# Mahabharata

> ancient Sanskrit epic by Vyasa

**Wikidata**: [Q8276](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q8276)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahabharata)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/mahabharata

## Summary
The *Mahabharata* is an ancient Sanskrit epic poem attributed to the sage Vyasa, classified as both a literary work and a religious text. It is one of the two major Sanskrit epics of India (*Itihasa*), alongside the *Ramayana*, and consists of 18 books (*Parvas*) that narrate the Kurukshetra War and its aftermath.

## Key Facts
- **Author**: Attributed to Vyasa, a divine sage in ancient India.
- **Classification**: Literary work, religious text, and epic poem.
- **Structure**: Composed of 18 books (*Parvas*), including *Adi Parva* (first book) and *Shanti Parva* (twelfth book).
- **Related Works**: Includes the *Bhagavad Gita* and *Harivamsa* as subsidiary texts.
- **Part of**: *Itihasa*, the two major Sanskrit epics of India.
- **Aliases**: *Jaya*, *Mahâbhârata*, *Mahābhārata*, *Mahabharatam*.
- **Sitelink Count**: 167 (indicating widespread online references).
- **Wikipedia Title**: *Mahabharata*.
- **Wikidata Description**: "Ancient Sanskrit epic by Vyasa."

## FAQs
- **What is the *Mahabharata*?**
  The *Mahabharata* is an ancient Sanskrit epic attributed to Vyasa, consisting of 18 books that detail the Kurukshetra War and its aftermath, serving as both a literary work and a religious text.

- **Who wrote the *Mahabharata*?**
  The *Mahabharata* is traditionally attributed to Vyasa, a divine sage in ancient India, though its authorship is debated among scholars.

- **How many books are in the *Mahabharata*?**
  The *Mahabharata* is divided into 18 books (*Parvas*), including *Adi Parva* (first book) and *Shanti Parva* (twelfth book).

- **What is the relationship between the *Mahabharata* and the *Bhagavad Gita*?**
  The *Bhagavad Gita* is a subsidiary text within the *Mahabharata*, embedded in the *Bhishma Parva* and serving as a primary holy scripture for Hinduism.

- **Is the *Mahabharata* considered a religious text?**
  Yes, the *Mahabharata* is classified as a religious text alongside its literary and epic poem classifications.

## Why It Matters
The *Mahabharata* is a foundational text in Hinduism, influencing moral philosophy, law, and cultural narratives. Its themes of dharma (duty), karma (action), and the consequences of war continue to resonate in Indian society. As one of the two major *Itihasa* epics, it shapes religious and literary traditions, with its subsidiary texts like the *Bhagavad Gita* further cementing its spiritual significance.

## Notable For
- **Comprehensive Narrative**: Covers the Kurukshetra War and its aftermath across 18 books.
- **Religious Authority**: Includes the *Bhagavad Gita*, a central text in Hindu scripture.
- **Cultural Legacy**: Serves as a repository of ancient Indian values, ethics, and historical accounts.
- **Epic Structure**: One of the longest narrative poems in world literature, detailing heroic deeds and philosophical teachings.

## Body
### **Classification and Structure**
The *Mahabharata* is classified as a literary work, religious text, and epic poem. It consists of 18 books (*Parvas*), each with distinct themes. The *Adi Parva* introduces the epic, while the *Shanti Parva* concludes with the peace treaty between the Pandavas and Kauravas. Key subsidiary texts include the *Bhagavad Gita* and *Harivamsa*.

### **Authorship and Attribution**
Traditionally attributed to Vyasa, a divine sage, the *Mahabharata* is considered a compilation of earlier texts. Its authorship is debated, with some scholars suggesting multiple contributors over centuries.

### **Themes and Influence**
The epic explores dharma, karma, and the consequences of war, influencing Hindu philosophy, law, and ethics. The *Bhagavad Gita*, embedded in the *Bhishma Parva*, is its most famous subsidiary text, offering teachings on yoga and spiritual duty.

### **Related Works and Connections**
The *Mahabharata* is part of the *Itihasa*, alongside the *Ramayana*. It includes episodes like *Nala and Damayanti* and features characters such as Virāṭa. The *Harivamsa* and *Bhagavad Gita* are also closely associated with the epic.

### **Cultural and Historical Significance**
As a religious text, the *Mahabharata* shapes Hindu traditions, with its narratives and philosophical teachings enduring for millennia. Its influence extends beyond India, impacting South Asian cultures and literature.