Karna's Journey in Mahabharat: Why His Story Still Resonates with Millions Today

Karna remains a tragic figure for millions of Hindus and Indians to this day. He remains a brave hero, a courageous spirit who braved impossible odds throughout his life, and died with terrific courage, valor, and honor, rising to immortality in fame. He is especially famous for his generosity. Karna is also an example of misjudgment and how it renders all the fine qualities of an individual futile.

Dear otp_mohan,

Thank you so much for this wonderful article. Our ancient literature is the source of infinite knowledge and wisdom. The character of Karna, who is endowed with all the good human qualities, yet suffers from the human and mortal folly of not being able to choose between the "Good or proper" and "the RIGHT".

It is good to be a faithful friend, but the RIGHT WAY is not to accompany him to the path of doom where he wants to go; but to bring him out of the thought and desire based on selfish motives which destroy a kingdom and people. In life, sometimes the most difficult decision is to choose between "the Good" and the "RIGHT". Only a truly enlightened mind can discern between the two choices.

Warm regards.

It is really great to see the article on Karna, who was the real hero of the Mahabharata epic. Even nowadays, for faithfulness, the definition is given in his name, even though he knows he is on the wrong team.

Thanks for sharing.

Hello otp_mohan,

Can you repost the attachment? I am unable to open it. Or if you can send it to me at [Login to view], that would be great.

You have also said it absolutely right: "He is also an example of misjudgment and how that renders all the fine qualities of an individual futile" -- that's what Krishna says in the battlefield when Karna is dying. You talk of dharma now when you are in trouble, but where was this dharma when Draupadi was being disrobed and when the Pandavas weren't given their share of the kingdom, etc. Maybe a lesson that 'the cock always comes home to roost' -- no escape from it. We see this trend/trait now quite often everywhere -- not just in India. S. Bhaskar mentioned the changed definition of 'faithfulness' nowadays: examples galore in our life today. But of course, life has to go on -- how depends on each individual alone.

Regards,
TS

Dear Mr. Mohan, Karna was trapped in the combined sins of the seven deadliest: PRIDE & ENVY. That's the main reason.

Regards, Anthony