The Itihasa Epics & 18 Mahapuranas
The Itihasa (epic history) and Purana traditions represent the extensive narrative literature of ancient India, making profound philosophical and ethical concepts accessible across generations. The Ramayana, authored by Maharishi Valmiki in 24,000 verses across seven Kandas (books), establishes the archetype of Maryada Purushottama through the life of Rama. The Mahabharata, composed by Maharishi Ved Vyasa, is the world's longest epic poem, comprising over 100,000 verses across eighteen Parvas; its Bhishma Parva contains the seminal philosophical dialogue of the Bhagavad Gita between Krishna and Arjuna. Complementing these epics, the eighteen Mahapuranas—including the Vishnu, Bhagavata, and Vayu Puranas—expound the five classical characteristics (Panchalakshana): creation (Sarga), recreation (Pratisarga), cosmic cycles (Manvantaras), genealogies of gods and sages (Vamsha), and royal dynastic chronicles (Vamshanucharita).
Key Concepts & Examination Highlights
- The Ramayana composed by Valmiki consists of 24,000 verses divided into 7 Kandas (Bala, Ayodhya, Aranya, Kishkindha, Sundara, Yuddha, and Uttara).
- The Bhagavad Gita comprises 700 verses spread across 18 chapters located within the Bhishma Parva of the Mahabharata.
- Classical Puranas are characterized by 'Panchalakshana' (five topics: Sarga, Pratisarga, Vamsha, Manvantara, and Vamshanucharita).
- The 18 Mahapuranas are traditionally categorized into three groups of six dedicated to Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.