1. ZENITH MALIK - Research Scholar, Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology, Patiala, Punjab.
2. Dr. DIKSHA SHARMA - Assistant Professor, Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology, Patiala, Punjab.
By foregrounding Panchaali’s voice, Divakaruni invites readers to reconsider the roles and agency of women not only in ancient mythology but also in contemporary society. Through an analysis of bliss and sadness, struggles and triumphs, heartbreaks and achievements, strengths and faults, the paper aims to uncover the depth and complexity of Panchaali or Draupadi’s character, “It is her life, her voice, her questions and her vision that I invite you into The Palace of Illusions” (Divakaruni 15). Divakaruni’s work unveils the narrative threads that have remained invisible within the male-dominated retellings of historical and mythological tales. By centring the experiences of women, she sheds light on overlooked aspects of these stories, offering fresh perspectives and insights that resonate with contemporary audiences.
Feminist Reinterpretation, Mythology, Mahabharata, Draupadi.