The Mahabharata is one of the two major Sanskrit epics of ancient India. It is the longest epic poem known and has been described as "the longest poem ever written".

Synopsis

It narrates the struggle between two groups of cousins in the Kurukshetra War and the fates of the Kaurava and the Pandava princes and their successors. It contains the Bhagavad Gita.

Key Sections

• Adi Parva: Origins.
• Bhishma Parva: Contains the Gita.
• Shanti Parva: Discourse on governance and dharma.

Timeline

• c. 8th-9th Century BCE: Core events (Kurukshetra War) likely took place.
• c. 400 BCE - 400 CE: Compilation and expansion of the text attributed to Vyasa.