The "Mahabharata" is one of the two major Sanskrit epics of ancient India, the other being the "Ramayana." It is an epic narrative of the Kurukshetra War and the fates of the Kaurava and Pandava princes. The Mahabharata is attributed to the sage Vyasa and is composed of over 100,000 shlokas (verses) in Sanskrit. It is one of the longest epic poems in the world.
The Mahabharata is not just a story of a great war but also includes various sub-stories, philosophical and religious discussions, and teachings on dharma (duty/righteousness). The central theme revolves around the conflict between the Kauravas and the Pandavas, two branches of the Kuru dynasty. The Pandavas, consisting of five brothers—Yudhishthira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula, and Sahadeva—face numerous challenges and injustices, ultimately leading to the Kurukshetra War.
One of the most famous sections of the Mahabharata is the Bhagavad Gita, a conversation between Prince Arjuna and the god Krishna, who serves as his charioteer. The Bhagavad Gita addresses the concepts of duty, righteousness, and the nature of existence and is considered a sacred text in Hinduism.
The Mahabharata has had a profound influence on Hindu culture and philosophy. It has been retold and adapted in various forms, including plays, television series, and movies. The epic continues to be a source of inspiration and guidance for people in India and beyond.
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