I figured as there's no thread for this epic poem that is so important to Indians, I would create a thread to discuss it, mostly as I'm interested in hearing the opinions of posters here on this story.
For those who don't know, the Mahabharat is one of the most important pieces of literature in not just India, but most of South Asia, especially for those who are Hindu. It's the longest poem in the world about the story of an epic war between families, with an incredible amount of depth. For Hindus the literature is of huge importance as it teaches about the key concepts of Hinduism including Artha, Kama, Dharma and Moksha.
It's set during a time of Gods and Demons, Kings and princes, sages and wise men, and covers all aspects of life from conflict, duty in society to love.
It's popularity in India is probably greater than any other literature ever written, and a tv series created decades ago became one of the most popular shows in history. I remember watching it as a child and even though I was too young to understand it fully, I was completely gripped by the show and would watch it regularly with my family.
There are many scientists who have also dedicated their research and life to finding out whether the events of the Mahabharat actually took place.
The Mahabharat is highly influencial on my life, and importantly, I find it always teaches me something new and always brings me joy. So what are the opinions of others here about this poem? I also would very much like to hear the thoughts of those who may not know much about the Mahabharat.
Full Version: Mahabharat
its cool i like it, you human
Its suppose to be the World's Longest Poem as well! I remember watching a play about it on TV many years ago. Its a very long epic.
^^ Yep, world's longest poem. So how did you guys come across it? If I remember rightly neither of you are Indian right? So basically was it through friends, interest in the culture or maybe just something that caught your eyes?
About the Mahabharat...
Split into 18 sections (parva, listed here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahabharata) the Mahabharat is about a struggle between two branches of a family warring over control for the throne of Hastinapura. The conflict ends in the battle of Kurukshetra, where a number conflicts between family and friends occurs. It ends with Lord Krishna's (the 8th incarnation of hindu God Vishnu) death and thus the beginning of the Kaliyug, the dark age as according to Hindu Astrology (the age we live in).
The story obviously precedes the Kaliyug with the events of the story as follows (source: http://www.hindunet.org/hindu_history/anci...b_patnaik.html)
About the Mahabharat...
Split into 18 sections (parva, listed here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahabharata) the Mahabharat is about a struggle between two branches of a family warring over control for the throne of Hastinapura. The conflict ends in the battle of Kurukshetra, where a number conflicts between family and friends occurs. It ends with Lord Krishna's (the 8th incarnation of hindu God Vishnu) death and thus the beginning of the Kaliyug, the dark age as according to Hindu Astrology (the age we live in).
The story obviously precedes the Kaliyug with the events of the story as follows (source: http://www.hindunet.org/hindu_history/anci...b_patnaik.html)
QUOTE
1. Karna's Birth : Magha Bright half 1st day. It is said that he was older than Yudhisthira by 16 years.
2. Emperor Pandu reached Mount Saptashrunga in Paramodoota Ashwin Bright 5th day. Just one year after Yudhisthira was born.
3. Yudhisthira's Birth : Yudhisthira was born on Pajothpatti Ashwin Bright 5th day, in Jyeshta Star, in Sagittarius Lagna, at midday Abhijit Muhurta. That was just years. 127-5-25 prior to Kaliyug (roughly 3229-8-15 B.C)
4. Bhima's Birth : Bhima was born on Agnirasa Ashwin dark 9th day in Magha Star, after midday. He was younger than Yudhishtira by 1 year and 19 days.
5. Arjun's Birth : Srimukha Phalguna Full Moon Day during the day in Uttara Star. Younger than Bhima by yr. 1-4-21
6. Nakula and Sahadev's Birth : Bhava Phalguna New Moon day, Midday, in Star Ashwini. Younger than Arjuna by yr. 1-0-15
7. Lord Krishna was born on Shrimukha Shravana Dark 8th day, just after midnight in Taurus Lagna.
8. Duryodhana's Birth : Just one day after Bhima's birth. From that day onwards everyday the rest 99 Kauravas and their sister were born. Similarly, Hidimba, Baka and Kichaka were born in the same period between Magha and Swati Stars.
9. Emperor Pandu expired on Sarvadhari Chaitra Bright 12th day in Uttara Star. Arjuna was then yrs. 14-0-7 days old. Yudhistira was then yrs. 16-6-7 years old.
10. Pandavas were brought in Hastina on Sarvadhari Chaitra Dark 13th day, that is, 16 days after their father's death. Death rituals lasted for 12 days from Sarvadhari Chaitra Dark 13th day to Vaishakh Bright 10th day. Yudhisthira was 16 years, 6 months and 28 days of age.
11. Pandavas stayed in Hastinapur for 13 years from Sarvadhari Vaishakha Bright 10th day to Plava Vaishakha Bright 10th day. Yudhisthira was yrs. 29-6-23 days old. They learnt archery under Drona.
12. Archery exhibition : Plava Vaishakha Full Moon Day.
13. King Drupada taken captive : Fight with Drupada from Plava Vaishakha Dark 5th day for a period of of yr. 1-4-5 days, that is upto Shubhakrit Bhadrapada Bright 10th day. Yudhisthira was yrs. 31-0-5 days old.
14. Yudhishthira ws made Crown-Prince on Shubhakrit Ashwayuja Bright 10th day when he was 31-0-5 days old.
15. Pandavas stayed at Hastinapur for yrs. 5-4-20 days, upto Plavanga Maagha New Moon Day. Yudhishthira was yrs. 36-4-25 days old.
16. Entered Varnavrata : Plavanga Phalguna Bright 8th Day. Yudhishtir was yrs. 36-5-3 days old.
17. The Lac Palace was set on fire on Keelaka Phalguna 13/14th Day night in the third Jhamu or Quarter. ( A day consists of 8 prahars, 4 during day time and 4 during night.) Pandavas crossed river Ganga on Keelaka Phalguna New Moon Day morning.
18. Demon Hidimba was slain : on Sowmya Chaitra Bright 1st Day. 19. Ghatotkacha was born on Sowmya Ashwin Bright 2nd Day, and he grew up as an adult immediately.
20. Pandavas stayed in Salihotashramam for 6 months, that is from Sowmya Ashwayuja Bright 2nd Day to Sadharana Chaitra Bright 2nd Day. Yudhishtira was yrs. 38-5-7 days old.
21. Panadavas lived in Ekachakrapuram for 6 months from Sadharana Chaitra Bright 2nd Day to Ashwayuja Bright 2nd Day.
22. Demon Baka was slain : on Sadharana Bright 10th Day. Yudhisthira was yrs. 39-0-5 days old.
23. Pandavas stayed in Ekachakrapuram for 1 month 10 days more, upto Sadharana Margashirsha Dark 5th Day. Then they headed for Panchal Kingdom, and in 3 days reached Dhoumya's Ashram. They stayed there for 15 days, and on the 18th day, reached the capital of Panchal Kingdom, that is, on Sadharana Pausha 7th Day.
24. Princess Draupadi's Swayamvaram took place on Sadhrana Pausha Bright 10th Day.
25. In Panchala Kingdom, Pandavas stayed there for yr. 1-0-15 days, that is, tiil Virodhikrithu Pausha New Moon Day. Yudhishthir was yrs. 40-3-25 days old.
26. Pandavas were recieved in Hastinapur on Virodhikrithu Maagha Bright 2nd Day and were granted half-Kingdom. They stayed in Hastinapur for 5 years and 6 months, upto Pingala Shravana Bright 2nd Day. Yudhishthira was yrs. 45-9-27 days old. Indrapratha City was being built during this period.
27. Yudhisthira was coronated on Pingala Ashwayuja Bright 10th Day. He was then 46-0 years old.
28. Arjuna went on pilgrimage for 12 years. He started in Kalayukthi and returned in Pramodhoota. He married Subhadra on Pramodhoota Vaishakh Bright 10th Day. Abhimanya was born in the year Pramodhoota.
29. Draupadi had one son each from her 5 Pandava husbands. 30. The Khandava Forest was burnt down after Pramodhoota Shravana Bright 2nd Day. Yudhishtira was yrs. 58-10-15 days old. Mayasabha took yrs. 1-2-0 days for construction.
31.Panadavas entered Mayasabha on Prajopatthi Ashwayuja Bright 10th Day. Yudhisthira was years 60-0-5 days old.
32. Rule in Indraprastha for 16 years, upto Sarvajit Ashwayuja Bright 10th day. Yudhishthira was yrs. 76-0-5 days old.
33. Wrestling started between Bhima and Jarasandha on Sarvajit Kartika Bright 2nd Day. It continued for 14 days, and Jarasandha was killed on 14th evening.
