The character of the Shadow, who appears throughout the play, represents the voice of reason and conscience. The Shadow is a symbolic figure, who speaks the truth to Tughlaq, but is ultimately ignored.
The play opens with Tughlaq's accession to the throne, where he announces his plans to move the capital to Daulatabad. His advisors and nobles are skeptical, but Tughlaq is convinced that this move will help to consolidate power and bring prosperity to the kingdom. tughlaq by girish karnad text
Another theme of the play is the nature of power and its corrupting influence. As Tughlaq becomes increasingly isolated and paranoid, he begins to abuse his power, using violence and intimidation to get what he wants. The character of the Shadow, who appears throughout