Re-imagining Draupadi: Tracing the Journey from Nationalist Icon to Subaltern Voice in The Palace of Illusions

Abstract

The research paper aims to explore the evolution of the character of Draupadi in the Indian epic Mahabharata and how she has been portrayed in various adaptations throughout history. From being a simple housewife in the original epic to a nationalist icon during the colonial and post-colonial eras, Draupadi has undergone significant transformations in the way she is depicted. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in subaltern studies, which seek to shed light on the experiences and perspectives of marginalized communities. As a result, Draupadi has been reimagined as a subaltern figure, exploring the complexities of her experiences as a subaltern woman and a victim of political manipulation. This paper focuses on the subaltern portrayal of Draupadi in the novel The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee, where she is depicted as a courageous and bold woman who defies societal expectations and reclaims her agency. The study highlights the significance of revisiting ancient texts and reinterpreting their characters in light of contemporary perspectives. This research paper provides ample evidence of Draupadi's transformation from a nationalist icon to a subaltern subject in the novel The Palace of Illusions.