Exploring the Mahabharata: Best Books and Websites for Understanding this Epic

The Mahabharata is one of the most revered and complex works of Indian literature and mythology. This ancient epic covers a wide range of themes, including ethics, philosophy, and the nature of existence. If you're serious about understanding and appreciating its nuances, there are several resources available, from traditional translations to retellings that make it accessible to contemporary readers.

Understanding the Sources

There is no alternative to reading an unabridged text when it comes to truly understanding the Mahabharata. True-to-source translations are available in almost all languages. For those looking for accurate and detailed knowledge, I recommend the following resources:

Gita Press Translations

Gita Press, Gorakhpur has done an outstanding job with its Hindi translations of the Mahabharata. Their comprehensive edition, consisting of six volumes, includes the complete Sanskrit text along with its Hindi translation. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to read the original text as well as understand the context in Hindi.

English Translations

For those more comfortable with English, two renowned translators have provided detailed English versions. K.M. Ganguli is best known for his ten-volume translation, which is a faithful rendering of the entire epic. Another notable translation is by Bibek Debroy, also in ten volumes and published by Penguin Random House. Both options provide a comprehensive and detailed understanding of the Mahabharata.

Choosing the Right Resource for You

The choice of which resource to use largely depends on your interest level. Here are some recommendations based on your interest:

Basic Story Overview

If you're interested in getting a general idea of the basic story, but not deeply into each and every incident, I recommend the two-volume Hindi translation of the Mahabharata by Gita Press Gorakhpur.

Comprehensive and Detailed Study

For a more comprehensive and detailed study of the Mahabharata, you can choose the six-volume Sanskrit-Hindi translation by Gita Press Gorakhpur or the ten-volume English translations by K.M. Ganguli and Bibek Debroy.

Additional Resources for Deeper Exploration

Here are some notable books and websites that provide additional perspectives and insights into the Mahabharata:

C. Rajagopalachari's Retelling

C. Rajagopalachari has provided a concise and accessible retelling of the Mahabharata in a single volume. His version is a great introduction to the epic, particularly for those who are new to its narrative.

Ramesh Menon's Modern Retelling

Ramesh Menon's retelling is known for its modern language and engaging storytelling, which makes the Mahabharata more accessible to contemporary readers.

Kisari Mohan Ganguli's English Translation

Kisari Mohan Ganguli's translation of the Mahabharata is one of the earliest English translations, though the language may feel archaic. Despite this, it provides a comprehensive and faithful rendering of the epic, making it an excellent resource for deep study.

Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni's Feminist Perspective

Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni offers a unique perspective in her novel, “The Palace of Illusions”, which retells the Mahabharata from the viewpoint of Draupadi. This feminist reinterpretation provides a fresh and insightful look at the epic.

Whether you're interested in a traditional translation, a modern retelling, or a unique perspective, there are ample resources available to help you explore the rich and complex world of the Mahabharata. Choose the one that best suits your interests and needs!