34. The Rajasooya Yadnya began on Sarvadhari Chaitra Full Moon Day. Yudhisthira was yrs. 76-6-15 days old.
35. Dice plays : The two Dice plays were played between Sarvadhari Shravana Dark 3rd Day and 7th Day. Yudhishthira was yrs. 76-10-2 days old.
So Pandavas ruled for a period of yrs. 36-6-20 days from Virodhikritu Maagha Bright 2nd Day to Sarvadhari Shravana Dark 7th Day.
36. Forest Life : Forest life started on Sarvadhari Shravana Dark 8th Day. Yudhisthira was years 76-10-18 days old. Demon Kimeera was killed on the 3rd Day, that is, Dark 10th Day.
12 years forest exile ended on Sarvari Shravan Dark 7th Day.
37. The 13th year of anonimity ended on the Plava Shravan Dark 7th Day.
38. Kichaka was killed on on Plava Ashadha Dark 8th Day at night. His brothers were killed the next day, Dark 9th Day.
39. Since these are lunar years, there were two Adhik Masas every 5 years, and in 13 years there were 5 Adhik Mases and 12 days. But these were merged in the lunar years as Adhik Mases. Tithiwayas and likewise, Bhishma and Yudhishthira followed this calculation as correct, but Duryodhana insisted on anonimity solar years, which was unacceptable in those days.
40. Since the period was over the previous day, Arjuna declared his identity. Arjuna was carrying his bow Gandiva for 30 years from Pramodoota to Sarvari, and he told Uttara that he will carry it for another 35 years. The next day, on Dark 9th Day, Pandavas declared their identity. Yudhishthira was yrs. 89-10-9 days old.
41. Pandavas stayed in Upaplavyam for yr. 1-2-17 days. During these days, consultations, marraige between Uttara and Abhimanyu in Shubhakrit Jyeshta month, marshalling of armies, Peace talks by Draupadi's Purohit and Sanjaya took place.
In Aswayuja month, there were lunar and solar eclipses, portending evil and destruction.
42. Shri Krishna's Peace talks : Shri Krishna started on Shubhakrit Kartik Bright 2nd Day, in Revati Star, reached Hastinapur on the 13th Day, and held peace talks upto Dark 8th Day. On his last day, His Vishwaroopa was shown. Since talks failed, he started on his return journey the same day in Pushyami Star, told Karna that in 7 days, on New Moon Day in Jyeshta Star, all should assemble at Kurukshetra for the Great War, and returned to Upaplavya.
43. So Pandavas stayed in Upaplavya for yr. 1-2-17 + 15 days = yr. 1-3-2 days.
44. Both the Pandava and Kaurava armies marched to Kurukshetra on the New Moon Day. The period from Margashirsha Bright 2nd Day to 12th Day, was taken up by installation of tents, arranging Army rehearsals etc. etc.
45. The Great Mahabharat War started on Shubhakrit Margashirsha Bright 13/14th Day, Tuesday in Bharani Star. Yudhishthir was yrs. 91-2-9 days old. Just the previous day 11/12th Day, when armies were rehearsing Vyuhas, Arjuna fell into a gloom, occasioning Lord Krishna's famous BhagavadGeeta discourse with Arjuna.
46. Bhishma's Fall : On Margashirsha Dark 7th Day.
47. Abhimanyu's Death : Abhimanyu was killed on Margashirsha Dark 10th Day. He was aged 32 years (From Pramodoota to Shubhakrit). Since marraige was in Jyeshta month, he led only 6 month's family life, and Uttra was 6 months pregnant.
48. Saindhava's Death : Saindhava was killed on Margashirsha Dark 11th Day.
The battle was continued even into the night.
Drona was killed on Margashirsha Dark 12th Day at noon.
49. Karna's Death : Karna was killed on Margashirsha Dark 14th Day.
Salya was killed on Margashirsha New Moon Day at noon.
50. Duryodhana's Fall : He fell on Margashirsha New Moon Day/Pausha Bright 1st Day in the evening. He died the next morning on the Bright 1st Day.
51. Balrama started on pilgrimage on Kartik Dark 5th Day, in Pushyami Star. So, date-wise and star-wise also, pilgrimage took 42 days.
52. Ashwatthama murdered Pandava's sons during the same night on Margashirsha New Moon/Pausha Bright 1st Day night, and conveyed the dire information to the dying Duryodhana on Bright 1st Day early morning. Defeat of Ashwatthama : on Pausha Bright 1st Day.
53. Pandava Armies 7 Akshouhinis = 551,33,83,260
Kaurava Armies 11 Akshouhinis = 866,38,87,960
Total 18 Akshouhinis = 1417,72,71,240
Except Pandavas, Krishna. Satyaki and Yuyutsu on Pandavas side, and Kripa, Krutavarma and Ashwatthama on Kaurava's side, all were killed. Yudhishthira told Dhritarashtra that Great Warriors (MahaRathis) killed in the War, were more than 94 crores.
No clear details are available in the Epic, how Pandava Warriors disposed off kaurava armies. Abhimanyu on the 13th Day, killed more than 0.50 Akshouhini army, and Arjuna on the 14th Day killed 5 Akshouhinis.
54. Attacking Pandavas side,
Bhishma killed nearly 1.27 Akshouhinis = 100,00,00,000
Drona killed nearly 1.00 Akshouhinis = 78,76,26,180
Karna killed nearly 2.37 Akshouhinis = 186,28,78,540
Salya killed nearly 0.29 Akshouhinis = 22,60,46,000
Ashwatthama killed nearly 0.09 Akshouhinis = 7,20,24,400
Rest of the warriors 1.98 Akshouhinis = 156,48,08,140
Warrior-Warrior fights
(Sankula-Samara)
TOTAL 7.00 Akshouhinis = 551,33,83,260
55. Yudhishthira's age was yrs. 91-2-27. Pandavas observed 12 days mourning from Pausha Bright 1st Day to 13th Day. Mass cremations were done on the 14th day, and the same evening, Pandavas proceeded to Hastinapur.
56. Yudhishthira was crowned on Shubhakrit Pausha Full Moon Day. Yudhishthira was yrs. 91-3-10 days old.
57. Pandavas called on Bhishma (who was prostrate on a bed of arrows) on Pausha Dark 2nd Day, stayed upto 8th Day, listened to Bhishma's advisory discourse, returned to Hastinapur, stayed for 15 days and went to Bhishma again on Maagha Bright 8th day. On 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th day, Bhishma was in meditation. He renounced his mortal coil on 12th day. Hence 8th-12th of Pausha Dark Fortnight is called Bhishma Panchakam. Bhishma fell prostrate on Margashirsha Dark 7th Day. From 8th Day to Maagha Bright 11th Day, 48 days elapsed. "AshtaPanchasatam ratryassayana syasyama gatha" that is, Bhishma said that he completed 58 (10+48) days on the battlefield. " Sarashu nisitagresu yatha varsha satam tatha" meaning, by lying on pointed arrows, it appeared although it was 100 years. " Tribhaga seshah pakshyam suklo" meaning, it is Bright Fortnight, and still 3 parts remained. ( By dividing Bright Fortnight into 10 parts, 7 parts = 10.5 days or 11th day is in progress, and still 3 parts = 4.5 days remained upto Full Moon Day.)
58. Ashwamedha Yadnya began on Shobhakrit Maagha Bright 12th Day. Just earlier, Parik$hit was born to Uttara as posthumas premature, still born male baby at 8/9 months, but was revived by Krishna.
15 years later, in Kartik month, Dhritarashtra left for the forest. 3 years later, Pandavas went to the forest to see Dhritarashtra etc. Vidura's death.
After 1 month, Dhritarashtra, Gandhari and Kunti got killed in a forest fire.
59. Thirty six years after the Great War, that is in Bahudhanya year, evil omens in Dwaraka were observed. Samba became pregnant and a iron rod (musalam) was born.
60. Yudhishthir ruled for yrs. 36-2-15 days. From Shubhakrit Pushya Full Moon Day to Bahudhanya Pushya Full Moon Day, it was 36 years and adding 0-2-15 days, it was Pramadi Bright 1st Day, when Kailyug started and Shri Krishna finished his Avatar. (B.C 3102-2-20 at 2-27-30 P.M)
61. Seven days later, on Bright 7th Day, Dwarka city was submerged by the Ocean. Saptarishis were in Magha Star, 75 years prior to Kaliyug and remained there for 25 years after Kaliyug.
