The Mahabharata, an ancient Indian epic, stands as a monumental masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of time and culture. Composed in classical Sanskrit, this epic poem is not merely a narrative; it is a profound exploration of the human condition, ethics, and cosmic principles. As one of the longest literary works in the world, the Mahabharata is rich with many diversities, like intricate plots, diverse characters, and philosophical discourses, making it an inexhaustible source of wisdom and contemplation. The authorship of the Mahabharata is attributed to Vyasa.
Structure of the Mahabharata.
When we consider the structure of Mahabharata, is divided into multiple sections or parts, known as “Parvas.” Each Parva focuses on different phases of the narrative, and together they form the comprehensive structure of the epic. Here are the main parts or Parvas of the Mahabharata:
- Adi Parva (The Book of the Beginning): This is the first part of the Mahabharata, and it sets the stage for the epic. It includes the birth of the main characters, the Kuru lineage, and early events leading to the Kurukshetra War. Important stories in this section include the tale of King Shantanu and Ganga, the birth of the Kauravas and Pandavas, and the game of dice.
- Sabha Parva (The Book of the Assembly): This part narrates the events during the Pandavas’ exile and their attempts to regain their kingdom. The infamous game of dice, which leads to the exile of the Pandavas, is a central event in this Parva.
- Vana Parva (The Book of the Forest): During their exile, the Pandavas spend a significant period in the forest. This Parva includes various stories, teachings, and adventures that take place during their time in exile.
- Virata Parva (The Book of Virata): The Pandavas spend the last year of their exile in the kingdom of Virata in disguise. This Parva narrates their experiences during this time.
- Udyoga Parva (The Book of Effort): This Parva describes the diplomatic efforts to avoid war and the gathering of allies on both sides. The Bhagavad Gita is part of this Parva.
- Bhishma Parva (The Book of Bhishma): The actual battle of Kurukshetra begins in this section. Bhishma, the granduncle of both Pandavas and Kauravas, is the commander-in-chief of the Kaurava army.
- Drona Parva (The Book of Drona): This Parva focuses on the role of Dronacharya as the commander-in-chief after Bhishma’s fall. The tragic death of Abhimanyu occurs during this section.
- Karna Parva (The Book of Karna): This Parva narrates the role of Karna in the war. It includes the intense battle between Arjuna and Karna.
- Shalya Parva (The Book of Shalya): Shalya becomes the commander-in-chief of the Kaurava army after the death of Karna. This section includes the tragic end of the war.
- Sauptika Parva (The Book of the Sleeping Warriors): This Parva describes the night after the war and the killing of the remaining warriors.
- Stri Parva (The Book of the Women): This section deals with the aftermath of the war, including the grieving women and their conversations.
- Shanti Parva (The Book of Peace): This is one of the largest Parvas and contains the teachings of Bhishma to Yudhishthira on various aspects of life, ethics, and dharma.
- Anushasana Parva (The Book of Instructions): This Parva contains the final teachings and instructions of Bhishma to Yudhishthira.
- Ashvamedhika Parva (The Book of the Horse Sacrifice): The final Parva narrates the Ashwamedha Yagna conducted by Yudhishthira and the events following it.
- Swargarohana Parva (The Book of the Ascent to Heaven): The Mahabharata concludes with the Pandavas renouncing the world and beginning their journey to heaven.
Each Parva contributes to the overall narrative and encompasses various sub-stories, discourses, and dialogues, making the Mahabharata a rich and diverse epic.