Shattering the Veil: Rediscovering the Power of Forgotten Mythical Woman Tara in Kavitha Kane’s Tara’s Truce

Abstract

The Ramayana and the Mahabharata have long been central to Indian cultural traditions, passed down through generations with countless retellings and interpretations. The Ramayana, with its captivating storyline and grand depiction of Ram, holds a revered place in the collective consciousness of the subcontinent. However, despite its focus on themes such as the conflict between powerful male figures, the victory of justice over injustice, obedience to parental authority, and the fulfilment of duty, the female characters have often been overlooked by the ancient storytellers.

Methodology: Qualitative research seeks to collect and analyse non-numeric data to understand an individual's social reality, including their attitudes, beliefs, and motivations. Information for the literature review is sourced from various materials, including educational websites, peer-reviewed journals, and online resources.

Findings and Result: This paper examines one such overlooked figure, Tara, the wife of the monkey king Vali and one of the Pancha-kanyas in Indian mythology. Drawing on various mainstream Ramayana versions, the paper highlights how male narrators have neglected Tara's story. Additionally, it explores how Kavita Kane’s recent novel Tara’s Truce (2023) brings Tara into focus, offering a female perspective and giving her the attention, she has long been denied.