Yudhishthir Shaka started from his coronation day that is, Krishna finished his Avatar in Yudhishthir Shaka yrs. 36-2-15.
62. Pandavas started for their Final End after 0-6-11 days, that is, on Pramadi Ashwayuja Bright 12th Day. Yudhishthir was aged yrs. 128-0-6. Parik$hit, 36 years old, was coronated on the same day at Hastinapur.
63. Swargaarohanam is not clearly stated in the Epic. It may be 26 years afterwards. Sage Veda Vyas dictated the Great Epic to Ganapati only after Swargarohanam of the Pandavas, that is, after 26 years of Kaliyug.
64. Parik$hit ruled for 60 years, coronated his 25 year old son Janamejaya, and died.
65. So, Bhagavatha was written by Sage Veda Vyas soon after Mahabharat was over, and before the 60th year of the Kaliyuga.
66. In Dwapara Yuga, human beings lived upto 400 years. There are four stages in life - Balya, Youvana, Koumara and Vriddhapyam. In Dwaparyug, Balya stage was upto 40 years, Youvana stage upto 120 years, and later Koumara and Vriddhapyam stages. But now in the Kaliyuga, Balya stage is upto 15 years, Youvana upto 45 years, Koumara upto 60 years and Vriddhapyam beyond 60 years.
2. Emperor Pandu reached Mount Saptashrunga in Paramodoota Ashwin Bright 5th day. Just one year after Yudhisthira was born.
3. Yudhisthira's Birth : Yudhisthira was born on Pajothpatti Ashwin Bright 5th day, in Jyeshta Star, in Sagittarius Lagna, at midday Abhijit Muhurta. That was just years. 127-5-25 prior to Kaliyug (roughly 3229-8-15 B.C)
4. Bhima's Birth : Bhima was born on Agnirasa Ashwin dark 9th day in Magha Star, after midday. He was younger than Yudhishtira by 1 year and 19 days.
5. Arjun's Birth : Srimukha Phalguna Full Moon Day during the day in Uttara Star. Younger than Bhima by yr. 1-4-21
6. Nakula and Sahadev's Birth : Bhava Phalguna New Moon day, Midday, in Star Ashwini. Younger than Arjuna by yr. 1-0-15
7. Lord Krishna was born on Shrimukha Shravana Dark 8th day, just after midnight in Taurus Lagna.
8. Duryodhana's Birth : Just one day after Bhima's birth. From that day onwards everyday the rest 99 Kauravas and their sister were born. Similarly, Hidimba, Baka and Kichaka were born in the same period between Magha and Swati Stars.
9. Emperor Pandu expired on Sarvadhari Chaitra Bright 12th day in Uttara Star. Arjuna was then yrs. 14-0-7 days old. Yudhistira was then yrs. 16-6-7 years old.
10. Pandavas were brought in Hastina on Sarvadhari Chaitra Dark 13th day, that is, 16 days after their father's death. Death rituals lasted for 12 days from Sarvadhari Chaitra Dark 13th day to Vaishakh Bright 10th day. Yudhisthira was 16 years, 6 months and 28 days of age.
11. Pandavas stayed in Hastinapur for 13 years from Sarvadhari Vaishakha Bright 10th day to Plava Vaishakha Bright 10th day. Yudhisthira was yrs. 29-6-23 days old. They learnt archery under Drona.
12. Archery exhibition : Plava Vaishakha Full Moon Day.
13. King Drupada taken captive : Fight with Drupada from Plava Vaishakha Dark 5th day for a period of of yr. 1-4-5 days, that is upto Shubhakrit Bhadrapada Bright 10th day. Yudhisthira was yrs. 31-0-5 days old.
14. Yudhishthira ws made Crown-Prince on Shubhakrit Ashwayuja Bright 10th day when he was 31-0-5 days old.
15. Pandavas stayed at Hastinapur for yrs. 5-4-20 days, upto Plavanga Maagha New Moon Day. Yudhishthira was yrs. 36-4-25 days old.
16. Entered Varnavrata : Plavanga Phalguna Bright 8th Day. Yudhishtir was yrs. 36-5-3 days old.
17. The Lac Palace was set on fire on Keelaka Phalguna 13/14th Day night in the third Jhamu or Quarter. ( A day consists of 8 prahars, 4 during day time and 4 during night.) Pandavas crossed river Ganga on Keelaka Phalguna New Moon Day morning.
18. Demon Hidimba was slain : on Sowmya Chaitra Bright 1st Day. 19. Ghatotkacha was born on Sowmya Ashwin Bright 2nd Day, and he grew up as an adult immediately.
20. Pandavas stayed in Salihotashramam for 6 months, that is from Sowmya Ashwayuja Bright 2nd Day to Sadharana Chaitra Bright 2nd Day. Yudhishtira was yrs. 38-5-7 days old.
21. Panadavas lived in Ekachakrapuram for 6 months from Sadharana Chaitra Bright 2nd Day to Ashwayuja Bright 2nd Day.
22. Demon Baka was slain : on Sadharana Bright 10th Day. Yudhisthira was yrs. 39-0-5 days old.
23. Pandavas stayed in Ekachakrapuram for 1 month 10 days more, upto Sadharana Margashirsha Dark 5th Day. Then they headed for Panchal Kingdom, and in 3 days reached Dhoumya's Ashram. They stayed there for 15 days, and on the 18th day, reached the capital of Panchal Kingdom, that is, on Sadharana Pausha 7th Day.
24. Princess Draupadi's Swayamvaram took place on Sadhrana Pausha Bright 10th Day.
25. In Panchala Kingdom, Pandavas stayed there for yr. 1-0-15 days, that is, tiil Virodhikrithu Pausha New Moon Day. Yudhishthir was yrs. 40-3-25 days old.
26. Pandavas were recieved in Hastinapur on Virodhikrithu Maagha Bright 2nd Day and were granted half-Kingdom. They stayed in Hastinapur for 5 years and 6 months, upto Pingala Shravana Bright 2nd Day. Yudhishthira was yrs. 45-9-27 days old. Indrapratha City was being built during this period.
27. Yudhisthira was coronated on Pingala Ashwayuja Bright 10th Day. He was then 46-0 years old.
28. Arjuna went on pilgrimage for 12 years. He started in Kalayukthi and returned in Pramodhoota. He married Subhadra on Pramodhoota Vaishakh Bright 10th Day. Abhimanya was born in the year Pramodhoota.
29. Draupadi had one son each from her 5 Pandava husbands. 30. The Khandava Forest was burnt down after Pramodhoota Shravana Bright 2nd Day. Yudhishtira was yrs. 58-10-15 days old. Mayasabha took yrs. 1-2-0 days for construction.
31.Panadavas entered Mayasabha on Prajopatthi Ashwayuja Bright 10th Day. Yudhisthira was years 60-0-5 days old.
32. Rule in Indraprastha for 16 years, upto Sarvajit Ashwayuja Bright 10th day. Yudhishthira was yrs. 76-0-5 days old.
33. Wrestling started between Bhima and Jarasandha on Sarvajit Kartika Bright 2nd Day. It continued for 14 days, and Jarasandha was killed on 14th evening.
34. The Rajasooya Yadnya began on Sarvadhari Chaitra Full Moon Day. Yudhisthira was yrs. 76-6-15 days old.
35. Dice plays : The two Dice plays were played between Sarvadhari Shravana Dark 3rd Day and 7th Day. Yudhishthira was yrs. 76-10-2 days old.
So Pandavas ruled for a period of yrs. 36-6-20 days from Virodhikritu Maagha Bright 2nd Day to Sarvadhari Shravana Dark 7th Day.
36. Forest Life : Forest life started on Sarvadhari Shravana Dark 8th Day. Yudhisthira was years 76-10-18 days old. Demon Kimeera was killed on the 3rd Day, that is, Dark 10th Day.
12 years forest exile ended on Sarvari Shravan Dark 7th Day.
37. The 13th year of anonimity ended on the Plava Shravan Dark 7th Day.
38. Kichaka was killed on on Plava Ashadha Dark 8th Day at night. His brothers were killed the next day, Dark 9th Day.
39. Since these are lunar years, there were two Adhik Masas every 5 years, and in 13 years there were 5 Adhik Mases and 12 days. But these were merged in the lunar years as Adhik Mases. Tithiwayas and likewise, Bhishma and Yudhishthira followed this calculation as correct, but Duryodhana insisted on anonimity solar years, which was unacceptable in those days.
