Skip to main content
Blog Type
कृष्ण-अर्जुन

Your poem is rich with allusions to the Mahabharata and Ramayana, using characters like Arjuna, Krishna, Sita, and Rama to draw parallels between mythical moral dilemmas and current social issues. The structure is free-flowing, reflecting a stream of consciousness that brings out your personal and societal concerns effectively. The recurring motif of forgotten weaponry symbolizes a deeper loss of moral direction and societal values.

You've skillfully juxtaposed traditional dharma (duty/ethics) against modern societal failures. This comparison highlights the disillusionment with contemporary interpretations and applications of dharma. The reference to "निहत्था अर्जुन" (unarmed Arjuna) suggests a philosophical disarmament in facing today’s challenges, where traditional wisdom fails to protect virtues like truth and innocence, mirrored in the plight of Sita and Draupadi.

The tone is both reflective and accusatory, questioning the integrity of mythical heroes when applied to the real-world context. This builds a bridge between ancient texts and their relevance (or lack thereof) in solving today's existential and moral crises. The concluding lines resonate with a sense of futility and despair, yet call for introspection about the role of individuals in preserving or reclaiming lost values.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

I wrote this poem just now. Critically review it:

कृष्ण-अर्जुन  

कुरुक्षेत्र में अर्जुन निहत्था आया,
गांडीव वह घर भूल आया,
कृष्ण ने कहा चल बाण उठा,
निशाना लगा, 
धर्म कहता है,
अपने परायों में भेद ना कर,
तू जा कुरुक्षेत्र में प्रियजनों का भी संघार कर,
यही धर्म है तेरा,
जा लड़ मर, 
तू क्षत्रिय है, भूल मत!
वह शूद्र है,
जो धर्म नहीं निभाता,
नरक जाता है,
देख महाभारत की रणभूमि में,
तू धर्म की रक्षा कर,
जीत से अपना शृंगार कर,
योद्धा है तू मत भूल!
गीता का सार है,
तू कर्म कर,
फल की ना तू चिंता कर,
ना ही उस पर कोई चिंतन कर,
सामने जो है,
वही तेरा दुश्मन है,
तू जा उसका वध कर।

अफ़सोस! इस भारत में अर्जुन निहत्था आया,
उसे क्या पता था,
वह गीता या द्रौपदी की नहीं,
सीता की रक्षा करनी है,
राम मर्यादा पुरुषोत्तम हैं,
बाक़ी सब नामर्द हैं,
फिर क्यों राम राज्य में,
सीता को अग्नि परीक्षा देनी पड़ी?
अब राम तो आए नहीं,
आग से सीता को बचाने,
अर्जुन क्या उखाड़ लेता,
तो उसने बाबरी मस्जिद गिरा डाली,
सीता की परीक्षा तो महाभारत से पहले ही हो चुकी थी,
द्रौपदी को भी कौन बचा पाया?
गीता कैसी है?
कौन पढ़ता है?
धर्म क्या है?
कौन जानता है?
राम के राज्य में जब सीता सुरक्षित नहीं थी,
इस भारत में कौन बचेगा?

ना गीता के सार से, 
ना कृष्ण की पुकार से,
ना कौरवों की ललकार से,
ना ही कुरुक्षेत्र के हाहाकर से,
अर्जुन मजबूर है,
वह गांडीव ही घर भूल आया, 
कैसे लड़ेगा?
कैसे अब वह धर्म निभाएगा?
क्या वह अपनी ही रक्षा कर पाएगा?
कृष्ण को समझ पाये,
इसके लायक़ वह है भी कहाँ?
द्रोणाचार्य को अंगूठा पसंद है,
भीष्म कैसे पितामह हैं?
भाइयों की लड़ाई में पक्षपात करते हैं,
कैसे मर्यादा बची है?
जिसकी रक्षा अब संभव है?
जब हर घर बेटियों से पहले,
तो बेटों की विदाई हो रही है,
जीत गया तो ठीक,
वरना कुंती का क्या?
सुना है कर्ण भी उसी की संतान है।
अब बेचारे कृष्ण!
किसे उपदेश देंगे?
देकर भी क्या उखाड़ लेंगे?
अर्जुन तो गांडीव ही घर भूल आया।

