By Vaibhav Kumar Modi
The Mahabharata, an ancient Indian epic often referred to as the longest poem ever written, is more than just a tale of war and heroes. It’s a treasure trove of philosophical and ethical dilemmas that resonate across cultures and time. Let’s delve into the story of Shikhandi, a warrior whose actions during the great Kurukshetra war, the central conflict of the Mahabharata, blur the lines between self-interest and selfishness. Shikhandi’s unique journey and pivotal role in the war challenge us to explore the delicate balance between pursuing one’s goals and respecting the greater good.
Self-Interest and Selfishness in Dialogue: A Timeless Conundrum
The Mahabharata doesn’t simply narrate events; it stages a complex dialogue between contrasting ideas. It acknowledges the human instinct for self-preservation, echoing the ancient text Manusmriti’s assertion:
“Atmanam Rakshate Sarvatra”
(One should protect oneself at all costs)
([Manusmriti, Chapter 4, Verse 172])
This resonates with the natural desire for self-interest inherent in all beings.
From the perspective of dialogue, self-interest can be seen as the healthy assertion of one’s needs, desires, and perspectives within a conversation. It’s the voice that says, “This is what I want, this is what I believe.” However, the epic also cautions against the perils of unchecked self-interest morphing into ‘swārtha‘ (selfishness).
Selfishness, in the context of dialogue, manifests as a disregard for the needs, desires, and perspectives of others. It’s a monologue masquerading as a conversation, where one’s own voice drowns out all others. The Mahabharata reminds us that true dialogue requires a balance between asserting our own self-interest and actively listening to and respecting the self-interest of others.
Shikhandi’s Dilemma: A Multifaceted Exploration
Shikhandi’s story is one of the most intriguing in the Mahabharata. Born female but later transitioning to male, Shikhandi harboured a deep-seated desire for vengeance against Bhishma, who had wronged him in a past life. This personal vendetta fueled his self-interest in participating in the Kurukshetra war.
Furthermore, Shikhandi sought recognition and validation as a warrior, a desire that had been denied to him due to the complexities of his identity. The war presented an opportunity for him to prove his valour and secure his place in history.
Shikhandi played a pivotal role in the war by exploiting a loophole. Bhishma, a revered warrior on the opposing side, had vowed never to fight a woman. Shikhandi’s past identity became a strategic advantage for his side, the Pandavas.
This tactic has been met with both admiration and condemnation. Critics argue that Shikhandi’s reliance on his past female identity was manipulative, a discordant note in the symphony of honour and valour.
Yet, the Mahabharata encourages us to listen to the counterpoint. The Pandavas, fighting for their rightful inheritance that had been unjustly taken from them, represent the forces of ‘dharma’ (righteousness, duty, and cosmic order). Shikhandi,aligned with their cause, believed his actions were justified within this moral framework. His story challenges us to acknowledge that motivations are rarely pure, and actions can serve multiple purposes.
Self-Interest as a Catalyst for Dialogue: The Mahabharata’s Timeless Wisdom
Let’s be clear: Shikhandi’s actions were undeniably self-serving. He wanted to survive, contribute to the Pandava cause, and achieve victory. This desire for self-preservation is natural, even admirable. It’s the fuel that drives us to take action, to fight for what we believe in.
The key lies in how this self-interest is channelled. Shikhandi didn’t resort to treachery or underhanded means. He used a loophole within the existing rules of war, a strategy considered legitimate in its time. The epic itself, in the Vana Parva section ([Mahabharata, Vana Parva, Section CLXIV]), describes Bhishma acknowledging the validity of this approach. When questioned by Yudhisthira on the morality of using Shikhandi, Bhishma replies with a shloka (verse):
“Na striyah kshatriya yuddheshu dharma yukta bhavanti hi
Shikhandi tu striya rupah sa kasmaat pratiyudhyate”
(Women are not allowed to participate in the war as per dharma. But Shikhandi is no woman now. Why can’t he fight?)
This shloka highlights the distinction Bhishma makes. Shikhandi’s biological past does not negate his present identity as a male warrior. Bhishma, bound by his oath, is forced to stand down, showcasing that Shikhandi’s actions were a legitimate tactic within the established code of war.
Bhishma’s acceptance of Shikhandi’s right to fight underscores the importance of engaging in dialogue even amidst conflict. It is through dialogue that we navigate the complexities of self-interest and discern its ethical implications. The Mahabharata itself is a testament to the power of dialogue and the importance of considering multiple perspectives. The epic doesn’t offer easy answers but rather invites us to engage in a continuous conversation about the characters and their choices.
The Peril of Unbridled Selfishness
The Mahabharata also presents a counterpoint to Shikhandi’s narrative through the character of Karna. Karna, driven by personal vengeance and a thirst for glory, sided with the unjust Kauravas despite knowing their wrongdoings. His story serves as a stark reminder of the destructive potential of unchecked selfishness. Karna’s choices, while rooted in his own desires, ultimately contributed to the devastating consequences of the war, highlighting the dangers of allowing personal ambition to overshadow collective well-being.
The Dance of Dialogue: Self-Interest and Effective Communication
In the realm of dialogue, recognizing the interplay of self-interest and selfishness is paramount. Just as Shikhandi navigated the complexities of the battlefield, we too must navigate the nuances of conversation.
Effective dialogue requires a delicate balance. Acknowledging our own needs and desires is essential, but so is recognizing the perspectives of others. When self-interest dominates, dialogue can devolve into a monologue, hindering understanding and collaboration. Imagine a negotiation where one party is solely focused on their own gains, disregarding the needs of the other – a recipe for impasse.
Conversely, when we approach dialogue with an awareness of both our own needs and the needs of others, we create space for genuine connection and mutual growth. Just as Bhishma acknowledged Shikhandi’s right to fight, we too can foster an environment where diverse voices are heard and respected. Think of a team brainstorming session where each member feels empowered to share their ideas without fear of judgement – a breeding ground for innovation.
Understanding the dynamics of self-interest and selfishness also equips us with tools for conflict resolution. By recognizing when self-interest is clouding judgement or hindering progress, we can consciously shift towards a more collaborative approach.
Alignment of Self-Interests: A Path to Sustainable Solutions
Shikhandi’s story also illuminates the power of aligning self-interests towards a shared goal. While Shikhandi sought personal vindication and the Pandavas fought for their rightful kingdom, their individual desires converged into a collective pursuit of justice and ‘dharma’. This alignment of self-interests, while not devoid of complexities and moral ambiguities, ultimately led to a more sustainable resolution than the Kauravas’ blind pursuit of power fueled by selfishness.
In our own lives, whether in personal relationships, workplaces, or global conflicts, recognizing the potential for aligning self-interests can pave the way for collaborative and sustainable solutions. When we move beyond narrow self-centeredness and acknowledge the interconnectedness of our well-being with that of others, we create opportunities for win-win outcomes.
Finding the Balance: Beyond the Battlefield
In today’s world, where conflicts and moral dilemmas abound, understanding this delicate balance is more crucial than ever. Whether on the battlefield of ancient India or in the boardrooms and living rooms of today, Shikhandi’s story serves as a timeless reminder that pursuing self-interest need not be synonymous with selfishness. By engaging in open and honest dialogue, where diverse perspectives are valued and self-interest is tempered with empathy, we can navigate the complexities of human interaction with wisdom and compassion.