have shaped the contours of Indian thought, literature, and societal values for millennia. These epics, with their profound philosophical underpinnings, intricate storytelling, and timeless moral dilemmas, continue to resonate with audiences not just in India, but across the world. The international conference that culminated in the creation of this anthology brought together scholars from diverse backgrounds to explore the multifaceted impact of these epics on literature and society, a task both monumental and humbling in its scope.
The Mahabharata and the Ramayana have, over the centuries, transcended their original form and have been retold, reinterpreted, and reimagined in countless ways across different cultures and epochs. They have inspired literary works in almost every Indian language and have found echoes in global literature as well. The themes of dharma (righteousness), karma (action), and the eternal struggle between good and evil that these epics embody are universal, making them a fertile ground for endless reinterpretation.
In this anthology, we bring together a collection of scholarly papers that delve into the enduring impact of the Mahabharata and the Ramayana on literature and society. The contributors to this volume have examined the epics through various lenses-literary, philosophical, sociological, and even psychological-offering a rich tapestry of insights that reveal the depth and breadth of these ancient texts.
One of the central themes explored in this anthology is the evolution of literary traditions influenced by these epics. From classical Sanskrit literature to modern Indian vernaculars, the epics have been a constant source of inspiration. They have been the bedrock of genres ranging from poetry and drama to novelistic and short story traditions. Papers in this volume examine how authors have drawn from the characters, narratives, and ethical dilemmas of the Mahabharata and Ramayana to craft new works that speak to their own times and contexts. The adaptability of these epics is a testament to their timeless relevance, allowing each generation to find new meanings within their verses.
Another focus of this anthology is the social and ethical dimensions of the epics and their relevance in contemporary society. The Mahabharata and Ramayana are not just stories; they are moral treatises that provide guidance on issues ranging from personal conduct to governance. The discussions during the conference, as well as reflected in these papers of this anthology explore how the values espoused by these epics continue to influence social norms and ethical frameworks in modern times. The epics serve as a mirror to society, reflecting the complexities of human nature and the eternal quest for righteousness in a world fraught with moral ambiguity.
As a Sanskrit scholar deeply engaged with the study of Indian epics and their profound influence on literature and society, it is both an honour and a privilege to contribute to this anthology by writing this foreword. The conference on the impact of the Mahabharata and the Ramayana on Literature and society was a remarkable gathering of intellectual minds, bringing together scholars, writers, and thinkers from various disciplines and cultural backgrounds. The discussions that unfolded during this event were a testament to the enduring relevance of these epic narratives, which continue to inspire, challenge, and resonate with audiences across the globe.
The Mahabharata and the Ramayana are more than just stories; they are cultural blueprints that have shaped the moral, social, and philosophical frameworks of Indian civilization for millennia. These epics have provided an inexhaustible source of material for literary creation, ethical reflection, and cultural identity, not only within India but also in the wider world. The conference highlighted how these texts have been reinterpreted and reimagined through various lenses-be it literary, philosophical, sociological, or artistic-demonstrating their versatility and timeless appeal.
One of the key insights that emerged from the conference was the recognition of the universal themes embedded in these epics. Concepts such as dharma, karma, honour, and sacrifice, which are central to both the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, continue to find relevance in contemporary discourses on ethics and governance. The scholarly papers presented at the conference explored these themes in depth, revealing new dimensions and interpretations that resonate with today's societal challenges.
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