40. Since the period was over the previous day, Arjuna declared his identity. Arjuna was carrying his bow Gandiva for 30 years from Pramodoota to Sarvari, and he told Uttara that he will carry it for another 35 years. The next day, on Dark 9th Day, Pandavas declared their identity. Yudhishthira was yrs. 89-10-9 days old.
41. Pandavas stayed in Upaplavyam for yr. 1-2-17 days. During these days, consultations, marraige between Uttara and Abhimanyu in Shubhakrit Jyeshta month, marshalling of armies, Peace talks by Draupadi's Purohit and Sanjaya took place.
In Aswayuja month, there were lunar and solar eclipses, portending evil and destruction.
42. Shri Krishna's Peace talks : Shri Krishna started on Shubhakrit Kartik Bright 2nd Day, in Revati Star, reached Hastinapur on the 13th Day, and held peace talks upto Dark 8th Day. On his last day, His Vishwaroopa was shown. Since talks failed, he started on his return journey the same day in Pushyami Star, told Karna that in 7 days, on New Moon Day in Jyeshta Star, all should assemble at Kurukshetra for the Great War, and returned to Upaplavya.
43. So Pandavas stayed in Upaplavya for yr. 1-2-17 + 15 days = yr. 1-3-2 days.
44. Both the Pandava and Kaurava armies marched to Kurukshetra on the New Moon Day. The period from Margashirsha Bright 2nd Day to 12th Day, was taken up by installation of tents, arranging Army rehearsals etc. etc.
45. The Great Mahabharat War started on Shubhakrit Margashirsha Bright 13/14th Day, Tuesday in Bharani Star. Yudhishthir was yrs. 91-2-9 days old. Just the previous day 11/12th Day, when armies were rehearsing Vyuhas, Arjuna fell into a gloom, occasioning Lord Krishna's famous BhagavadGeeta discourse with Arjuna.
46. Bhishma's Fall : On Margashirsha Dark 7th Day.
47. Abhimanyu's Death : Abhimanyu was killed on Margashirsha Dark 10th Day. He was aged 32 years (From Pramodoota to Shubhakrit). Since marraige was in Jyeshta month, he led only 6 month's family life, and Uttra was 6 months pregnant.
48. Saindhava's Death : Saindhava was killed on Margashirsha Dark 11th Day.
The battle was continued even into the night.
Drona was killed on Margashirsha Dark 12th Day at noon.
49. Karna's Death : Karna was killed on Margashirsha Dark 14th Day.
Salya was killed on Margashirsha New Moon Day at noon.
50. Duryodhana's Fall : He fell on Margashirsha New Moon Day/Pausha Bright 1st Day in the evening. He died the next morning on the Bright 1st Day.
51. Balrama started on pilgrimage on Kartik Dark 5th Day, in Pushyami Star. So, date-wise and star-wise also, pilgrimage took 42 days.
52. Ashwatthama murdered Pandava's sons during the same night on Margashirsha New Moon/Pausha Bright 1st Day night, and conveyed the dire information to the dying Duryodhana on Bright 1st Day early morning. Defeat of Ashwatthama : on Pausha Bright 1st Day.
53. Pandava Armies 7 Akshouhinis = 551,33,83,260
Kaurava Armies 11 Akshouhinis = 866,38,87,960
Total 18 Akshouhinis = 1417,72,71,240
Except Pandavas, Krishna. Satyaki and Yuyutsu on Pandavas side, and Kripa, Krutavarma and Ashwatthama on Kaurava's side, all were killed. Yudhishthira told Dhritarashtra that Great Warriors (MahaRathis) killed in the War, were more than 94 crores.
No clear details are available in the Epic, how Pandava Warriors disposed off kaurava armies. Abhimanyu on the 13th Day, killed more than 0.50 Akshouhini army, and Arjuna on the 14th Day killed 5 Akshouhinis.
54. Attacking Pandavas side,
Bhishma killed nearly 1.27 Akshouhinis = 100,00,00,000
Drona killed nearly 1.00 Akshouhinis = 78,76,26,180
Karna killed nearly 2.37 Akshouhinis = 186,28,78,540
Salya killed nearly 0.29 Akshouhinis = 22,60,46,000
Ashwatthama killed nearly 0.09 Akshouhinis = 7,20,24,400
Rest of the warriors 1.98 Akshouhinis = 156,48,08,140
Warrior-Warrior fights
(Sankula-Samara)
TOTAL 7.00 Akshouhinis = 551,33,83,260
55. Yudhishthira's age was yrs. 91-2-27. Pandavas observed 12 days mourning from Pausha Bright 1st Day to 13th Day. Mass cremations were done on the 14th day, and the same evening, Pandavas proceeded to Hastinapur.
56. Yudhishthira was crowned on Shubhakrit Pausha Full Moon Day. Yudhishthira was yrs. 91-3-10 days old.
57. Pandavas called on Bhishma (who was prostrate on a bed of arrows) on Pausha Dark 2nd Day, stayed upto 8th Day, listened to Bhishma's advisory discourse, returned to Hastinapur, stayed for 15 days and went to Bhishma again on Maagha Bright 8th day. On 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th day, Bhishma was in meditation. He renounced his mortal coil on 12th day. Hence 8th-12th of Pausha Dark Fortnight is called Bhishma Panchakam. Bhishma fell prostrate on Margashirsha Dark 7th Day. From 8th Day to Maagha Bright 11th Day, 48 days elapsed. "AshtaPanchasatam ratryassayana syasyama gatha" that is, Bhishma said that he completed 58 (10+48) days on the battlefield. " Sarashu nisitagresu yatha varsha satam tatha" meaning, by lying on pointed arrows, it appeared although it was 100 years. " Tribhaga seshah pakshyam suklo" meaning, it is Bright Fortnight, and still 3 parts remained. ( By dividing Bright Fortnight into 10 parts, 7 parts = 10.5 days or 11th day is in progress, and still 3 parts = 4.5 days remained upto Full Moon Day.)
58. Ashwamedha Yadnya began on Shobhakrit Maagha Bright 12th Day. Just earlier, Parik$hit was born to Uttara as posthumas premature, still born male baby at 8/9 months, but was revived by Krishna.
15 years later, in Kartik month, Dhritarashtra left for the forest. 3 years later, Pandavas went to the forest to see Dhritarashtra etc. Vidura's death.
After 1 month, Dhritarashtra, Gandhari and Kunti got killed in a forest fire.
59. Thirty six years after the Great War, that is in Bahudhanya year, evil omens in Dwaraka were observed. Samba became pregnant and a iron rod (musalam) was born.
60. Yudhishthir ruled for yrs. 36-2-15 days. From Shubhakrit Pushya Full Moon Day to Bahudhanya Pushya Full Moon Day, it was 36 years and adding 0-2-15 days, it was Pramadi Bright 1st Day, when Kailyug started and Shri Krishna finished his Avatar. (B.C 3102-2-20 at 2-27-30 P.M)
61. Seven days later, on Bright 7th Day, Dwarka city was submerged by the Ocean. Saptarishis were in Magha Star, 75 years prior to Kaliyug and remained there for 25 years after Kaliyug.
Yudhishthir Shaka started from his coronation day that is, Krishna finished his Avatar in Yudhishthir Shaka yrs. 36-2-15.
62. Pandavas started for their Final End after 0-6-11 days, that is, on Pramadi Ashwayuja Bright 12th Day. Yudhishthir was aged yrs. 128-0-6. Parik$hit, 36 years old, was coronated on the same day at Hastinapur.
63. Swargaarohanam is not clearly stated in the Epic. It may be 26 years afterwards. Sage Veda Vyas dictated the Great Epic to Ganapati only after Swargarohanam of the Pandavas, that is, after 26 years of Kaliyug.
64. Parik$hit ruled for 60 years, coronated his 25 year old son Janamejaya, and died.
65. So, Bhagavatha was written by Sage Veda Vyas soon after Mahabharat was over, and before the 60th year of the Kaliyuga.
66. In Dwapara Yuga, human beings lived upto 400 years. There are four stages in life - Balya, Youvana, Koumara and Vriddhapyam. In Dwaparyug, Balya stage was upto 40 years, Youvana stage upto 120 years, and later Koumara and Vriddhapyam stages. But now in the Kaliyuga, Balya stage is upto 15 years, Youvana upto 45 years, Koumara upto 60 years and Vriddhapyam beyond 60 years.
