🔆 Eklavya’s Story: A Tale of Merit, Privilege & Dharma 📍 The Legend of Eklavya ✅ Eklavya, a Nishad boy, was denied tutelage by Dronacharya due to his lower caste. ✅ Determined, he crafted a clay idol of Drona and self-trained in archery, becoming highly skilled. 📍 The Guru Dakshina & Its Impact ✅ Dronacharya, fearing a rival to Arjuna, demanded Eklavya’s right thumb as guru dakshina. ✅ Eklavya sacrificed his thumb without hesitation, yet continued to fight skillfully using leather gloves. 📍 Caste, Knowledge & Inequality ✅ The story reflects ancient India’s caste-based restrictions on education and skill development. ✅ Raises ethical questions: Did Drona uphold duty (dharma), or was it a form of systemic injustice? 📍 Modern Relevance ✅ Eklavya’s tale is often cited in debates on privilege, discrimination, and access to opportunities. ✅ It resonates with contemporary discussions on education, affirmative action, and social justice.