Indian Mythology Encyclopedia
Heroes, battles and sagas from the Mahabharata, Ramayana and the Puranas.
149 entries
The Ramayana – Epic of Hinduism, one of India’s oldest and most revered epics, isn’t just a tale of gods, demons, and epic battles. It’s a treasure trove of timeless moral lessons that resonate even today. As I delve into its rich narrative, I’m struck by how its characters embody virtues like loyalty, duty, and … Read more
Kamsa: The Tyrant King and the Fateful Encounter with Krishna Kamsa was the maternal uncle of Krishna – An Incarnation of Vishnu, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. Known for his cruelty and ruthless rule over the kingdom of Mathura, Kamsa’s fate was sealed by a prophecy. When it was foretold that the eighth child of … Read more
Quick facts In brief The Mahabharata’s lasting impact across visual, digital and performing arts. Origin Composed between 400 BCE and 400 CE, attributed to sage Vyasa, with around 100,000 verses. Visual art Pattachitra, Madhubani and Mysore paintings; temple sculpture at Mahabalipuram and Khajuraho. Performing arts Kathakali and Koodiyattam dance; theater including Peter Brook’s adaptation. Global … Read more
The Kurukshetra War, a pivotal event in the Indian epic Mahabharata – The Great Epic, is a treasure trove of ancient military strategies and tactics. As I delved into the intricate maneuvers and battlefield decisions, I found a complex web of strategy that rivals even the most sophisticated modern warfare techniques. The war wasn’t just … Read more
Vasishta, one of the most revered sages in Hindu mythology, is the chief among the Saptarishis (the seven great sages). His influence spans across the spiritual and royal realms, as he was the preceptor of the Ikshvaku dynasty, also known as the Surya (Solar) dynasty, a lineage that includes many prominent figures in Hindu epics, … Read more
अश्वत्थामा Ashwatthama, the son of Drona and Kripi, had an extraordinary birth. As an infant, he neighed like a horse, which led to his name, derived from the Sanskrit word “Ashwa” meaning horse. Ashwatthama formed a fateful friendship with Duryodhana, the eldest Kaurava, during their time as students under Drona, his father. This bond significantly … Read more
The Ramayana – Epic of Hinduism, an ancient Indian epic, has transcended its origins to become a global cultural phenomenon. It’s not just a story but a tapestry of morals, values, and timeless wisdom that has captivated audiences far beyond the Indian subcontinent. From Southeast Asia to the Caribbean, the epic’s themes of duty, honor, … Read more
Nabhaga was a king of the Solar dynasty, a prominent lineage that traces its ancestry to Surya (the Sun god) and is known for producing illustrious rulers renowned for their righteousness and valor. As the son of Yayati and an ancestor of Rama, Nabhaga held a significant place in the royal lineage that would ultimately … Read more
This episode is from [Maha:3.36-3.40]. Though Bheema outwardly affected to despise Karna and to belittle his prowess in battle, in reality, he had a very deep respect for the skill of that son of Radha. It was well known that the armor of Karna was of celestial origin. It was also generally believed that he … Read more
The Mahabharata – The Great Epic, an ancient Indian epic, is a colossal tapestry of heroism, intrigue, and profound philosophy. Spanning over 100,000 verses, it’s not just a tale but a universe teeming with gods, warriors, and sages, each playing their part in a cosmic drama. The sheer scale of its narrative, weaving through generations … Read more