Wow... Mahabharata! Gotta be one of the best epic in the world, and truly one of the best thing India had ever exported 
As you all might have known well, it's also famous all over South East Asia, including my country Indonesia. It's a sacred text that was carefully re-written and re-told by our ancestors, taught as guidance in life, and had become a part of our life that even though now most of us are Muslims, we still love Mahabharata (and Ramayana). You can easily find an Indonesian named after one of the Pandava, yet he might not be a Hindu. He might be a Muslim or Chrsitian, but it's perfectly okay in our culture, we want the good traits of the Pandavas in our children. That's how much we love Mahabharata, transcending times and religions 
But I gotta break this up to you guys... the longest epic poem is not Mahabharat, it is Indonesia's I la Galigo ( Sare Galigo ), which is the longest known written epic poem – even longer than the Indian Mahabharata or Odysee and Iliad together.
As you all might have known well, it's also famous all over South East Asia, including my country Indonesia. It's a sacred text that was carefully re-written and re-told by our ancestors, taught as guidance in life, and had become a part of our life that even though now most of us are Muslims, we still love Mahabharata (and Ramayana). You can easily find an Indonesian named after one of the Pandava, yet he might not be a Hindu. He might be a Muslim or Chrsitian, but it's perfectly okay in our culture, we want the good traits of the Pandavas in our children. That's how much we love Mahabharata, transcending times and religions But I gotta break this up to you guys... the longest epic poem is not Mahabharat, it is Indonesia's I la Galigo ( Sare Galigo ), which is the longest known written epic poem – even longer than the Indian Mahabharata or Odysee and Iliad together.
QUOTE(Bhaskara @ Oct 3 2007, 07:44 AM) 
Wow... Mahabharata! Gotta be one of the best epic in the world, and truly one of the best thing India had ever exported As you all might have known well, it's also famous all over South East Asia, including my country Indonesia. It's a sacred text that was carefully re-written and re-told by our ancestors, taught as guidance in life, and had become a part of our life that even though now most of us are Muslims, we still love Mahabharata (and Ramayana). You can easily find an Indonesian named after one of the Pandava, yet he might not be a Hindu. He might be a Muslim or Chrsitian, but it's perfectly okay in our culture, we want the good traits of the Pandavas in our children. That's how much we love Mahabharata, transcending times and religions
But I gotta break this up to you guys... the longest epic poem is not Mahabharat, it is Indonesia's I la Galigo ( Sare Galigo ), which is the longest known written epic poem – even longer than the Indian Mahabharata or Odysee and Iliad together.
As you all might have known well, it's also famous all over South East Asia, including my country Indonesia. It's a sacred text that was carefully re-written and re-told by our ancestors, taught as guidance in life, and had become a part of our life that even though now most of us are Muslims, we still love Mahabharata (and Ramayana). You can easily find an Indonesian named after one of the Pandava, yet he might not be a Hindu. He might be a Muslim or Chrsitian, but it's perfectly okay in our culture, we want the good traits of the Pandavas in our children. That's how much we love Mahabharata, transcending times and religions But I gotta break this up to you guys... the longest epic poem is not Mahabharat, it is Indonesia's I la Galigo ( Sare Galigo ), which is the longest known written epic poem – even longer than the Indian Mahabharata or Odysee and Iliad together.
Good point, I forgot to mention the Mahabharat's relevance in SE Asia.
I la Galigo? Never really knew that it was longer (how does anyone even get through it all?
), but anyway, I just got the idea Mahabharat was the longest from documentaries. So briefly, what's I la Galigo about?
Some of the key characters in the Mahabharat are in this link, with a brief description of them.
Pics of them...
Abhimanyu
Arjun
Bhagiratha
Bhima (top)
Bhishma
Brihaspati
%202.jpg)
More to follow later (when I have time)...
Pics of them...
Abhimanyu
Arjun
Bhagiratha
Bhima (top)
Bhishma
Brihaspati
More to follow later (when I have time)...
I am a bit biased here. I consider Mahabharata to be the best epic in the world. The best thing about it is that it inspires. A perosn will still find the relevance of happennings and teachings in the epic in today's times and can relate to it. It is a masterpiece no other epic can match. It is simply perfect.
@Bhaskara you are a knowledgable perosn, I get to learn something from your post. Most Indians are not well aware of the deep rooted cultural similarities of India and Indoneasia.
Dude your Arjun looks like a Ramayana character in this picture. Where are his moustache? I will post some Raja Ravi Varma paintings on Mahabharata they look very authentic.
@Bhaskara you are a knowledgable perosn, I get to learn something from your post. Most Indians are not well aware of the deep rooted cultural similarities of India and Indoneasia.
QUOTE(ACMILAN1983 @ Oct 5 2007, 08:43 PM)
Arjun
Dude your Arjun looks like a Ramayana character in this picture. Where are his moustache? I will post some Raja Ravi Varma paintings on Mahabharata they look very authentic.
QUOTE(VAMAN @ Oct 5 2007, 08:13 PM)
Dude your Arjun looks like a Ramayana character in this picture. Where are his moustache? I will post some Raja Ravi Varma paintings on Mahabharata they look very authentic.
haha, sorry it was surprisingly difficult to find good pictures of him in Mahabharat quickly. Here's a painting from Raja Ravi Varma of Arjun and Subhadra (his wife)
and another of him and Krishna
it's spectacular to read, dat and the Bhagavad Gita too
@ACMILAN1983: I La Galigo contains about 300.000 verses, it's an ancient epic adventure which gives us an idea of Austronesian customs and religion before the dawn of Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam in Indonesia. 
@VAMAN: Thx, VAMAN. We treasure the teachings from your Mahabharata and Ramayana.
About Arjuna, he became the image of an ideal Javanese man: handsome, slender, soft-spoken, polite, and very refined. Sometimes we even use female actress to fill in the role of Arjuna just to achieve that image
Arjuna in as depicted in our Wayang Kulit:
@VAMAN: Thx, VAMAN. We treasure the teachings from your Mahabharata and Ramayana.
About Arjuna, he became the image of an ideal Javanese man: handsome, slender, soft-spoken, polite, and very refined. Sometimes we even use female actress to fill in the role of Arjuna just to achieve that image
Arjuna in as depicted in our Wayang Kulit:
Thanks for the info Bhaskara, very interesting. So I guess Arjun is similar to Javanese as Ram is to Indians?
continuing with the pics...
Dhritarastra
Drona
Draupadi
Dushashana (left)
Duryodhana
Eklavya (right)
Gandhari
Ganga (top)
Ghatotkacha
More later...
continuing with the pics...
Dhritarastra
Drona
Draupadi
Dushashana (left)
Duryodhana
Eklavya (right)
Gandhari
Ganga (top)
Ghatotkacha
More later...
lol dude imma ask your help with my paper on hinduism, ok?
QUOTE(felltohell @ Oct 6 2007, 10:39 AM)
lol dude imma ask your help with my paper on hinduism, ok?
lol ok. Damn, you guys get to do papers on Hinduism? I never got to do that at school? (well a little at primary school but that's because the majority of the students at school were south Asian)
yah we do.. a lot in literature.. taoism, cunfucianism, buddhism... and now hinduism...
in our class, Christianity is the lamest..lol
i think it might be different if i actually get an insight from a hindu?
in our class, Christianity is the lamest..lol
i think it might be different if i actually get an insight from a hindu?
QUOTE(felltohell @ Oct 6 2007, 10:48 AM)
yah we do.. a lot in literature.. taoism, cunfucianism, buddhism... and now hinduism...
in our class, Christianity is the lamest..lol
i think it might be different if i actually get an insight from a hindu?
in our class, Christianity is the lamest..lol
i think it might be different if i actually get an insight from a hindu?
Probably, Hinduism is extremely complex and many who study it from an outside perspective often get lost as to the point of it all. I think there are quite a few Hindus here who can provide good help, and learning about the Mahabharat will give further insight into Hinduism
There's also the Hinduism for dummies thread that has some good info.
oh ok.. i might visit it soon...
imma work first on my book analysis.,..
imma work first on my book analysis.,..
QUOTE(ACMILAN1983 @ Oct 6 2007, 02:17 AM)
haha, sorry it was surprisingly difficult to find good pictures of him in Mahabharat quickly. Here's a painting from Raja Ravi Varma of Arjun and Subhadra (his wife)
Nice I like this painting. The caption under it reads. Arjuna - Prince and a kshtriya warrior, courting Subhadra, dressed as Sage during his exile in forest.