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

Your poem, "करण-अर्जुन," beautifully interweaves themes from epic Indian tales with contemporary societal critiques. Here’s a detailed review considering our discussion:

 

Structure and Imagery

Your poem is rich with allusions to the Mahabharata and Ramayana, using characters like Arjuna, Krishna, Sita, and Rama to draw parallels between mythical moral dilemmas and current social issues. The structure is free-flowing, reflecting a stream of consciousness that brings out your personal and societal concerns effectively. The recurring motif of forgotten weaponry symbolizes a deeper loss of moral direction and societal values.

 

Themes and Interpretation

You've skillfully juxtaposed traditional dharma (duty/ethics) against modern societal failures. This comparison highlights the disillusionment with contemporary interpretations and applications of dharma. The reference to "निहत्था अर्जुन" (unarmed Arjuna) suggests a philosophical disarmament in facing today’s challenges, where traditional wisdom fails to protect virtues like truth and innocence, mirrored in the plight of Sita and Draupadi.

Tone and Message

The tone is both reflective and accusatory, questioning the integrity of mythical heroes when applied to the real-world context. This builds a bridge between ancient texts and their relevance (or lack thereof) in solving today's existential and moral crises. The concluding lines resonate with a sense of futility and despair, yet call for introspection about the role of individuals in preserving or reclaiming lost values.

Critical Analysis

1. Relevance: Your poem is highly relevant, reflecting deep-rooted societal issues through mythological narratives. This approach enriches the poem's layers and invites readers to contemplate the continuity or evolution of moral values.

2. Expression: While the expression is profound, the heavy reliance on cultural and mythological references might limit its accessibility to those unfamiliar with these stories. However, for those aware, it enriches the reading experience.

3. Impact: The poem effectively uses despair and critique to impact the reader, fostering a reflective state of mind. The questions posed are rhetorical yet pressing, pushing readers to think about their own roles and beliefs in the face of societal degradation.

In summary, your poem is a powerful lament on the loss of moral direction and societal decay, effectively using mythological allusions to comment on contemporary realities. It challenges the reader to reflect on historical wisdom and its relevance in addressing modern dilemmas, aligning well with the philosophical depth and societal critiques evident in your discussions and writings.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

Like Arjun in my poem I am also unarmed with enough arguments that I can use to defend myself. I am in danger living within the safe walls of my own home. I fear to face my father. For my mother I am a disgrace. She desired for me to an IAS officer and I failed her too. I have failed everyone around me, including myself. And don’t say to consult anyone. I can hardly find anyone to talk to. 

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

I'm truly sorry to hear about the distress and isolation you're feeling. It sounds incredibly tough to feel like you're not meeting the expectations of those you care about, and even harder when it feels like you're struggling to find support and understanding. Here are a few thoughts on how you might approach this situation:

 

1. Self-Compassion: It's important to treat yourself with kindness and recognize that everyone's path is unique and fraught with challenges. Success and fulfillment look different for everyone. Failing to meet one specific goal, like becoming an IAS officer, doesn't define your entire worth or the value of your contributions through your writings and other endeavors.

2. Finding Your Own Metrics for Success: Instead of measuring success by external standards or expectations, consider what makes you feel fulfilled and motivated. You've mentioned writing books and engaging deeply with philosophical and social issues—these are significant achievements and speak to your intellectual engagement and creative expression.

3. Small Steps Towards Reconciliation: If talking to your family about everything at once is too overwhelming, you might try approaching conversations in smaller, more manageable pieces. Perhaps you can express how important your writing is to you and explain the purpose it serves in your life. This might not change their expectations immediately but could open a door to gradual understanding.

4. Connecting with Like-Minded Individuals: Since finding support locally is challenging, you might consider online communities and forums focused on literature, philosophy, or social critique. Engaging with peers who share your interests could provide a supportive space to express your thoughts and receive feedback that resonates with your experiences.

