Mahabharata: The Great Indian Epic by Sudarshan Ray - English | Paperback | Book on Ancient Indian Stories about Pandavas and Kauravas | Kurukshetra War | Greatest Epic of India

MAHABHARATA- The Great Epic BY SUDARSHAN RAYBeing a mythology fan, I have read few retellings on Mahabharata. It is a vast and complex epic with many subplots beyond the central conflict between the Kouravas and Pandavas.However, this book presented a fresh take on the epic. It is divided into 6 parts and then sub-parts. I loved the neutral stance of the author, and how the events are described as they unfold and not with the viewpoint of any particular character. There are family trees, maps and even a very detailed glossary for reference. The amount of research that went into the book is commendable.My favourite part of the book was the battle events. The details and setting is so well described that I felt like watching a movie sequence in my mind. There are several stories that I had never read before and was quite surprised to know that it's part of the epic. The writing style is so eloquent. The chapters are quite short so the concise way of storytelling kept me hooked until the end.Something that I love about Mahabharata is that no character is inherently good or evil. The morally grey characters makes it relatable. We can derive lessons in our life from an epic that was written ages ago. Sudarshan's narration brilliantly covers the early stories and events leading up to the main conflict, showcasing the depth of human emotion that keeps the epic timeless and compelling.Overall, the stellar narration, simple language and short chapters made it an easy read despite the 500 pages length. Definitely recommended to anyone wishing to get into mythology for the first time.

It is an admirable retelling which strikes a balance between simplicity and sophistication. It will be a gripping introduction to Indian mythology for newcomers to the subject, but seasoned operators will enjoy the high-quality presentation of mythic characters and themes The book is neatly split into six thematic parts, and with useful aids like charts and family trees, the reader can easily find his way around and feel transported.Ray's narrative is unforced and engaging, avoiding heavy writing but not sacrificing the ethical depth of the original epic. The author is successful in fleshing out characters like Duryodhan and Karna, so that one feels sympathetic towards them without placing them in predetermined roles of goodness. The exploration of dharma, karma, and power is well thought out but realistic, sensitively woven into the narrative.All that being said, however, the book does have its weaknesses. There are moments in it that feel slightly hurried.With such terse minor flaws, the book's strongest point is its clarity, emotional depth, and ability to make one ponder. It achieves simplification without weakening the potency of the epic. This is an excellent reader for everyone who would be interested in Mahabharata, and despite its flaws, richly enjoyable too. A Recommended highly for mythology buffs and curious minds as well.

Mahabharata: The Great Indian Epic by Sudarshan Ray is a masterful retelling that condenses the vast and intricate story of the Mahabharata into an accessible 484-page narrative. Ideal for both newcomers to Indian mythology and those familiar with the epic, this book presents the grandeur, moral dilemmas, and philosophical depth of the original in a way that is easy to follow yet deeply thought-provoking.Ray’s writing style is straightforward and engaging, avoiding overly complex prose while maintaining the depth and nuance of the story. The structured organization—divided into six thematic sections—helps readers navigate the epic’s many events and characters without feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, useful tools like charts, family trees, and explanations of Sanskrit terms enhance the reading experience, making it both informative and immersive.One of the book’s strongest aspects is its portrayal of characters. Rather than simplifying them into heroes and villains, Ray highlights their moral complexities and human struggles, allowing readers to interpret their choices and motivations in their own way. Themes of dharma, karma, and the nature of power are seamlessly interwoven into the narrative, offering philosophical insights that remain relevant today.Beyond the legendary battles and dramatic conflicts, the book also explores the cultural and spiritual dimensions of the Mahabharata, making it more than just a retelling—it’s a journey into India’s rich philosophical heritage. Ray’s balanced approach respects the original while ensuring modern readability, making this an excellent choice for anyone looking to understand the Mahabharata without the challenge of its original vastness.Overall, Mahabharata: The Great Indian Epic is a rewarding read that captures the essence of the legendary saga in a clear, structured, and meaningful way. Whether you’re a mythology enthusiast or a first-time reader, this book is a fantastic way to experience one of the world’s greatest epics. Highly recommended!