Story/Bibek_Debroy

(01) / P. 0001 / [01] 0001. Anukramanika Parva

The table of contents, setting out the background for the recital of the story and summarizing the main incidents

This parva has 210 shlokas and only one chapter. It was clearly a later addition and sets out the background for the recital of the story and summarizes the main incidents, not once, but twice.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (01) / P. 0045 / 『筋書き』 に相当

(01) / P. 0021 / [01] 0002. Parvasamgraha Parva

The various books, giving two listings of the Mahabharata with a very brief summary of the highlights of the story

This parva has 243 shlokas and one chapter. It too was clearly a later addition. It gives two listings of the Mahabharata in the eighteen-parva and the 100-parva classifications. There is also a very brief summary of the highlights of the story.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (01) / P. 0071 / 『各巻の要約』 に相当

(01) / P. 0041 / [01] 0003. Poushya Parva

The story of Poushya; setting up the snake-sacrifice

This parva has 195 shlokas and one chapter. It is the story of Poushya. After the first two sections, which are really summaries and no more, Section 3 is where the main story of the Mahabharata should begin. But not only is this section mostly in prose, unlike the rest of the Mahabharata, it has little to do with the main story, since it has all kinds of incidents that don't quite belong. All this section does is set up the snake-sacrifice.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (01) / P. 0093 / 『パウシャ王』 に相当

(01) / P. 0055 / [01] 0004. Pouloma Parva

About the Bhargava lineage, descended from the great sage Bhrigu, through Chyavana, Pramati, Ruru and Shunaka

This parva has 153 shlokas and nine chapters. The meat of the Mahabharata doesn't start in this parva, since one is still on the snake-sacrifice. Indeed, this parva is mostly about the Bhargava lineage, descended from the great sage Bhrigu. Bhrigu's son was the famous Shukra or Shukracharya and so was the sage Chyavana. Bhrigu married Puloma and anyone descended from Puloma is called Pouloma. That is how this parva obtains its name. The chapters in this parva take us down Bhrigu's lineage, through Chyavana, Pramati, Ruru and Shunaka.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (01) / P. 0115 / 『プローマン』 に相当

(01) / P. 0067 / [01] 0005. Astika Parva

The snake-sacrifice, which provides the setting where the Mahabharata story was told

This parva has 1025 shlokas and forty-one chapters. It is one of the longer parvas and is about the snake-sacrifice, which provides the setting where the Mahabharata story was told. The parva is named after a sage named Astika, who saved the snakes (the major ones) from the snake-sacrifice.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (01) / P. 0135 / 『アースティーカ』 に相当

(01) / P. 0143 / [01] 0006. Adi-Vamshavatarana Parva

The descent of partial incarnations. It relates the story of Uparichara Vasu and Vyasadeva's birth from Parashara and Satyavati.

This parva has 257 shlokas and five chapters. Ansha means partial or secondary incarnation, while avatarana means descent. The parva is thus the descent of partial incarnations. It relates the story of Uparichara Vasu and Vyasadeva's birth from Parashara and Satyavati. It ends with the partial or secondary incarnations of the gods and the demons.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (01) / P. 0239 / 『最初の家系の降下』 に相当

(01) / P. 0165 / [01] 0007. Sambhava Parva

The origins of the core story

This parva comprises 2394 shlokas and sixty-five chapters. The word sambhava means what can originate or be in existence. Hence, this parva is about the origins of the core story. It is one of the longest parvas.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (01) / P. 0261 / 『起源』 に相当

(01) / P. 0337 / [01] 0008. Jatugriha-Daha Parva

Burning down of the house of lac

This parva has 373 shlokas and fifteen chapters. Jatu is lac and griha is house. This parva is about the burning down of the house of lac.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (01) / P. 0425 / 『ラックの家の火災』 に相当

(01) / P. 0365 / [01] 0009. Hidimba-Vadha Parva

Killing of the rakshasa Hidimba

This parva has 169 shlokas and six chapters. Vadha means to slay or kill and this parva is about the killing of the rakshasa Hidimba.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0019 / 『ヒディンバ殺し』 に相当

(01) / P. 0379 / [01] 0010. Baka-Vadha Parva

Killing of the demon Baka

This parva has 206 shlokas and eight chapters. This parva is about the killing of a demon named Baka.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0031 / 『バカ殺し』 に相当