Ravi Varma was comissioned by the King of Baroda to draw paintings on the theme of Mahabharata. I have read somewhere that he went to the places mentioned in the epics personally to get a first hand feeling.
Mahabharata and Ramayana (yes we add 'a' in the end ) is already considered as part of our culture.
Indonesian fascination of Indian culture is started waay back since millenias ago.
In fact my real name is taken from one of Ramayana character, it's traditional Hindu origin Javanese name actually.
Speaking of Mahabharata, here's the old comic book (around 70's) of Mahabharata by RA Kosasih.
Can you guess who's the big guy with Gadha weapon on the cover... (clue: he's one of the Pandawas... )
) is already considered as part of our culture.Indonesian fascination of Indian culture is started waay back since millenias ago.
In fact my real name is taken from one of Ramayana character, it's traditional Hindu origin Javanese name actually.
Speaking of Mahabharata, here's the old comic book (around 70's) of Mahabharata by RA Kosasih.
Can you guess who's the big guy with Gadha weapon on the cover... (clue: he's one of the Pandawas...
)
Thanks Majapahitans, I must admit I'm curious as to what your name is.
The comic looks pretty interesting too, is the answer Bhima btw?
The comic looks pretty interesting too, is the answer Bhima btw?
Taking a look at Ravi Varma's Arjuna I just realized that the image of Arjuna is kinda different with what we Indonesians see him as. We would never depict him like the one in the pic. We always depict him as a vary handsome man, with smooth face and skin, and so very delicate, almost feminine.
QUOTE(Majapahitans @ Oct 6 2007, 10:51 PM)
Mahabharata and Ramayana (yes we add 'a' in the end ) is already considered as part of our culture.
) is already considered as part of our culture.Yes 'a' is added in the end in old Sanskrit words, but it is only when writing in Roman alphabets, but they are always pronounced as the last 'a' silent. We already have a thread on this confusion.
Good I like that Indonesians acknowledge their culture irrespective of religion.
QUOTE(Majapahitans @ Oct 6 2007, 10:51 PM)
In fact my real name is taken from one of Ramayana character, it's traditional Hindu origin Javanese name actually.
And your name is .........
QUOTE(Majapahitans @ Oct 6 2007, 10:51 PM)
Speaking of Mahabharata, here's the old comic book (around 70's) of Mahabharata by RA Kosasih.
http://gwmusic.files.wordpress.com/2007/06/mahabarata.jpg
Can you guess who's the big guy with Gadha weapon on the cover... (clue: he's one of the Pandawas... )
http://gwmusic.files.wordpress.com/2007/06/mahabarata.jpg
Can you guess who's the big guy with Gadha weapon on the cover... (clue: he's one of the Pandawas...
)I used to think that these types of comic books are printed only in India. And that big guy would be Mahabali Bhima.
QUOTE(Bhaskara @ Oct 9 2007, 02:20 PM)
Taking a look at Ravi Varma's Arjuna I just realized that the image of Arjuna is kinda different with what we Indonesians see him as. We would never depict him like the one in the pic. We always depict him as a vary handsome man, with smooth face and skin, and so very delicate, almost feminine.
I have already described that painting in my previous post.
"Arjuna - Prince and a kshtriya warrior, courting Subhadra, dressed as Sage during his exile in forest"
Arjuna was in self imposed exile in forest. Raja Ravi Varma depicted that theme in his painting. I find his paintings very realistic, though a bit of south Indian touch is evident in all of his paintings, this is understandable since Ravi Varma was from Kerala in south India.
QUOTE(ACMILAN1983 @ Oct 7 2007, 04:03 AM)
Thanks Majapahitans, I must admit I'm curious as to what your name is.
QUOTE(VAMAN @ Oct 9 2007, 05:39 AM)
And your name is .........
I've met a nice Indian couple in Jakarta Museum,
when I introduce myself he said my name in sanskirt means "He who had lots of good quality".
QUOTE(ACMILAN1983 @ Oct 7 2007, 04:03 AM)
The comic looks pretty interesting too, is the answer Bhima btw?
QUOTE(VAMAN @ Oct 9 2007, 05:39 AM)
I used to think that these types of comic books are printed only in India. And that big guy would be Mahabali Bhima.
Yeah... you both are right. He is Bhima.
QUOTE(ACMILAN1983 @ Oct 1 2007, 10:48 PM)
The Mahabharat is highly influencial on my life, and importantly, I find it always teaches me something new and always brings me joy. So what are the opinions of others here about this poem? I also would very much like to hear the thoughts of those who may not know much about the Mahabharat.
Lovely thread!
I have a few questions which I hope u can help me:
1. How did the Mahabharat spread to Southeast Asia?
2. Were the wars in Mahabharat akin to the fight between forest dwellers versus agricultural plains? Pastoralists versus agriculturalists?
3. Here's an extract from the Wiki:
QUOTE
The Mahabharata includes aspects of Hinduism, stories of the gods and goddesses, and explanations of Hindu philosophy. Among the principal works and stories that are a part of the Mahabharata are the following (often considered isolated as works in their own right):
* Bhagavad Gita (Krishna advises and teaches Arjuna when he is ridden with doubt. Anusasanaparva.)
* Damayanti (or Nala and Damayanti, a love story. Aranyakaparva.)
* Krishnavatara (the story of Krishna, the Krishna Lila, which is woven through many chapters of the story)
* An abbreviated version of the Ramayana. Aranyakaparva.
* Rishyasringa (also written as Rshyashrnga, the horned boy and rishi. Aranyakaparva.)
* Vishnu sahasranama (a hymn to Vishnu, which describes his 1000 names; Anushasanaparva.)
The Mahabharata expresses an epic tendency towards all-inclusiveness at the beginning of its first parva (section): "What is found here, may be found elsewhere. What is not found here, will not be found elsewhere."
* Bhagavad Gita (Krishna advises and teaches Arjuna when he is ridden with doubt. Anusasanaparva.)
* Damayanti (or Nala and Damayanti, a love story. Aranyakaparva.)
* Krishnavatara (the story of Krishna, the Krishna Lila, which is woven through many chapters of the story)
* An abbreviated version of the Ramayana. Aranyakaparva.
* Rishyasringa (also written as Rshyashrnga, the horned boy and rishi. Aranyakaparva.)
* Vishnu sahasranama (a hymn to Vishnu, which describes his 1000 names; Anushasanaparva.)
The Mahabharata expresses an epic tendency towards all-inclusiveness at the beginning of its first parva (section): "What is found here, may be found elsewhere. What is not found here, will not be found elsewhere."
If i were to read the Mahabharata, would i have to read it along with the above works as well? Or is the Krishna Lila and BG usually separate pieces of works to be read?
Thanks !
edit:doublepost
QUOTE(tangawizi @ Oct 9 2007, 04:08 PM)
Lovely thread!
I have a few questions which I hope u can help me:
1. How did the Mahabharat spread to Southeast Asia?
2. Were the wars in Mahabharat akin to the fight between forest dwellers versus agricultural plains? Pastoralists versus agriculturalists?
3. Here's an extract from the Wiki:
If i were to read the Mahabharata, would i have to read it along with the above works as well? Or is the Krishna Lila and BG usually separate pieces of works to be read?
Thanks !
I have a few questions which I hope u can help me:
1. How did the Mahabharat spread to Southeast Asia?
2. Were the wars in Mahabharat akin to the fight between forest dwellers versus agricultural plains? Pastoralists versus agriculturalists?
3. Here's an extract from the Wiki:
If i were to read the Mahabharata, would i have to read it along with the above works as well? Or is the Krishna Lila and BG usually separate pieces of works to be read?
Thanks !
Right, I'll have to be brief but will answer as I can...
1. It probably spread along the times Indian culture and Hinduism spread out to SE Asia in general (India historically has a large sphere of influence in SE Asia). Perhaps one of our SE Asian friends here might be able to explain further
2. Personally, I haven't really seen much connection no, though I must admit I might well be misinterpreting your question.
3. The work mentioned there are part of the Mahabharat and also seperate works in their own right. That means if you read or watch the complete work of Mahabharat, these are encompassed within. It's worth noting the Mahabharat is something that's considered to have developed over a very long period of time, so much has been added after the original version was written. This is partly the kind of reason people consider it the story of India.
