Frequently asked questions
What is the Mahabharata?
The world's longest epic, the story of the war between the Pandavas and Kauravas at Kurukshetra, containing the Bhagavad Gita.
Who wrote the Mahabharata?
Tradition credits the sage Vyasa, who dictated it to Ganesha; it reached its present form over several centuries.
How long is the Mahabharata?
About 100,000 verses in eighteen books (parvas), the longest epic poem in the world.
What is the Mahabharata war?
The eighteen-day war at Kurukshetra between the Pandavas and the Kauravas over the throne of Hastinapura.
What is contained in the Mahabharata?
Besides the main story, the Bhagavad Gita, the Vishnu Sahasranama, and many sub-tales and teachings on dharma.
Sources
- Mahabharata, Critical Edition (BORI, Pune)
- Kisari Mohan Ganguli, English translation
- Gita Press and modern retellings
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