Arohi Publications
MAHABHARATA AND POLITICAL SCIENCE: A 360° ANALYSIS
The Mahabharata is not just an epic but a political-philosophical treatise. The Shanti Parva (Book of Peace), in particular, contains extensive discourse on politics, governance, ethics, diplomacy, war, justice, and leadership.
1. Rajdharma (राजधर्म) – Duties of the King
Meaning: The king is the upholder of Dharma (moral order).
Key Teachings:
Kings are not above law.
Welfare of subjects (Praja) is supreme.
Must be impartial, righteous, and accessible.
Modern Relevance:
Foundation of constitutional morality and Rule of Law.
Connects with Rawlsian justice, Ambedkar’s constitutionalism.
2. Dharma (धर्म) – Moral Law or Righteousness
Definition: Beyond religion—moral obligation, justice, truth.
In Politics:
No political legitimacy without ethical grounding.
Ends must not justify unethical means.
Modern Relevance:
Gandhian politics, non-violence, and truth as public ethics.
Dharma as a political check on realpolitik.
3. Dandaniti (दण्डनीति) – Politics of Power & Punishment
Concept: Proper use of force (Danda) to maintain law, order, and justice.
Krishna’s Actions: Represent strategic and ethical use of power.
Modern Link:
Similar to Kautilya’s Arthashastra.
Connects with Realism in international relations.
4. Nyaya (न्याय) – Justice
Key Teachings:
Justice should be impartial and swift.
“One unjust act by a ruler is enough to ruin an entire kingdom.”
Modern Connection:
Reflects judicial independence, public accountability.
Ambedkar’s concept of constitutional justice.
5. Rajya (राज्य) – The State
Characteristics:
Based on Dharma and people’s welfare.
Not merely coercive but ethical and welfare-based.
Link: Aligns with welfare state ideas in the Indian Constitution (Art 38, 39).
6. Leadership Qualities (राजा के गुण)
Ideal Ruler (Rajarshi):
Self-control, moral strength, patience, listening skills, war-readiness.
Vidura Neeti: A part of Mahabharata that outlines ideal traits of a leader and advisor.
Modern Usage:
Civil services leadership qualities.
Ethical administration practices.
7. Shanti Parva (शान्ति पर्व) – Political Philosophy
Core Themes:
Governance based on Dharma.
Responsibilities of rulers and ministers.
Importance of education, peace, justice.
Philosophical Value:
Merges idealism and realism.
Seen as a precursor to modern political ethics.
8. War Ethics – Yudh Niti (युद्ध नीति)
Examples:
Krishna’s advocacy of just war.
Use of strategy (e.g., Bhishma’s fall, Karna’s curse).
Modern Relevance:
Comparable to Just War Theory (Augustine, Aquinas).
Basis of Geneva Conventions, humanitarian law.
9. Women and Politics
Draupadi’s Sabha Experience:
Raises questions of women’s dignity, role in governance, voice against injustice.
Gandhari’s Wisdom:
Women’s insight often ignored, yet politically crucial.
Modern Link:
Early roots of feminist political discourse, gender justice.
10. Karma (कर्म) and Consequences
Doctrine:
Every action (even political) has moral consequences.
Lesson:
Ethical governance is not only preferable but inevitable.
Implication:
Role in administrative accountability and ethical decision-making.
MAHABHARATA AS A POLITICAL TEXT
| Theme | Political Science Equivalent |
|---|---|
| Dharma | Constitutional Morality |
| Rajdharma | Responsible Governance |
| Dandaniti | Political Realism |
| Vidura Neeti | Civil Service Ethics |
| Yudh Niti | Just War Theory |
| Sabha-Parishad | Proto-Parliamentary Institutions |
