Ekalavya's Sacrifice

The Story of Ekalavya

Ekalavya, a tribal prince, desired to learn archery from Dronacharya, the guru of the Pandavas and Kauravas. However, Dronacharya refused to teach him because of his caste. Undeterred, Ekalavya practiced archery in front of a clay idol of Dronacharya, considering him his guru. He became an exceptional archer. When Dronacharya discovered Ekalavya's skill, he asked for Ekalavya's right thumb as guru dakshina (offering), effectively ending his archery prowess. This story raises questions about social injustice and the sacrifices made for devotion and duty.