The Dynamics of Karma in Kavita Kane's Lanka's Princess: A Critical Reading through the Lens of the Indian Knowledge System

Indian knowledge systems refer to the tremendous intellectual and philosophical heritage and tradition that originated on the Indian subcontinent in ancient times. India is known for its principle of "Vasudeva kutumbhkam" that considers the whole world as one family. This knowledge has been transmitted orally and later transcribed into the great Vedas, including the Rigveda, Atharvaveda, Samveda, and Yajurveda, as well as the great epics Mahabharat and Ramayan, by our great sages and intellectuals. These texts posit not only the mores and value systems of those times but also offer a golden passage for future generations to follow. Contemporary society is suffering from many problems, not only on the national level but also on the international level. Driven by epicureanism and philistinism, people worship Mammon that leads to degradation, ironically, instead of prosperity. Though we may generalise the problem by putting it under the study of Mythology and culture, it’s rooted in a specific moment also. The metanarratives exhibit this perennial problem from East to West discourse. Every culture encapsulates certain concepts that fuel and sustains its society, explaining and commenting on day-to-day life. The Greek world drew its inspiration from Hesiod’s Theogony (730-700 BC) and later on Bible, Egyptian people obeyed Old Testament (1100-960 BC), the Persian people followed Avesta (1500-400 BCS), Torah (450-350 BC) regulated the Jews and even before these holy texts certain belief systems and faiths modulated the world. Hinduism is said to be the oldest religion in the world, and its oldest scripture is the Rigveda, written (1500-1100 BC)