Karna and Arjuna: Beyond The Popular Mahabharata Narrative

The Pandavas Also Faced Great Hardships

Singh has tried to bring about the commonality of struggle between Karna and the Pandavas while disputing the idea of Karna being the unluckiest. Singh mentions the plight of the Pandavas since their birth, living in forests, losing their father young, the harassment they faced once they moved to Hastinapur and of course Bhima being targeted on multiple occasions.

Yet, Singh continues, the Pandavas established their identities through skill. In particular, Arjuna proved to Dronacharya that he was the best through his hard work and devotion. Dronacharya then took a pledge to make Arjuna the best in the art of archery.

From Lakshagriha to Building of Indraprastha

Another huge task arose for Pandvas after being banished to the Lakshagriha where an attempt was made to burn them alive. It was yet another plight which Pandvas overcame and continued to face further ordeal, later on Arjuna gained Draupadi in her swayamvar and Pandvas built Indraprastha from undeveloped territories..

Through the game of dice it brought them in a difficult situation wherein not only they lost the kingdom but also had to spend 13 years in exile during which they had to live under disguise. It is suggested by Singh that Pandvas have also gone through numerous struggles.

Was Karna Denied Education Because of his Caste?

There exists another widely circulated thought regarding Karna, which the author contests; he had been denied education due to his caste by Dronacharya. Contrary to popular belief, Singh suggests that according to Karna, it is evident he has taken lessons from Dronacharya, and Parashurama too. Singh is to infer that Dronacharya taught Karna, nonetheless withholding the knowledge of Brahmastra.

Karna later, taking lessons from another guru also underwent training but discovered that Guru found out the truth behind Karna's concealment and cursed him in the time of need, to forget all he has gained as lessons.

What Happened in the Rangbhoomi?

Singh also denies another public myth about Karna's display on the Rangbhoomi saying that this event in history has no link to ordinary battlefields and was just intended for an exhibition of the powers of the young Princes. On Arjuna successfully proving his mettle, Karna entered and performed with equal competence, was appreciated whole-heartedly and thus Duryodhana hugged him . Karna then challenged Arjuna to contest for battle.

Looking at the Complete Story of Mahabharata

The above discussion provides a broader perspective as compared to what is seen over Karna or any other character through an approach from various angles of characters from Mahabharata and not just the stereotype representation of Karna.