Volume VI Special Issue III March 2026

Name of Author : V.Vanitha Jeyakumari, Dr.S. Ram Manohar Pari

Title of the paper : The Resemblance of Indian Mythology through the character of Draupadi in The Palace of Illusions

Abstract: Chitra Banerjee Divakarunis The Palace of Illusions 2008 is a modern retelling of the Indian epic Mahabharata from the perspective of Draupadi. Divakaruni, an Indian born writer educated in the United States, is known for exploring themes of cultural displacement, identity, and womens empowerment. This novel revisits Indian mythology by giving voice to Draupadi, a woman who was traditionally portrayed as a secondary figure in the epic. Through Draupadis narration, the novel presents a fresh feminist and womanist perspective on mythological history. The paper titled The Resemblance of Indian Mythology through the Character of Draupadi in The Palace of Illusions examines how Divakaruni reinterprets Indian mythology while highlighting the struggles and inner strength of women in a male dominated society. Female characters such as Kunti, Madri, Gandhari, Amba Shikandi, and Draupadi herself reflect sacrifice, suffering, resistance, and silent courage. Draupadis desire for education, her questioning of war, her forced polyandrous marriage, and her humiliation in the gambling hall expose the injustice faced by women since the time of the Mahabharata. The study also discusses key mythological concepts such as fate, karma, dharma, rebirth, and destiny. Draupadis life from her birth through divine fire to her death during the Himalayan journey symbolizes the pain and power of womanhood. By retelling mythology through Draupadis voice, Divakaruni challenges patriarchal norms and restores agency to female characters. This novel thus bridges ancient mythology and contemporary feminist thought, making Indian mythology relevant to modern readers.

Keywords : The Palace of Illusions, Draupadi Panchaali, Indian Mythology, Mahabharata Retelling Feminism and Womanism, Womens Identity and Empowerment, Patriarchy in Mythological Narratives

DOI :

Page Number : 270-275