Many characters in The Mahābhārata go through several name changes. An example of this is Vasusena, whose name changes to Karna [the cutter] after his “act of unequalled generosity” (20) There are many metaphors for a name and the importance of a name. Frequently a birth name is a symbol of honor, a person’s heritage which we saw held great importance in establishing who you were in battle in the epic poem The Iliad. What do you think is the significance of a name in The Mahābhārata?
What does that significance hold for you – specifically how would you respond if your name was changed based on an action you committed, or if in general, names were changed based on ones actions.
References:
The Mahābhārata, Trans. Chakravarthi V. Narasimhan, Page 20
Picture from: http://www.moviewalah.com/diary/2006/08/30/mahabharata-your-cast
