Girish Karnad: Controversial obituaries

How is a writer or an artist recognized and understood by the society or nation? People critique a writer for the conflicting matters included in his/her work. Girish Karnad, a significant figure in Indian literary tradition, as well as in the nation's politics; passed away on 10th June 2019. And people's, especially media's reactions were varied. Some celebrated the death of an Urban Naxal while some mourned the death of a versatile artist, playwright, and actor. The reason why he faced criticism even at his death was because he raised his voice against religious fundamentalism and strongly advocated freedom of expression. This controversy clearly reflects how hypocritical society is even in today's time. It praises a writer if he/she stays obedient to its ideologies and never questions them; while it condemns the same person if that doesn't happen. Literature, we all know would always stand against the authoritative majority. There is no established truth in literature; it is always elusive and based on subjective experience.

Considering the significance of Karnad's works in changing the perspectives of people towards mythology, history, and socio-cultural problems at large. A true obituary for him then would be to remember his works and ideas and to think about them.

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