QUOTE(Majapahitans @ Oct 9 2007, 06:12 PM)
I've met a nice Indian couple in Jakarta Museum,
when I introduce myself he said my name in sanskirt means "He who had lots of good quality".
when I introduce myself he said my name in sanskirt means "He who had lots of good quality".
Still very hard to guess the name. Only word I can think about is Guna.
QUOTE(tangawizi @ Oct 9 2007, 08:38 PM)
Lovely thread!
I have a few questions which I hope u can help me:
1. How did the Mahabharat spread to Southeast Asia?
2. Were the wars in Mahabharat akin to the fight between forest dwellers versus agricultural plains? Pastoralists versus agriculturalists?
3. Here's an extract from the Wiki:
I have a few questions which I hope u can help me:
1. How did the Mahabharat spread to Southeast Asia?
2. Were the wars in Mahabharat akin to the fight between forest dwellers versus agricultural plains? Pastoralists versus agriculturalists?
3. Here's an extract from the Wiki:
1. It is because of people to people contacts like trading, invasions etc. Someone knowledgble about Southeast Asia can answer more properly.
2. Now this is a very strange question. The answer is no.
3. The Wiki article is nicely done. A layman can grasp it easily.
QUOTE(tangawizi @ Oct 9 2007, 08:38 PM)
If i were to read the Mahabharata, would i have to read it along with the above works as well? Or is the Krishna Lila and BG usually separate pieces of works to be read?
Thanks !
Thanks !
The story of Mahabharata spans many generations, and include stories of many different individuals. Then there are side stories related to Mahabharata but not included in it. The most famous part of it is Shrimad Bhagvad Gita, which is the compilation of divine words Lord Krishna told Arjuna about life and virtuous path. But you need not worry about all this. Read Mahabharata and you will get a new story in every part of it.
QUOTE(VAMAN @ Oct 10 2007, 08:03 PM)
-
umm, did you just bump the thread or is there a reason you put "-"?
I wish all of india spoke Sanskrit.
Hell, I wish Sanskrit replaced Spanish in the US
big ambition, I know
haha
Hell, I wish Sanskrit replaced Spanish in the US
big ambition, I know
haha
More pics...
Jayadratha
Karna
Krishna (middle)
Kunti (right)
edit: ignore
ps - Thanks Henry in your post below
Jayadratha
Karna
Krishna (middle)
Kunti (right)
edit: ignore
ps - Thanks Henry in your post below
QUOTE(ACMILAN1983 @ Oct 12 2007, 03:07 PM)
More pics...
Jayadratha
Karna
Krishna (middle)
Kunti (right)
Jayadratha
Karna
Krishna (middle)
Kunti (right)
Acmilan is #1 !
nice pics acmilan, here's one I like. artwork by James Neff
"Gurkha flying in his swift and powerful Vimana hurled against the three cities of the Vrishis & Andhakas a single projectile charged with all the power of the universe. An incandescent column of smoke & fire as brilliant as ten thousand suns rose in all it's splendor" - Mahabharat
"Gurkha flying in his swift and powerful Vimana hurled against the three cities of the Vrishis & Andhakas a single projectile charged with all the power of the universe. An incandescent column of smoke & fire as brilliant as ten thousand suns rose in all it's splendor" - Mahabharat
Thanks Akshar, I've seen those sites before, glad you mentioned them.
Nachiketa, nice pic, very unique interpretation.
Nachiketa, nice pic, very unique interpretation.
Last set of pics...
Sandipani (right)
Shakuni
Shakuntala
Shantanu (left)
Ved Vyas (Author of Mahabharat)
Hope you all enjoyed the pics As Vaman said earlier, Ravi Varma's artwork (distinct in it's more realistic depiction of the characters) is superb, exceptionally beautiful, but for me I loved the picture I put of Krishna (argubly the key character of the Mahabharat), I wanted to find something a bit different compared to the typical artwork you often get of Krishna, and found this stunning artwork, rich in it's use of colour and detail, the lighting in the piece adds a lot of depth and it's mixture of realism and fantasy really seemed amazing to me.
Sandipani (right)
Shakuni
Shakuntala
Shantanu (left)
Ved Vyas (Author of Mahabharat)
Hope you all enjoyed the pics
As Vaman said earlier, Ravi Varma's artwork (distinct in it's more realistic depiction of the characters) is superb, exceptionally beautiful, but for me I loved the picture I put of Krishna (argubly the key character of the Mahabharat), I wanted to find something a bit different compared to the typical artwork you often get of Krishna, and found this stunning artwork, rich in it's use of colour and detail, the lighting in the piece adds a lot of depth and it's mixture of realism and fantasy really seemed amazing to me.
thanks for the unique artwork it was extremely beautiful.
QUOTE(akshar @ Oct 13 2007, 08:44 AM)
Krishna confronts Bhisma in Kurukshetra War. Beautiful painting.
QUOTE
In the great battle at Kurukshetra, Bhishma, bound by his oath to serve the ruler of Hastinapura, fought very reluctantly on the side of the Kauravas; nevertheless, he gave it his best effort. At one stage, his impeccable military prowess, combined with Arjuna's disinclination to fight him, almost made Lord Krishna break His vow of not actually fighting in the war. Krishna charged at Bhishma to kill him with a chariot wheel and was welcomed with folded hands by the grandsire. Then Arjuna pleaded with Krishna to stop and reminded him of the vow.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhishma
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhishma
Arjuna taking aim of the eye of the rotating fish by looking at its reflection in water.
Arjuna and Krishna in the battle of Kurukshetra
In the TV serial Mahabharat actor Mayur as Abhimanyu. (This one is unique)
I haven't read the Mahabharata, but I've seen over half the TV series a couple of years ago. In my opinion, it was one of the best stories I've seen.
Arjuna was being deferential to Pitamaha Bhishma on the battlefield. That is why Sri Krishna broke his vow and lifted his Sudarshana Chakra to slay the elder Bhishma. Bhishma was delighted that he would be killed by Narayana Himself, while Arjuna was horrified that his dearest friend would break his vow. Arjuna pacified Sri Krishna and proceeded to slay Bhishma with tears in his eyes.
The narrative is pure Bliss.
The narrative is pure Bliss.
QUOTE(Yuyutsu @ Oct 16 2007, 05:41 AM)
Arjuna was being deferential to Pitamaha Bhishma on the battlefield. That is why Sri Krishna broke his vow and lifted his Sudarshana Chakra to slay the elder Bhishma. Bhishma was delighted that he would be killed by Narayana Himself, while Arjuna was horrified that his dearest friend would break his vow. Arjuna pacified Sri Krishna and proceeded to slay Bhishma with tears in his eyes.
The narrative is pure Bliss.
The narrative is pure Bliss.
Very nice, and welcome to the forum
I've research Indian Mahabharat and Javanese Mahabharata version on Wayang (shadow puppet) play.
And discover several Javanese modification in this epic.
1. In Javanese version, Draupadi (Dropadi) just the wive only for Yudhistira, as the queen. Originally Draupadi is the wive of all pandavas, she practice poliandry, which means a woman is united and lives in marriage to several husbands. Probably in ancient Hindu Java the Mahabharat is identical with original Indian version, but after the fall of Majapahit, later Islamic sultanates of Demak and Mataram of Java didn't abolished Javanese Hindu element, but modify it into Islamic value which didn't recognize and even abhore poliandry.
Drupadi Wayang Golek puppet
2. Shikhandi (Srikandi) in Javanese version never turn to be a man. She stay as a woman, with skill in warfare equal to man, and she even married to Arjuna. Srikandi is symbol of woman emancipation and gender equality for modern Indonesia. Also she's the one who killed Bhisma, not Arjuna who only assist her.... Interesting twist isn't it..?
Srikandi in Wayang shadow puppet
Javanese dancer as Srikandi
In original Mahabharat, Shikandi had been born in an earlier lifetime as a woman named Amba, who was rejected by Bhishma for marriage. Feeling deeply humiliated and wanting revenge, Amba carried out great prayers and penance with the desire to be the cause of Bhishma's death. Amba was then reborn as Shikhandini. From her birth, a Divine voice told her father to raise her as a son. So Shikhandini was raised like a man, trained in warfare and eventually married. On her wedding night, her wife insulted her on finding out the truth. Contemplating suicide, she fled Pancala, but was saved by a Yaksha who exchanged his sex with her. Shikhandi came back a man and had a happy married life with his wife and had children too. After his death, his masculinity was transferred back to the Yaksha.
