The Mahabharata

About

The Mahabharata is an ancient Indian epic that explores themes of duty, honor, and righteousness through a complex narrative of a great war between two groups of cousins, the Pandavas and the Kauravas. This epic poem, composed between 400 BCE and 400 CE, is divided into 18 sections, known as parvans, and includes a supplement called the Harivamsha. It is attributed to the sage Vyasa, who appears within the story as the grandfather of both sets of cousins. The Mahabharata delves into moral and philosophical teachings, emphasizing the concept of dharma, or righteous living, which guides the actions of its characters. The story begins with the struggle for succession between the blind king Dhritarashtra's sons, the Kauravas, and his brother Pandu's sons, the Pandavas. Key events include a game of dice that leads to the Pandavas' exile and a subsequent war at Kurukshetra. The epic features notable characters like Krishna, who supports the Pandavas, and explores themes of justice, morality, and the consequences of one's actions. The Mahabharata is not only a tale of good versus evil but also a rich tapestry of philosophical wisdom, reflecting on the human condition and the pursuit of righteousness.