Stories and Fables from The Mahabharata

The Mahabharata is the “book of books”. It is an encyclopedia of ancient Bharat (India). That is why it is said, “What is not in the Mahabharata is not in Bharat (India)”. Expanse and depth of thoughts and ideas in this book are bewildering, The highest and lowest of human nature are painted in glowing colors. The stories of gods, men, demons, birds, beasts, insects and plants are spread on a big canvas. Conflicts of emotions and call of duty, the wisdom and foolishness of human endeavors described in the Mahabharata, stun the readers. The variety of characters and situations are perennial source of inspiration for politicians, poets, writers and scholars. Even for saints and sages.The Mahabharata is full of interesting and instructive fables. Much before the Aesop’s fables, and the Panchtantras, the Mahabharata presented gems of political, diplomatic and humanitarian thoughts and ideas through the fables. They are used to impart valuable ethical and social lessons.The fables from the Mahabharata provide us practical knowledge and also elevate us to higher ethical standards.