Mahabharat er Charitabali by Sukhomoy Bhattacharya [Hardcover]

"Ramayana and Mahabharata are eternal histories of India. While other histories have changed over time, the essence of these two epic poems remains unchanged. They embody the endeavors, devotions, and aspirations of India in an eternal throne of poetry," wrote Rabindranath Tagore. We know that Ramayana predates Mahabharata as a poem and holds a higher place, but this does not diminish Mahabharata's grandeur.

Although both epics are often mentioned together, their origins and nature are distinct. Our wise ancestors designated Ramayana as a "kavya" (poem) and Mahabharata as a "Purana-Itihasa" (myth-history). Ramayana primarily echoes the ideals of household life, while Mahabharata encompasses all aspects of human civilization, rituals, and thoughts.

Mahabharata's intricate mysteries and diversity in human character are unparalleled in Indian literature. It is said, "What is not in Mahabharata is not in Bharat," highlighting its comprehensive nature. The legend states that the gods weighed the entire Vedas against Mahabharata, and the latter's greater weight in significance and importance earned it the title "Mahabharata."

Professor Sukhomoy Bhattacharya discusses this profound topic in his rare and significant book. He meticulously follows the original Mahabharata, extracting relevant verses to narrate the life histories of over fifty key characters, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, conflicts, and complexities.

Professor Bhattacharya's profound scholarship, sharp insight, and clear expression make this comprehensive work a rare and thought-provoking interpretation of Mahabharata.