tataḥ śata-guṇaḥ varṇo tasya mahā-tmanas vavre

tataḥ (then) tasya (of that) mahā-tmanas (great being) śata-guṇaḥ (hundredfold) varṇo (splendor) vavre (appeared)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In his commentary on the Mahābhārata, particularly on verses related to the nature of the ultimate reality, Śaṅkarācārya emphasizes the non-dualistic interpretation. For the verse 'tataḥ śatagguṇa varṇo vavre tasya mahātmanaḥ,' the focus is on the transcendence of the mahātman (the great soul) beyond all attributes and limitations. This transcendence signifies the identity of the individual self (ātman) with the ultimate reality (Brahman), devoid of all distinctions and dualities. By assuming a colour a hundred times more brilliant, the great-souled one illustrates the infinite potential of the ātman that, when realized, surpasses all mundane descriptions. This interpretation aligns with Śaṅkarācārya's commentary on the Upaniṣads, where he consistently argues for the non-dual nature of reality, emphasizing that the ultimate truth is beyond all words and descriptions, yet it can be realized through the understanding of the ātman-Brahman identity. Thus, this verse, through the lens of Advaita Vedānta, serves as a metaphor for the boundless and attributeless nature of the ultimate reality that underlies all existence.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): From a Vaiṣṇava perspective, the verse 'tataḥ śatagguṇa varṇo vavre tasya mahātmanaḥ' can be seen as an illustration of the relationship between the jīva (the individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his Viśiṣṭādvaita Vedānta, would interpret this transformation of the mahātman as indicative of the soul's potential for spiritual growth and its eventual proximity to the divine. The 'colour a hundred times more brilliant' symbolizes the jīva's capacity to reflect the divine qualities of Īśvara, highlighting the intimate, though distinct, relationship between the two. This is in line with Rāmānujācārya's emphasis on the bhakti (devotion) path, where the jīva, through devotion and self-surrender, can attain a state of spiritual excellence, illustrated by the brilliance of the colour. Conversely, Madhvācārya's Dvaita Vedānta might view this verse as emphasizing the absolute distinction between the jīva and Īśvara, with the transformation of the mahātman serving as a reminder of the Lord's omnipotence and grace, which alone can elevate the jīva to a higher state of existence.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, a key figure in Neo-Vedānta, would likely interpret the verse 'tataḥ śatagguṇa varṇo vavre tasya mahātmanaḥ' in the context of practical spirituality and universal applicability. In his lectures and writings, Vivekānanda often emphasized the potential for human growth and the realization of one's inner divinity. The image of the mahātman assuming a colour a hundred times more brilliant can be seen as a powerful symbol of personal transformation and spiritual evolution. This verse, according to Vivekānanda's viewpoint, would represent the limitless potential within each individual, waiting to be unleashed through self-realization and spiritual practices. Similarly, S. Radhakrishnan, in his philosophical works, might view this transformation as emblematic of the human quest for meaning and the pursuit of the higher self. He would likely argue that this verse underscores the importance of recognizing and embracing one's own spiritual nature, thereby achieving a state of consciousness that transcends mundane limitations, leading to a more harmonious and enlightened existence. Both Vivekānanda and Radhakrishnan would connect this verse to the broader human experience, emphasizing its relevance in inspiring individuals towards a path of self-discovery and spiritual growth.

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