Blind Love, Broken Sons: A Comparative Study of Parental Attachment and Mental Health in The Mahabharata and The Kite Runner

In a time of psychological change and developing mental health issues, revisiting the ancient wisdom related to Indian mythology and philosophy has significant therapeutic benefits. Ancient wisdom traditions offer timeless concepts that approach the fundamental problems and moral dilemmas of contemporary life, especially those derived from Indian philosophy, spiritual literature, and myth. Concepts
such as dharma (good living), karma (cause and consequence) and ahimsa (non-violence) are not just historical ideas; they serve as essential foundations for living a balanced, purposeful life. Emotional intelligence, self-control, resilience, and morality are all concepts addressed in the
Bhagavad Gita, the Upanishads, and epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Yoga and Ayurveda, two traditional Indian medicinal customs, promote harmony between the individual and the universe and support natural approaches to both physical and mental well-being. This study compares the psychological aspects of Khaled Hosseini's contemporary novel The Kite Runner and one of India's greatest epics,
The Mahabharata, highlighting significant similarities in how they treat moral conflict, trauma, guilt, and redemption.