A role model for every student, the character and sincerity of Eklavya exhibit commendable characteristics.
Eklavya’s dakshina of his right hand thumb to his guru ; Image Source: B.K. Mitra
The story of Eklavya comes with several lessons of life. From sincerity to caliber to devotion and discipline, Eklavya is the perfect example of the quintessential perfect student who learnt his skill of Archery without the formal guidance of the best teacher- Dronacharya.
A story for every generation and student
This was the era of Ancient India, somewhere around 9th century BC. During this time the society was strictly divided in Varnas on the basis of occupations of the masses. Every section of the society was governed by certain rules and regulations which were to be adhered to, strictly. One of the rules was, that a teacher or Guru to the princes of the kingdom was not allowed to teach anyone apart from the royal princes.
Perfect blend of determination and sincerity
So, the most respected Guru of Archery, Dronacharya who was the teacher of Arjuna was not allowed to teach anyone else. But a young boy who belonged to the tribes of the kingdom decided he wanted to learn and master Archery under Guru Dronacharya. However, due to the rules of the society, he could not become his disciple, at least officially.
So, Eklavya decided to learn Archery from Guru Dronacharya by sculpted a statue of Dronacharya to learn from him. He practiced for many years and became achieve excellence in Archery. He became so good that everyone stood up and noticed, including Arjuna. In fact, he became a better Archer than Arjuna, who was known as the best Archer.
His Devotion
When Guru Dronacharya came to know of his skills and the fact that he learnt from his statue, he visited Eklavya. Guru Dronacharya like everyone else was compelled by the law and had to make sure that his disciple, the royal prince Arjuna should remain undefeated by anyone for the security and honor of the kingdom. So, he asked Eklavya for his Guru Dakshina to which Eklavya readily agreed. Guru Dronacharya asked for his right thumb. Knowing fully well of the consequence that he will not be able to practice archery, Eklavya cut off his right thumb and gave his Guru Dakshina to Guru Dronacharya because in his opinion even a statue of Dronacharya was his best teacher. Witnessing the level of devotion, Guru Dronacharya bestowed him with the reward of Immortality.
Eternal Relevance to the Culture
Keeping aside the practices of the time and the loss of Eklavya, the relationship between Guru Dronacharya and Eklavya is an exemplary one. This story elaborates how exceptionally devoted a student need to be so as to achieve excellence. His obedience to his Guru shows his unwavering trust in his wisdom which worked very well for the future of the kingdom and victory of Pandavas over Kaurvas.
The story of Eklavya is celebrated and told to encourage purity in the relationship of a student and teacher. It is the perfect example of how a devoted student can affect the lives of the whole community. Eklavya is considered the most devoted student of Guru Dronacharya. As a student he was better that any student Dronacharya ever taught.
Model Student for the Modern Schools
His devotion is celebrated and honored even today. A scheme called “Eklavya Model Residential Schools” has been launched by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India to promote the middle and high-level school education of every student from the Scheduled Tribe community. It has been started so that every student gets an equal opportunity to learn and excel.
For the country of India, Eklavya will always be the perfect example of the most Devoted Student.