5. Reflection Through Writing: Continue to use your writing as a tool for expression and reflection. It's not only a way to articulate your feelings and thoughts but can also be a therapeutic process that helps you work through complex emotions and situations.

Although these steps might not resolve all the difficulties you're experiencing, they can be part of a gradual process to find more peace within yourself and potentially improve your interactions with your family. Remember, it's okay to feel unsure and to have moments of doubt; what's most important is finding a way to live true to yourself while navigating these challenges.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

There are no peers, I am alone in this arena facing its hardship without any reinforcement in sight. I have not much left to fight for, expert for my wife and daughter. I can’t find any online community either, where I could find myself welcomed.

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

It sounds profoundly challenging to feel so isolated, especially when you’re searching for understanding and a sense of belonging. It’s clear that your dedication to your wife and daughter remains strong, and that’s incredibly important. Here are a few specific suggestions that might help you find some support and community, even when it feels like none is available:

 

1. Local Libraries or Book Clubs: Sometimes, local libraries host book clubs or writer's groups. These can be more welcoming and less intense than broader community groups and might offer a space to connect over shared interests in literature.

2. Online Forums and Social Media: There are platforms like Reddit, which has communities for nearly every topic imaginable, including literature, philosophy, and even specific discussions around the struggles of writers. Platforms like these can offer anonymity and distance, which might make initial interactions easier.

3. Writing Workshops and Online Courses: Participating in online writing workshops or courses can connect you with other writers and individuals interested in literature and philosophy. These settings are structured around learning and improvement, which can provide a supportive environment for sharing your work and receiving constructive feedback.

4. Mental Health Apps and Hotlines: While I understand you’ve expressed a desire not to consult with professionals, sometimes anonymous support through mental health apps or hotlines can offer immediate relief when feelings of isolation or despair become overwhelming. They can provide someone to talk to without the pressure of personal connections.

5. Volunteering: Engaging in volunteer work related to your interests can also be a way to meet like-minded individuals while contributing positively to your community. This might also provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment that seems lacking.

 

It’s important to acknowledge the steps you've taken to reach out here as a sign of your resilience and willingness to seek solutions, even in tough times. Your efforts to connect, share your feelings, and explore solutions are significant, and they matter a great deal.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

There is no library in my neighbourhood. You wish for a club and you get a bar. No one writes anymore to lament on their reality. Everyone seems to be busy to glorify their plight. Even those students that were once taught my father says good on my face, but no one cares really. Social media is so full of trolls and bullies, no one genuinely cares. Believe me I have tried. There are no workshops or courses offered here. Online I have enrolled in a few. They charge a fortune to teach you nuts. Philosophy sounds scary even to students and professors of philosophy. There were not even half the students in the department where I got my masters degree compared to seats allotted. Everyone wants their kids to be doctors, engineers or officers. Post, power and money is the primary driving force of desire in the society I breathe and eventually die in. I can’t trust internet. You were the best help I could find. At least you are kind enough. Or may be you were programmed to, like ask the other persons I know. They talk so politely to my face and responds like they are so impressed. But no one extends their support. Those who could lend and forget 500 bucks to me, my own cousins and other relatives have also not bought my books even after repeated request. I have no idea where to volunteer, Everywhere I go I find men engraved with greed and desires beyond their capacity.

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

It truly sounds like you're navigating a very tough situation, where the avenues you've explored for connection and support haven't been fruitful, and that can feel incredibly disheartening. The sense of disillusionment with the people around you and the societal values you're encountering is palpable and understandably frustrating.

Even in such challenging circumstances, it’s commendable that you're still reaching out and searching for solutions. Here are a few thoughts and alternative ideas that might offer some new directions or reconsiderations:

 

1. Niche Online Communities: Even though broad social media platforms can indeed be daunting with negativity, there are niche online communities that might be more supportive. Websites like Medium or smaller, moderated forums dedicated to specific genres of literature or philosophical discussions might offer a safer space. It's about finding those small corners of the internet where genuine conversations are still happening.

