Introductory editorial content; doctrinal review is required before public publication.
The Mahābhārata is a major Sanskrit epic about the conflict between the Pāṇḍavas and Kauravas, two branches of the Kuru family. Its narratives explore duty, loyalty, power and the consequences of human choices.
Tradition attributes its compilation to Vyāsa; historians study its textual transmission and critical editions. The Bhagavad-gītā is the dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna found within this epic.
Beginners benefit from learning who Arjuna is, why he hesitates before battle and how the main characters are connected. This provides the ethical and narrative setting for the Gītā.
The Mahābhārata is not one of the four Vedas; it belongs to epic literature while remaining central to religious culture.