Introduction

While Arjuna, the son of Lord Indra, is depicted as possessing both divine and human qualities in the great epic Mahabharata, there are varying interpretations and perceptions of his character. Some scholars and readers often highlight his flaws and the "shades of evil" attributed to him, while others celebrate his virtues and valor. This article explores these contrasting perspectives and questions whether it is indeed our perception that clouds our views of Arjuna.

The Perception Dilemma: Seeing Arjuna Through a Different Lens

One common saying is that "everything looks yellow to a jaundiced eye." Are we, as readers or analysts, missing a clear and balanced perspective on Arjuna by perceiving him through a lens that emphasizes his negative attributes? It is often overlooked that the Mahabharata does not consistently portray Arjuna as "evil." In fact, characters such as Krishna, Ved Vyasa, and Parshurama view him favorably.

Positive Portraits of Arjuna: Insights from Mahabharata

1. Ved Vyasa: Known for his sagacity, Ved Vyasa is often seen as a definitive authority on Arjuna. He does not label Arjuna as evil but instead identifies him with Nara, an ancient seer. This association suggests that Arjuna embodies noble qualities.

2. Krishna: The divine charioteer of Arjuna, Krishna consistently refers to Arjuna as sinless (Nemitra). In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna asserts that those who love Arjuna are, in essence, loving Him. This highlights the deep spiritual connection and high regard in which Arjuna is held.

3. Parshurama: Although Parshurama praises other warriors, he also commends Arjuna for his valor. Notably, Parshurama labeled other warriors as deceitful, indicating a relative respect for Arjuna's integrity.

4. Bhishma, Drona, and Ashwatthama: These prominent figures in the Mahabharata consistently praise Arjuna, singling out his valor and skills. They never mention his evil deeds, emphasizing his positive qualities.

5. Dhritarashtra: While recognizing his sons for their transgressions, Dhritarashtra expresses concern over the righteousness of his actions. He remains agnostic regarding the Pandavas, including Arjuna, questioning whether any of them have ever committed unrighteous deeds.

6. Karna: A rival to Arjuna, Karna nevertheless admired him and sought to surpass him in valor. Karna never called Arjuna evil, instead regarding him as a formidable and valiant warrior.

The Blessings of Lord Shiva

The highest accolade for Arjuna comes from none other than Lord Shiva, who bestowed upon him the most powerful weapon known in the world – the Pashupatastra. Such a divine favor is unlikely to be accorded to an evil or deceitful person. If Lord Shiva granted this power to Arjuna, it underscores his moral and just character.

Conclusion: A Balanced Understanding of Arjuna

The portrayal of Arjuna in the Mahabharata presents a nuanced character, endowed with both positive and negative traits. The conflicting views of his negative attributes may be a result of selective reading or biased interpretation. Arjuna is not the "dark character" he is sometimes perceived to be. Instead, he is a complex individual who, like many heroes, struggles with ethical dilemmas and wrongdoing as any human does but ultimately emerges as a figure of valour, integrity, and divine benevolence.

Further Reading and Exploration

For those interested in deeper insights and demystifying the narrative of the Mahabharata, I invite you to join our space, The Mahabharata Project. We aim to provide a more demythified and holistic understanding of this ancient epic. Additionally, my novel, The Accursed God, offers a unique perspective on the Mahabharata, making it an Amazon #1 bestseller.