Reclaiming the Mahabharata: Ranga Hari's Legacy Resonates at World Book Fair

New Delhi – A quiet storm of intellectual energy swept through the World Book Fair at Pragati Maidan as four seminal works by the late Shri Ranga Hari were unveiled. These weren't just any books; they were a re-examination, a reclaiming, of the Mahabharata, that epic tapestry of Indian culture and philosophy. Originally penned in Malayalam, these insightful explorations of key Mahabharata figures have now been translated into Hindi and English, broadening their reach and impact.

The launch itself was a significant event, drawing together academics, intellectuals, and students from across the country. The presence of J. Nandkumar, Akhil Bharatiya Sanyojak of Prajna Pravah, and Shri Prafulla Ketkar, Editor of The Organizer, signaled the importance of this literary endeavor. Prof. Shri Prakash Singh, Director South Campus, University of Delhi, presided over the proceedings, lending further weight to the occasion.

The books themselves delve deep into the complexities of characters often misunderstood or misrepresented. "Karna in Vyasa Mahabharata" and its Hindi counterpart, "Vyasa Mahabharata Mein Karna," both translated by Dr. K.C. Ajayakumar, offer a fresh perspective on this tragic hero. "Narada in Vyasa Mahabharata," translated by M. Rajasekhara Panicker, explores the multifaceted role of the celestial sage. And "Vyasa Mahabharata Mein Draupadi," translated by Prof. (Dr.) K. Vanaja, sheds new light on the powerful and resilient princess.

J. Nandkumar's address struck a chord with the audience. He spoke passionately about the need to return to the original source, to engage directly with Ved Vyasa's Mahabharata, and to understand these iconic figures as they were intended to be understood. He lamented the distortions and reinterpretations that have clouded our understanding of these characters, emphasizing the importance of works like Ranga Hari's that strive for authenticity.

Echoing this sentiment, Shri Prafulla Ketkar praised Ranga Hari’s dedication and meticulous scholarship. He stressed the urgency of revisiting the core principles and ideals embodied by the Mahabharata’s characters, and lauded Ranga Hari's tireless efforts to disseminate knowledge.

Prof. Shri Prakash Singh’s call to action resonated deeply. He urged the inclusion of such scholarly works in university curricula, advocating for a research-driven approach to culturally significant topics. He encouraged the young minds present to engage with these rich and complex narratives, to explore knowledge systems that are both historically and culturally enriching.

The event, skillfully moderated by Dr. Sanjay Verma of Delhi University, saw a vibrant exchange of ideas. Students and faculty from JNU, Delhi University, Gautam Buddha University, Noida, and other institutions across India were present, underscoring the widespread interest in Ranga Hari’s work.

Published by Kitabwale Publishers, New Delhi, these books represent more than just a literary achievement. They are a call for a deeper engagement with our cultural heritage, a reminder of the power of original texts, and a testament to the enduring relevance of the Mahabharata.

Shri Prashant Jain, Managing Director of Kitabwale, extended a warm welcome to the guests and offered a vote of thanks, bringing the event to a fitting close. The launch of Ranga Hari's magnum opus is not just a milestone in academic discourse; it is a significant cultural event, one that promises to spark debate, inspire research, and ultimately enrich our understanding of one of the world’s greatest epics.