📘 Introduction
The Mahabharata is not just an ancient story — it’s the world’s longest epic, filled with lessons on life, dharma (duty), and humanity.
Written thousands of years ago, it still teaches us about right and wrong, courage, and destiny. Let’s explore 25 key facts every Indian should know about this timeless masterpiece.
1. What is the Mahabharata?
It’s an ancient Indian epic written in Sanskrit, describing the great war between the Pandavas and the Kauravas — two branches of the Kuru dynasty.
2. Who wrote the Mahabharata?
It was written by Sage Ved Vyasa, who also appears as a character in the story.
3. How old is the Mahabharata?
Scholars believe it was composed between 400 BCE and 400 CE, but the events likely happened thousands of years earlier, around 3000 BCE.
4. How long is the Mahabharata?
With over 100,000 verses, it’s about seven times longer than the combined Iliad and Odyssey.
5. What is the main story about?
It tells the story of a war between the Pandavas (who stood for truth) and the Kauravas (who stood for greed and power).
6. Who are the Pandavas?
The five Pandava brothers are Yudhishthira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula, and Sahadeva — sons of King Pandu and Queen Kunti (and Madri).
7. Who are the Kauravas?
The Kauravas were 100 brothers, sons of King Dhritarashtra and Queen Gandhari. Their leader was Duryodhana.
8. What caused the war?
The Kauravas cheated the Pandavas in a game of dice and took away their kingdom. After 13 years of exile, the Pandavas demanded their share, leading to the Kurukshetra war.
9. Where did the war take place?
The war happened in Kurukshetra, in today’s Haryana, India.
10. How long did the war last?
It lasted for 18 days and changed the course of Indian history.
11. What is the Bhagavad Gita?
The Bhagavad Gita is a sacred dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna before the war began. It teaches about duty, morality, and peace of mind.
12. Who was Lord Krishna’s role in the war?
Lord Krishna became Arjuna’s charioteer and spiritual guide, showing him the true meaning of life and dharma.
13. Who was Bhishma Pitamah?
He was the wise and powerful grandfather of both the Pandavas and Kauravas, known for his vow of celibacy and loyalty.
14. Who was Karna?
Karna was the first son of Kunti (before her marriage) and the half-brother of the Pandavas. His loyalty to Duryodhana and generosity made him one of the most respected warriors.
15. Who was Draupadi?
Draupadi was the wife of all five Pandavas. Her humiliation in the Kaurava court became a major reason for the war.
16. How many people fought in the war?
Ancient texts say about 4 million warriors fought in the Kurukshetra war — but only a few survived.
17. Who survived the war?
The main survivors were Krishna, the five Pandavas, Ashwatthama, Kripa, Kritavarma, and Yuyutsu.
18. What was the Pandavas’ kingdom called?
Their kingdom was Indraprastha — believed to be the modern city of Delhi.
19. What happened after the war?
The Pandavas ruled for many years, then left for the Himalayas to attain moksha (spiritual liberation).
20. What does the Mahabharata teach?
It teaches that truth and righteousness may take time but always win in the end. It’s about choosing dharma over desire.
21. Why is the Gita still important today?
The Bhagavad Gita helps people handle stress, confusion, and duty — lessons that apply even in modern life.
22. Is Mahabharata a true story?
Some parts are symbolic, but many believe it’s based on real events in ancient Indian history.
23. Can we visit Mahabharata sites today?
Yes! You can visit Kurukshetra (Haryana), Hastinapur (U.P.), and Indraprastha (Delhi) — all linked to the epic.
24. How does the Mahabharata end?
After their journey, Yudhishthira reaches heaven, symbolizing victory of truth and duty over greed and anger.
25. Why is the Mahabharata still relevant?
Because it reflects life itself — full of challenges, decisions, and moral choices that every person faces even today.
🕉️ In Short
The Mahabharata isn’t just a story about war — it’s about life, duty, relationships, and the eternal struggle between right and wrong.
📗 References
- “The Mahabharata” by C. Rajagopalachari (Concise English Edition)
- “Bhagavad Gita: As It Is” by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabh