10. Shakuntala: Her Voice!

Seeing the great strength of the boy, Kanva spoke to his disciples, “Take Shakuntala with her son from the hermitage to her husband's house, which is blessed with all auspicious signs. It is not appropriate for women to live forever in their paternal or maternal homes. Such residence damages their good name, conduct, and virtue. Therefore, take her to her husband’s house without delay.”

Note: How? How could a girl who grew up in her own parental home with her siblings lose her good name, good conduct, and virtue if she stays with them after her marriage? This question raises profound inquiries about the nature of a woman's identity and societal perceptions. Doesn't she lose her good name, good conduct, and virtue after marriage while living with her husband? What are the odds? This dilemma illustrates a paradox where a woman's worth seems to be judged more by her marital status and living arrangements, like a piece of art hanging on the walls of her husband's house that boosts his image. Isn't that a woman's choice to make? If there is no choice (per Vyas), isn't that her husband's duty to preserve her good conduct, good name, and virtue? If her husband fails in his utmost duty, whom should society blame -her or her husband? This presents a critical examination of accountability and the expectations placed upon men in their roles as husbands and protectors. What basis did Vyas have for this statement? Was it the growth of a boy? The implications of such beliefs suggest a deep-seated cultural narrative that prioritizes patriarchal authority over individual agency. Who is making all the decisions for Shakuntala at this point? Kanva, an unmarried adopted father? Is this the origin and foundation of that line of thinking? The dynamics of power and decision-making in Shakuntala's life raise important questions about autonomy and the influence of family structures on personal choices.

The dedicated followers of Kanva, having undertaken the task, departed with Shakuntala and her son for the city of Hastinapur. The lady, renowned for her exquisite eyebrows, accompanied her son, who possesses lotus-like eyes and celestial beauty, and left the forest where she first met Dushyanth.

Note: Does Shakuntala have any say in this matter? Where was her voice? She follows whatever decisions others make on her behalf like a good girl.