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VOL. 12, ISSUE 3 (2026)
Narratives of conflict and identity: A thematic analysis of Girish Karnad’s Yayati
Authors
Thimmanna T, Dr. Mahantamma
Abstract
Girish Raghunath Karnad is one of the most influential playwrights of
our time, engaging deeply with historical narratives and folktales in his work
to express the richness of Indian traditions through various themes and
techniques. His contributions to Indian theatre have earned him notable
recognition, including the Padma Bhushan, one of the country's highest civilian
honors, as well as the prestigious Jnanapith Award, which celebrates
outstanding contributions to literature. Originally, Karnad wrote his plays in
Kannada, showcasing the cultural nuances of his native language, but he later
translated them into several other languages to reach a wider audience. One of
his key works, Yayati, first penned in Kannada in 1961, marks Karnad’s debut in
the realm of drama and was subsequently translated into English by the
playwright himself. In this play, Karnad draws from historical and traditional
elements of the Mahabharata, using them as a framework to explore and critique
the irrationalities of human existence, alongside the poignant attachments that
define life. Furthermore, his work highlights significant contemporary social
issues within the context of post-Independence literature. The research paper
aims to delve into the thematic concerns presented in Girish Karnad’s Yayati,
while also reflecting on the evolving contemporary social issues faced within
post-colonial Indian society in today's context.
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Pages:31-33
How to cite this article:
Thimmanna T, Dr. Mahantamma "Narratives of conflict and identity: A thematic analysis of Girish Karnad’s Yayati". International Journal of English Research, Vol 12, Issue 3, 2026, Pages 31-33
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