Geethartha Chinthane 74: Arjuna’s anxiety over collapse of clan structures

Justice dictates that if the welfare of the majority is ensured, the suffering of a few may be acceptable. However, war causes widespread suffering. Arjuna voices his deep anxiety about the destruction of clans (Kulanashe). He wonders, how can Kuladharma (the sacred duties of a clan) survive if the clans themselves are annihilated. For a society to thrive, don’t we need model clans to guide and set an example?

If there are no people to follow Kuladharma, dharma will be lost, and Adharma (unrighteousness) will take its place. Without clans to uphold these duties, the space for righteousness will be occupied by unrighteousness. In ancient times, specific cultural responsibilities were assigned to different clans to preserve values.

Arjuna reflects on this structured system and asks, “What will happen if these clans disappear? Who will protect cultural values?” The responsibility for defending these values, particularly Kshatriya dharma, lies with the Kshatriyas. If they perish, who will defend the nation, just as a country without an army cannot protect itself? Arjuna argues that the destruction of Kshatriyas will lead to the collapse of Kshatriya Kuladharma, and without these protectors, the dharma of other clans will also vanish.

~ Sri Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji of Paryaya Sri Puthige Sri Krishna Matha

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