Question 4 of 19intermediate💡 UnderstandShort Answer2 marks

The Mahabharata describes how, when war between the Kauravas and the Pandavas became almost inevitable, Gandhari made one last appeal to her eldest son Duryodhana:

"By making peace you honour your father and me, as well as your well-wishers ... it is the wise man in control of his senses who guards his kingdom. Greed and anger drag a man away from his profits; by defeating these two enemies a king conquers the earth ... You will happily enjoy the earth, my son, along with the wise and heroic Pandavas ... There is no good in a war, no law (dharma) and profit (artha), let alone happiness; nor is there (necessarily) victory in the end – don’t set your mind on war ..."

Does this passage give you an idea about the way in which mothers were viewed in early Indian societies?

Correct Answer

Yes, the passage does give an idea about how mothers were viewed in early Indian societies. Gandhari's appeal to Duryodhana shows that mothers were respected figures whose advice was valued. She speaks with authority on matters of dharma and artha, urging peace and wisdom, which suggests mothers had an important role in guiding their children.

However, we need to be cautious before drawing firm conclusions. While metronymics (names derived from mothers) were used by Satavahana rulers, succession to the throne was generally patrilineal. The passage reflects what the authors thought about mothers' roles rather than necessarily being literally true. Thus, while mothers were honoured and their advice mattered, the social framework largely prioritized sons for continuing the lineage.

Exercise: A mother's advice | Q: 1 | (Page 8)
For More Understanding

Explanation

The textbook presents a nuanced view. The Gandhari episode from the Mahabharata shows mothers as respected advisors who could speak on important matters like dharma and artha. However, Section 2.5 cautions students against jumping to conclusions - despite metronymics suggesting mothers' importance, patrilineal succession remained the norm. This teaches students to critically analyse historical sources.

Solution Steps

  1. Step 1: Identify evidence from the passage showing mothers were respected (Gandhari's authoritative advice)

  2. Step 2: Note the caution advised in Section 2.5 about drawing conclusions from metronymics

  3. Step 3: Conclude with a balanced view - mothers were honoured but patrilineal systems dominated

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