The Message of Mahabharata (The Nation's Magnum Opus)

Book Details

• Publisher: Bharatiya Vidya Bhawan
• Author: Justice P. Kodandaramayya
• Language: English
• Edition: 2014
• ISBN: 8172763255
• Pages: 586
• Cover: Paperback
• Other Details: 9.5” x 6.2”

About the Book

This insightful book delves into the profound wisdom of the two great Indian epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, exploring their philosophical, cultural, and spiritual dimensions.

The book is divided into three parts, each tackling key themes:

1. Creation and History:

   • Discusses the concept of Brahmanda (the universe), its 14 worlds, and the vertical axis called Meru that connects them.
   • Explores the concept of time—how it differs between earth and celestial beings, where a year on earth is equivalent to a day for divine entities.
   • Summarizes the Mahabharata, highlighting unique details such as Karna’s height (14 feet) and the celestial chariots transporting fallen warriors to the heavens.

2. Wisdom and Dharma:

   • Analyzes the differences in regional versions of the Mahabharata, such as the absence of the incident where Draupadi laughs at Duryodhana in certain versions.
   • Discusses concepts of dharma and adharma, tapas, food, sleep, and bhakti, with lessons drawn from Indian spiritual texts.

3. Spiritual Values:

   • Explores the non-dualistic philosophy of the Vedic religion, cultural heritage, and spirituality as conveyed through the epics.
   • Provides interpretations of religious beliefs and deep-rooted cultural systems.

This comprehensive study is based on careful examination of various versions of the Mahabharata from different regions of India (North, South, East, and West), ensuring an inclusive and scholarly approach.

About the Author

Justice P. Kodandaramayya is a distinguished jurist and scholar known for his deep understanding of Indian spirituality and culture.

• He is the founder and chairman of the Arsha Vijnana Trust, dedicated to preserving and disseminating spiritual knowledge.
• Author of other notable works such as "The Light of Ramayana", he combines his legal acumen with profound philosophical insights to interpret ancient Indian texts for modern readers.

Key Features

• Detailed Epic Analysis: Presents a thorough examination of Ramayana and Mahabharata, with lesser-known stories and interpretations.
• Philosophical Insights: Explores non-dualism, dharma, and spiritual practices with relatable explanations.
• Comparative Study: Highlights differences across regional versions of the Mahabharata.
• Cultural Context: Offers a deep dive into India's culture, beliefs, and spirituality, making it an excellent resource for both enthusiasts and scholars.