Symbolic meaning of Dhritharashtra

There should be a connection between the self (Athma) ,  Intelligence (Buddhi) , Mind  and senses. The self (Athma) will direct one to goodness.  Intelligence has to understand the instructions of athma and has to be accepted by the mind. The mind gives directions to senses. In Mahabharatha, king Dhritharashtra symbolizes the failure of this connection. He was blind by birth. He was supposed to lead Kouravas to a goodness and righteousness, but did not do that. His wife, Gandhari could have guided her children to the right path, but she also blinded herself. They both symbolizes the same ignorant mind, intellect and senses.

Symbolic meaning of Lord Ganesha

Courtesy :http://www.hinduwisdom.info/Symbolism_in_Hinduism.htm

Life After Death - Katha Upanishad

The Lord Yama has given explanation about life after death to Nachikethas  in Katha Upanishad.

“That one who has no intellect, who has no control over his mind and who is dirty (in his mind and thoughts), he will not reach the destination (of the Supreme). He will continue to wander in this world through further births.”

“(On the other hand), that one who is full of intelligence and who has complete control over his mind and is very clean (in his mind and thoughts), he reaches that place from where nothing is ever born again. (the destination of the Supreme).” 

Courtesy : http://www.vedarahasya.net/katha-3.htm