Entrapped anti-villains: Karna and Ekalavya in Anand Neelakantan’s Ajaya Series

Author(s)	Ms. Sharunyadevi P, Dr Reshmi K
Country	India
Abstract	This paper delves into the portrayal of anti-villainesses through the nuanced narrative of Anand Neelakantan’s Ajaya: Roll of Dice and Rise of Kali, a reimagined version of the Mahabharata that emphasizes the perspectives of those typically viewed as adversaries. This paper examines, through the lens of social entrapment theory relies on Sociological frameworks by Joel Brockner and Jeffrey Z. Rubin, arguing that ‘villainy’ results from prolonged entrapment rather than being an inherent characteristic. The article addresses the current lack of understanding about how social structures trap morally dubious characters and their psychological consequences, which drag them to a point beyond redemption. By re-conceptualizing Ekalavya and Karna as entrapped anti-villains, this research uncovers the influence of entrenched social hierarchies and cultural norms in determining their destinies.
Keywords	Anti-villains, Social Entrapment, Psychological Entrapment, Tipping point.
Field	Sociology > Linguistic / Literature
Published In	Volume 7, Issue 5, September-October 2025
Published On	2025-09-30
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i05.56547

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