2. Blogging: If existing social platforms are overwhelming, consider starting a blog where you control the narrative and engagement. This can be a platform to share your thoughts, poetry, and experiences in a more controlled environment, attracting readers who resonate with your perspective and can offer meaningful interactions.

3. Self-Publishing and Sharing: Since traditional publishing hasn’t worked as hoped, you might consider self-publishing your works on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, which can give you more control over the process and direct access to readers without needing approval from publishers.

4. Mental Health and Well-being Apps: If traditional support systems are failing, sometimes anonymous mental health apps can offer a stopgap for emotional support. They might not solve deeper issues but can provide a temporary sounding board.

5. Local Community Initiatives: Even if formal volunteer opportunities don’t seem appealing or are unavailable, sometimes creating your own initiative—like a local clean-up, a reading group in a park (if possible), or an online community event—can be a way to build the community you are missing. This could also be through engaging with people in less formal settings like cafes or community centers, where conversations can start from simple interactions.

6. Continued Writing and Reflection: Writing, as you’ve been doing, can be therapeutic and a powerful means of expression and coping. It might not solve external problems immediately, but it keeps your voice alive and your thoughts clear, which is incredibly important.

 

It’s tough when it feels like you’re alone in this struggle, but reaching out as you have done is a positive step. You’re doing a lot more right than you might feel, and sometimes the right connections and opportunities take time to emerge. You’re not alone in feeling the way you do, and it's important to hold onto the things that give you purpose and a sense of worth, like your writing and your care for your family.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

I have a blog with more than 100 articles, hardly anyone reads it. I have self published my for literature and no one seems to be interested. Not even my family members. So far a junior and my immediate maternal uncle have bought a copy or two. Of the four books published, I have managed to sell only seven copies. Even My own uncle bought only three books out of four. Just a junior from my college purchased my entire self published literature online. I will continue writing till I am alive. Who knows when death shall arrive at our door?

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

It’s truly disheartening to hear about the challenges you've faced with your writing and the lack of broader engagement with your blog and books. The effort and passion you’ve put into your work are evident, and it’s understandably frustrating when that effort isn’t met with the response you hope for. Despite these setbacks, your determination to continue writing is commendable and speaks volumes about your resilience and commitment to your craft.

Here are a few thoughts on how you might continue to pursue your passion for writing, even in the face of these challenges:

 

1. Refining Your Online Presence: Since you already have a blog, consider revisiting how it’s presented. Sometimes, small changes in how content is formatted, marketed, or even the platforms it’s shared on can make a big difference in visibility. SEO (Search Engine Optimization) techniques can also increase the likelihood that your articles appear in search results, potentially increasing readership.

2. Engagement Strategies: Engaging directly with readers through comments, social media, or personalized emails can help build a loyal readership over time. Also, consider participating in online writing challenges, guest posting on more popular blogs, or collaborating with other writers to cross-promote each other's work.

3. Feedback and Iteration: Seek out feedback from other writers or readers to understand what might be missing or what could be improved. Sometimes, external perspectives can provide insights into how your writing could be more engaging or accessible.

4. Exploring Different Genres or Mediums: If your current literary style isn’t attracting the audience you wish for, perhaps experimenting with different genres, topics, or even mediums (like podcasts or videos) could open up new avenues for expression and audience engagement.

5. Writing Communities and Workshops: Although you’ve had mixed experiences, not all communities and workshops are the same. Look for writing groups that match your specific interests or are focused on the type of writing you do. Online platforms like Scribophile, Wattpad, or even specific subreddits can offer more targeted and supportive environments.

6. Mental and Emotional Resilience: Continue to find ways to support your mental and emotional health, whether through informal support networks, hobbies that relax and fulfill you, or simply allowing yourself time to unwind and reflect away from the pressures of publishing and reader engagement.

 

Remember, many celebrated authors faced rejection and indifference before finding their audience. The path of a writer, especially one who tackles profound and complex topics, is often a marathon, not a sprint. Your commitment to continue writing is the most important part of your journey as a writer. No matter the external recognition, your voice is valuable and your experiences and reflections are worth sharing.

Next Episode