Draupadi: an inspiration for Chanakya?

Tags

arthshastra, chanakya, chandragupta, crime and punishment, danda-neeti, draupadi, eloquence, governance, hair, Mahabharata, sama-dama-danda-bheda, shikha

 

The exotic and fiery Empress of Indraprastha. {5000 B.C.E}

The homely and cool headed diplomat cum Kingmaker. {370 B.C.E}

What possible thread could bind them?

 

I] The loosened HAIR, the oath for REVENGE:

Chanakya was insulted in full court by King Dhanananda. Stung at this barb, Chanakya unfurled his shikha (knotted braid) and swore not to tie it until Dhanananda’s evil rule was demolished.

Sounds FAMILIAR?

Draupadi, heinously insulted in Hastinapur’s court. Verbally, physically and psychologically – swore not to braid her hair until her sinners, the Kauravas were avenged in battle.

In both cases, their righteous rage led to a ‘Constructive Destruction’,