Javanese version do recognize Shikhandi as reincarnation of Amba, but Shikandini sex change to men (Shikandi) never took place in Javanese version, she stay as Srikandi, a warrior princess and wive of Arjuna (I tend to see her as Javanese version of Xena, the warrior princess... ).
3. Javanese version recognize the vital role of Punakawan especially Semar (royal jester/clown/servant/babysitter that even still serve their master although they have grew older). Punakawan serve as the guardian and babysitter of Pandavas since the birth. The prominent figure of Punakawan is Semar with his sons; Gareng, Petruk, Bagong. They are funny and entertaining, represent the commoners naive, but wise view of life, in contrast of strict noble blood royalties ksatryas code of honor of Hastina like Pandavas. Punakawan especially Semar didn't exist in Indian Mahabharat.
Semar accompanied by his sons, Bagong, Gareng, Petruk.
Semar in Sundanese west Java wayang golek version
Contemporary anthropological studies suggest that Semar originally was a pre-historic nature god from pre-Hindu Java. Described as a dwarf, fat kinda ugly white haired old man, but has smiling face, kind, benevolent and have true wisdom. His original form as Ismaya is noble, radiant and handsome god, son of Sang Hyang Tunggal, grandson of Sang Hyang Wenang ("Tunggal" means Single, "Wenang" means Win/Glory/Champion/Rule. Suggested represent the Single God, the "monotheistic" essence of primordial God, before the age of pantheon Hindu gods). Instead of abolishing prehistoric nature cult, early Javanese Hindu incorporated Semar into their mythology, a lovingly adored character by Javanese. His common and modest appereance disguised his true ultimate power than noted even can surpass Batara Guru or King of gods himself (Shiva).
And discover several Javanese modification in this epic.
1. In Javanese version, Draupadi (Dropadi) just the wive only for Yudhistira, as the queen. Originally Draupadi is the wive of all pandavas, she practice poliandry, which means a woman is united and lives in marriage to several husbands. Probably in ancient Hindu Java the Mahabharat is identical with original Indian version, but after the fall of Majapahit, later Islamic sultanates of Demak and Mataram of Java didn't abolished Javanese Hindu element, but modify it into Islamic value which didn't recognize and even abhore poliandry.
Drupadi Wayang Golek puppet
2. Shikhandi (Srikandi) in Javanese version never turn to be a man. She stay as a woman, with skill in warfare equal to man, and she even married to Arjuna. Srikandi is symbol of woman emancipation and gender equality for modern Indonesia. Also she's the one who killed Bhisma, not Arjuna who only assist her.... Interesting twist isn't it..?
Srikandi in Wayang shadow puppet
Javanese dancer as Srikandi
In original Mahabharat, Shikandi had been born in an earlier lifetime as a woman named Amba, who was rejected by Bhishma for marriage. Feeling deeply humiliated and wanting revenge, Amba carried out great prayers and penance with the desire to be the cause of Bhishma's death. Amba was then reborn as Shikhandini. From her birth, a Divine voice told her father to raise her as a son. So Shikhandini was raised like a man, trained in warfare and eventually married. On her wedding night, her wife insulted her on finding out the truth. Contemplating suicide, she fled Pancala, but was saved by a Yaksha who exchanged his sex with her. Shikhandi came back a man and had a happy married life with his wife and had children too. After his death, his masculinity was transferred back to the Yaksha.
Javanese version do recognize Shikhandi as reincarnation of Amba, but Shikandini sex change to men (Shikandi) never took place in Javanese version, she stay as Srikandi, a warrior princess and wive of Arjuna (I tend to see her as Javanese version of Xena, the warrior princess...
).3. Javanese version recognize the vital role of Punakawan especially Semar (royal jester/clown/servant/babysitter that even still serve their master although they have grew older). Punakawan serve as the guardian and babysitter of Pandavas since the birth. The prominent figure of Punakawan is Semar with his sons; Gareng, Petruk, Bagong. They are funny and entertaining, represent the commoners naive, but wise view of life, in contrast of strict noble blood royalties ksatryas code of honor of Hastina like Pandavas. Punakawan especially Semar didn't exist in Indian Mahabharat.
Semar accompanied by his sons, Bagong, Gareng, Petruk.
Semar in Sundanese west Java wayang golek version
Contemporary anthropological studies suggest that Semar originally was a pre-historic nature god from pre-Hindu Java. Described as a dwarf, fat kinda ugly white haired old man, but has smiling face, kind, benevolent and have true wisdom. His original form as Ismaya is noble, radiant and handsome god, son of Sang Hyang Tunggal, grandson of Sang Hyang Wenang ("Tunggal" means Single, "Wenang" means Win/Glory/Champion/Rule. Suggested represent the Single God, the "monotheistic" essence of primordial God, before the age of pantheon Hindu gods). Instead of abolishing prehistoric nature cult, early Javanese Hindu incorporated Semar into their mythology, a lovingly adored character by Javanese. His common and modest appereance disguised his true ultimate power than noted even can surpass Batara Guru or King of gods himself (Shiva).
Oh yeah speaking of Mahabharata significance in modern Indonesia, here's the statue of Arjuna Wijaya, a monument in Central Jakarta.
It's the bronze statue human 1:1 scale of Arjuna and Khrisna riding the chariot by Nyoman Nuarta.
Sory I can't find larger image...
It's the bronze statue human 1:1 scale of Arjuna and Khrisna riding the chariot by Nyoman Nuarta.
Sory I can't find larger image...
QUOTE(ACMILAN1983 @ Oct 16 2007, 09:58 AM)
Very nice, and welcome to the forum
Thanks. It's great to be here.
Some info about the infamous tv series:
It was aired back in the late 80's on Indian television, with 94 episodes and became one of the most popular shows in Indian television history. The series itself was created by B.R. Chopra and is now available on DVD.
It was also shown in the UK by the BBC, with audience figures of 5 million, which was completely unexpected of a foreign series.
It was aired back in the late 80's on Indian television, with 94 episodes and became one of the most popular shows in Indian television history. The series itself was created by B.R. Chopra and is now available on DVD.
It was also shown in the UK by the BBC, with audience figures of 5 million, which was completely unexpected of a foreign series.
I've heard alot about this story I hear it is one of the earliest forms of poetry in the then ancient world many cultures have mentioned this story after its introduction in those areas particularly the middle east and South East Asia.
Another great epic is the Ramayana which is slightly younger compared to the Mahabharata
The Jatarka short stories mainly to convey a moral meaning have been recorded and retold in the middle east, Sri Lanka and South East Asia with slightly different twists to them. I think the Jataka stories were written before and after the Buddhas death by many different Indian poets to convey the diversity of our timely existence and how to acquire proper moral conduct. There are many hard topics dealt with in the Jatarka short stories like how to deal with death, sharing of wealth etc.
Also maybe ACMILAN you probably know this were they to make a huge trilogy on the Mahabharata with Shah Rukh Khan as the main character I dunno I think I read it here or somewhere else?
Another great epic is the Ramayana which is slightly younger compared to the Mahabharata
The Jatarka short stories mainly to convey a moral meaning have been recorded and retold in the middle east, Sri Lanka and South East Asia with slightly different twists to them. I think the Jataka stories were written before and after the Buddhas death by many different Indian poets to convey the diversity of our timely existence and how to acquire proper moral conduct. There are many hard topics dealt with in the Jatarka short stories like how to deal with death, sharing of wealth etc.
Also maybe ACMILAN you probably know this were they to make a huge trilogy on the Mahabharata with Shah Rukh Khan as the main character I dunno I think I read it here or somewhere else?
Thanks, I heard about the movies but didn't know SRK was involved. I heard about them around the time there was a huge fuss about Salman Khan playing Ram in a new Ramayan movie
QUOTE(ACMILAN1983 @ Oct 30 2007, 08:06 PM)
Thanks, I heard about the movies but didn't know SRK was involved. I heard about them around the time there was a huge fuss about Salman Khan playing Ram in a new Ramayan movie
But why was there a fuss over Salman Khan playing a lead role in the Ramayana, and not Shahrukh Khan or Aamir Khan who are also Muslims playing lead roles in the Mahabharata?
QUOTE(Jagger @ Nov 1 2007, 12:22 AM)
But why was there a fuss over Salman Khan playing a lead role in the Ramayana, and not Shahrukh Khan or Aamir Khan who are also Muslims playing lead roles in the Mahabharata?
I have heard that Salman Khan is going to play Tarzan in a movie. But no idea about his association with Ramayana.
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