Beyond Gender and Dharma: A Critical Study of Devdutt Pattanaik’s The Pregnant King

This article critically examines The Pregnant King by Devdutt Pattanaik as a significant work of contemporary Indian
mythological fiction that reinterprets ancient narratives to address modern concerns regarding gender, identity, and social structures.
The study explores how Pattanaik transforms the lesser-known myth of King Yuvanashva into a philosophical and socio-cultural
narrative that challenges rigid binaries of masculinity and femininity. Through the protagonist’s unusual experience of pregnancy, the
novel questions patriarchal definitions of gender roles, motherhood, kingship, and power. The article further analyses the concept of
dharma as presented in the text, emphasizing its contextual and flexible nature rather than its rigid moral interpretation. In addition, the
paper discusses the representation of gender fluidity, masculinity, feminism, and social exclusion within the framework of Indian
mythology. Pattanaik’s narrative style, symbolism, and use of mythological references are also examined to understand how
mythology becomes a medium for contemporary social commentary. The study argues that The Pregnant King not only revives ancient
Indian myths but also demonstrates their relevance in present-day discussions on identity, inclusivity, and human experience.
Ultimately, the article highlights the novel as a progressive literary work that advocates empathy, acceptance, and the recognition of
diverse identities beyond conventional social categories.