Bhima - Lone Warrior
- M T Vasudevan Nair
I became interested in picking this book because of the great feedback I read about the author, and particularly about this book.
The book was indeed very well written, and brought a unique perspective - the perspective of Bheem, who is usually ridiculed for his gluttony and lack of intelligence, known (and used) only for his physical strength. He is often ignored or slighted, but frequently called on for help, specially when the circumstances appear dangerous.
Most of the other
literature and adaptations do not portray him as a person who could have
finer feelings - which is one reason why this book is a refreshing
change. In this adaptation, Bheem is a sensitive individual, who
doesn't quite speak a lot, and his reserved speech that perhaps arises
from shyness or inability to express himself well, is misconstrued as
stupidity. He is hurt by lack of understanding shown to him by those
dear to him, but he is reluctant or unable to display it. His emotions
are depicted realistically and wonderfully, his disappointments,
frustrations, and regret at abandoning his wives and children.
The other reason I found it interesting was that the story is presented as a story of mortals (perhaps with some special skills), but without divine manifestations, and with some very interesting interpretations.
What I disliked most about it was the portrayal of Draupadi - insensitive and manipulative to the extreme, specially with regards to Bheema (well, since it is his from his viewpoint). As in almost all other interpretations, she is regarded as one of the main reasons for the Mahabharata war, while Kunti is the sacrificing, suffering mother - both of which I am inclined to disagree with.
I have never been convinced that Yudhisthir was justified to have the title of 'dharmraja', or even fit to be the king, and this story reaffirmed my opinion further.
The other reason I found it interesting was that the story is presented as a story of mortals (perhaps with some special skills), but without divine manifestations, and with some very interesting interpretations.
What I disliked most about it was the portrayal of Draupadi - insensitive and manipulative to the extreme, specially with regards to Bheema (well, since it is his from his viewpoint). As in almost all other interpretations, she is regarded as one of the main reasons for the Mahabharata war, while Kunti is the sacrificing, suffering mother - both of which I am inclined to disagree with.
I have never been convinced that Yudhisthir was justified to have the title of 'dharmraja', or even fit to be the king, and this story reaffirmed my opinion further.
