The Mahabharata of Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa Translated into English Prose Adi Parva by Kisari Mohan Ganguli SECTION I Om! Having bowed down to Narayana and Nara, the most exalted male being, and also to the goddess Saraswati, must the word Jaya be uttered. Ugrasrava, the son of Lomaharshana, surnamed Sauti, well-versed in the Puranas, bending with humility, one day approached the great sages of rigid vows, sitting at their ease, who had attended the twelve years' sacrifice of Saunaka, surnamed Kulapati, in the forest of Naimisha. Those ascetics, wishing to hear his wonderful narrations, presently began to address him who had thus arrived at that recluse abode of the inhabitants of the forest of Naimisha. We are delighted to publish this classic book as part of our extensive Classic Library collection. Many of the books in our collection have been out of print for decades, and therefore have not been accessible to the general public. The aim of our publishing program is to facilitate rapid access to this vast reservoir of literature, and our view is that this is a significant literary work, which deserves to be brought back into print after many decades. The contents of the vast majority of titles in the Classic Library have been scanned from the original works. To ensure a high quality product, each title has been meticulously hand curated by our staff. Our philosophy has been guided by a desire to provide the reader with a book that is as close as possible to ownership of the original work. We hope that you will enjoy this wonderful classic work, and that for you it becomes an enriching experience.

The present book is a translation of original Mahabharata written by Vyasa in sanskrit prose. This translation has been carried out in the form of prose in the English language.

The Mahabharata is one of the most important and influential epics of ancient India, and the Virata Parva is where the story begins to take shape. In this book, readers will find a thrilling tale of politics, loyalty, and war as the Pandavas hide in the kingdom of Virata. This translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli captures the beauty and depth of the original text, making it accessible to modern readers. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

"The Mahabharata Vol. 4: Book 14" translated by Kisari Mohan Ganguli delves deeper into the rich tapestry of the epic Mahabharata, one of the most revered texts in Indian mythology. In this volume, readers are introduced to a pivotal segment of the epic, where the great war of Kurukshetra reaches its climax. Kisari Mohan Ganguli's masterful translation brings to life the intricate narratives, moral dilemmas, and profound teachings that permeate the Mahabharata. As readers delve into Book 14, they are transported to the battlefield where warriors from both sides engage in fierce battles, displaying their valor, skills, and unwavering dedication to their respective causes. This volume reveals the epic struggle between righteousness and vice, delving into the complex emotions, ethical quandaries, and deep-seated philosophies that shape the destiny of the characters. Ganguli's translation captures the essence of the original Sanskrit text, offering readers an opportunity to explore the intricacies of human nature, divine intervention, and the consequences of one's actions. "The Mahabharata Vol. 4: Book 14" serves as a window into the grandeur and depth of the Mahabharata, weaving together themes of duty, honor, love, and sacrifice. Kisari Mohan Ganguli's translation presents readers with a transformative reading experience, inviting them to reflect on the timeless wisdom and profound teachings encapsulated within this ancient epic.

"The Mahabharata Vol. 4: Books 16, 17, and 18" translated by Kisari Mohan Ganguli offer a comprehensive exploration of the epic Mahabharata, one of the most revered texts in Indian mythology. This collection of books covers the latter portion of the great epic, delving into significant events, intricate narratives, and profound teachings. Within these volumes, readers are taken on a transformative journey through the final chapters of the Mahabharata, witnessing the aftermath of the Kurukshetra war and the subsequent resolution of the epic saga. Kisari Mohan Ganguli's expert translation captures the essence of the original Sanskrit text, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the profound wisdom, ethical dilemmas, and divine interventions depicted in these books. In Books 16, 17, and 18, readers encounter pivotal moments, including the coronation of Yudhishthira as the king, the renunciation of worldly attachments by various characters, and the final journey of the Pandavas towards the heavenly abode. These books delve into philosophical discourses, moral teachings, and reflections on the nature of life, death, and the ultimate purpose of human existence. "The Mahabharata Vol. 4: Books 16, 17, and 18" provides a captivating conclusion to the epic tale, offering readers timeless wisdom and moral teachings that continue to resonate across generations.

The Bhagavad Gita, or the song of God, was revealed by Lord Shree Krishna to Arjun on the threshold of the epic war of Mahabharata. A decisive battle between two sets of cousins, the Kauravas and the Pandavas, was just about to commence on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. A detailed account of the reasons that led to such a colossal war is given under Introduction-The Setting of the Bhagavad Gita. The Bhagavad Gita is primarily a conversation between Lord Shree Krishna and Arjun. Yet, the first chapter begins with a dialogue between King Dhritarashtra and his minister Sanjay. Dhritarashtra being blind, could not leave his palace in Hastinapur but was eager to know the ongoings of the battlefield. Sanjay was a disciple of Sage Ved Vyas, the author of the epic Mahabharata and several other Hindu scriptures. Sage Ved Vyas possessed a mystic ability to see and hear events occurring in distant places. He had bestowed upon Sanjay the miraculous power of distant vision. Therefore, Sanjay could see and hear what transpired on the battleground of Kurukshetra, and gave a first-hand account to King Dhritarashtra, while still being in his palace.

"The Mahabharata Vol. 4: Book 13" is an exceptional literary work translated by Kisari Mohan Ganguli. This volume delves into the profound and epic tale of the Mahabharata, one of the most revered and enduring mythological texts of ancient India. Within the pages of this volume, readers will find themselves immersed in the captivating world of gods, heroes, and intricate human dramas. "Book 13" explores the climactic events leading up to the great Kurukshetra war, a colossal conflict between two royal families, the Pandavas and the Kauravas. Kisari Mohan Ganguli's translation of the Mahabharata beautifully captures the essence of the original Sanskrit epic, allowing readers to experience the intricate plotlines, ethical dilemmas, and timeless wisdom embedded within the narrative. "The Mahabharata Vol. 4: Book 13" presents a treasure trove of cultural and spiritual knowledge that continues to inspire and enlighten readers to this day. Whether one is well-versed in Hindu mythology or new to this ancient epic, this volume offers an immersive experience, providing a glimpse into a bygone era and a deep exploration of timeless human truths. Kisari Mohan Ganguli's translation of the Mahabharata invites readers to embark on a transformative journey, leaving an indelible impression on their hearts and minds.

It Is A Transformation Of An Ancient Legend Into A Modern Novel. In This Process, It Has Gained Rational Credibility And A Human Perspective. The Main Incident, The Bharata War, Symbolic Of The Birthpangs Of A New World-Order, Depicts A Heroic But Vain Effort To Arrest The Disintegration And Continue The Prevailing Order. It Is Viewed From The Stand Points Of The Partisan Participants And Judged With Reference To The Objective Understanding Of Krishna. Narration, Dialogue, Monologue And Comment All Are Employed For Its Presentation. Shot Through With Irony, Pity And Understanding Objectivity, The Novel Ends With The True Tragic Vision Of Faith In Life And Hope For Mankind.

Original publication and copyright date: 2001.