Indian Epics in Modern Retellings: A Comparative View

Introduction

Indian epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana have shaped the cultural and moral landscape of the subcontinent for centuries. These are not just stories but reservoirs of wisdom, guiding individuals and societies through themes of duty, love, sacrifice, and justice. While they were composed thousands of years ago, their retellings in modern times have breathed fresh life into them, making them more relatable and relevant to contemporary audiences.

Having studied English Literature and Comparative Indian Literature at the University of Delhi and now working as an Editorial Assistant at the National Book Trust, India, I have always been fascinated by how these epics adapt to new contexts. Their ability to stay alive in public consciousness through retellings, reinterpretations, and adaptations speaks volumes about their timeless appeal.

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The Universal Appeal of the Epics

What makes the Ramayana and Mahabharata so enduring? At their core, these epics address universal questions about the human condition. How do we navigate complex moral dilemmas? What does it mean to live a life of dharma (righteousness)? How do love, power, and ambition shape our relationships and destinies?

The Mahabharata, for example, is often called the longest epic in the world, with over 100,000 verses. It is not just a story about the Kauravas and Pandavas but a grand narrative encompassing philosophy, politics, spirituality, and human emotions. The Ramayana, on the other hand, presents a more straightforward tale of good versus evil but is layered with nuanced questions about loyalty, justice, and human imperfection.

These themes are as relevant today as they were centuries ago, which is why modern writers, filmmakers, and thinkers are drawn to reinterpret them.

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Retelling Through Literature

Retellings of these epics in modern literature have brought forth perspectives that were previously overlooked or unexplored. Let’s consider some notable examples:

• Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s The Palace of Illusions This groundbreaking novel reimagines the Mahabharata through the eyes of Draupadi, one of its most enigmatic characters. Traditionally seen as a catalyst for the Kurukshetra war, Draupadi is often reduced to her role as a wife and queen. Divakaruni, however, portrays her as a multi-dimensional woman grappling with love, ambition, and agency.

“A problem becomes a problem only if you believe it to be so. And often others see you as you see yourself.” This quote from the novel encapsulates Draupadi’s internal struggle, making her deeply relatable to modern readers.?

• Amish Tripathi’s Ram Chandra Series Tripathi, known for his mythological reimaginings, takes a fresh approach to the Ramayana. In his series, Sita is not just Rama’s devoted wife but a fierce warrior and leader. By humanizing the characters and exploring their vulnerabilities, Tripathi gives readers a more relatable and layered narrative.
• M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s Randamoozham (The Second Turn) This Malayalam masterpiece tells the story of the Mahabharata from Bhima’s perspective. Often overshadowed by Arjuna, Bhima emerges as a complex character who feels both pride and resentment. The novel questions the traditional hero-villain dichotomy, showing that morality is rarely black and white.
• Devdutt Pattanaik’s Works Pattanaik’s books, such as Jaya and Sita, simplify and reinterpret the epics for a modern audience. With a focus on the philosophical underpinnings of these tales, Pattanaik highlights their relevance in contemporary life.

“Myths are truths that are not always factual but convey a deeper understanding of life.”

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The Epics on Screen

Modern retellings aren’t limited to books. The visual medium has played a significant role in bringing the epics to new audiences.

• Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan First aired in 1987, this television series became a cultural phenomenon, with streets across India emptying during its broadcast. Its traditional storytelling and adherence to Valmiki’s text made it a household favourite.
• B.R. Chopra’s Mahabharat Similarly, this television adaptation captivated viewers with its grand scale and powerful performances. The opening verse, “Main samay hoon” (I am time), remains iconic.
• Contemporary Adaptations In recent years, filmmakers have attempted to bring the epics to the silver screen. While some, like Adipurush, have sparked debates over creative liberties, others have pushed boundaries in storytelling and technology.

Streaming platforms have also given creators the freedom to explore darker and more nuanced retellings, such as Karm Yuddh, which reimagines epic battles in modern political settings.

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The Need for Retellings

Retellings aren’t just about presenting old stories in a new format—they are about making these stories relevant to changing times.

• Shifting Perspectives Modern retellings often highlight voices that were marginalized in the original texts. For instance, feminist reinterpretations give characters like Draupadi and Sita their due agency.
• Challenging Stereotypes By humanizing gods and heroes, retellings make them more relatable. They also question traditional ideas of good and evil, showing that morality is complex and situational.
• Global Relevance Indian epics have universal appeal, and retellings make them accessible to international audiences. Translations and adaptations bridge linguistic and cultural gaps, spreading the wisdom of these tales worldwide.

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A Living Tradition

As P. Lal, founder of the Writers Workshop in Kolkata, aptly said,

“Epics are not static; they grow with us. Each retelling is a reflection of the times in which it is created.”

This is the beauty of the Mahabharata and Ramayana—they are living traditions. Every generation brings its own lens, interpreting these stories in ways that resonate with their realities.

Conclusion

Indian epics are not relics of the past but dynamic narratives that continue to evolve. Through retellings, they remain relevant, offering insights into human nature and society. Whether through books, films, or TV, these reinterpretations challenge us to see these ancient tales with fresh eyes, ensuring their place in the hearts of generations to come.

As someone deeply connected to literature and storytelling, I find immense joy in exploring these retellings. They remind us that while times change, the essence of humanity remains the same—and that’s what makes these epics truly timeless.

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