(01) / P. 0395 / [01] 0011. Chaitraratha Parva

Stories of Chitraratha, a gandharva

This parva has 557 shlokas and twenty-one chapters. The parva is named after Chitraratha, a gandharva, whose stories figure in this section.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0045 / 『チトララタ』 に相当

(01) / P. 0437 / [01] 0012. Droupadi-Svayamvara Parva

Droupadi's svayamvara, choosing her own groom

This parva has 263 shlokas and twelve chapters. Svayamvara is a form of marriage where the bride chooses her own groom. The parva is about Droupadi choosing her own groom.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0097 / 『ドラウパディーの婿選び式』 に相当

(01) / P. 0459 / [01] 0013. Vaivahika Parva

Droupadi's marriage

This parva has 155 shlokas and six chapters. Vivaha means wedding and this parva is about Droupadi's marriage.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0115 / 『結婚』 に相当

(01) / P. 0475 / [01] 0014. Viduragamana Parva

Vidura's arrival

This parva has 174 shlokas and seven chapters. Agamana means arrival or coming and this parva is about Vidura's arrival.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0133 / 『ヴィドゥラの到着』 に相当

(01) / P. 0489 / [01] 0015. Rajya-Labha Parva

Acquisition of the kingdom

This parva has a single chapter and there are only fifty shlokas. Rajya-labha means the acquisition of the kingdom.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0151 / 『王国の獲得』 に相当

(02) / P. 0001 / [01] 0016. Arjuna-Vanavasa Parva

Arjuna's sojourn in the forest; begins with the reasons for his banishment

This parva has 298 shlokas. This parva has 11 chapters, Chapters 200 through 210. The word vana means forest and the word vasa means to live. So this parva is about Arjuna's sojourn in the forest and begins with the reasons for his banishment. It recounts his marriage to Ulupi and Chitrangada. This parva also has the Sunda and Upasunda story.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0157 / 『アルジュナ、森に住む』 に相当

(02) / P. 0025 / [01] 0017. Subhadra-Harana Parva

Subhadra's abduction

This parva has fifty-seven shlokas and two chapters. The word harana means abduction. So this parva is about Subhadra's abduction. This is a very short parva.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0187 / 『スバドラーの掠奪』 に相当

(02) / P. 0031 / [01] 0018. Harana Harika Parva

The giving of gifts that followed Subhadra's abduction

This parva has eighty-two shlokas and only one chapter. The word harana means abduction. It also means gifts. Harika means conveying or giving. So this parva is about Subhadra's abduction and the giving of gifts that followed.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0195 / 『結婚の贈物』 に相当

(02) / P. 0039 / [01] 0019. Khandava-Daha Parva

The burning of the Khandava forest by Arjuna and Krishna

This parva has 344 shlokas and twelve chapters. Chaper 219: 40 shlokas The word daha means to burn and, as a noun, also means a fire or a conflagration in the forest. So this parva is about the burning of the Khandava forest by Arjuna and Krishna. It has also stories of the survivors, Ashvasena, Maya and the Sharngaka birds.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0203 / 『カーンダヴァ森炎上』 に相当

(02) / P. 0069 / [02] 0020. Sabha Parva

The building of the assembly hall

This parva has 429 shlokas and eleven chapters. The name of the first section within this parva is also the same as the name of the parva. The word sabha having already been explained.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0235 / 『集会場』 に相当

(02) / P. 0103 / [02] 0021. Mantra Parva

Consultation prior to the royal sacrifice

This parva has 222 shlokas and six chapters. The word mantra has different meanings, but here it means a process of consultation. This section is therefore about a process of consultation prior to the royal sacrifice.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0263 / 『協議（マントラ）』 に相当

(02) / P. 0121 / [02] 0022. Jarasandha-Vadha Parva

The killing of Jarasandha

This section has 195 shlokas and five chapters. The word vadha is the act of killing. This section is therefore about the killing of Jarasandha.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0285 / 『ジャラーサンダ』 に相当

(02) / P. 0137 / [02] 0023. Digvijaya Parva

The conquest of the world by the Pandavas

This section has 191 shlokas and seven chapters. The word digvijaya means the conquest of the directions, that is, the conquest of the world. This section is therefore about the conquest undertaken by the Pandavas.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0305 / 『世界制覇』 に相当

(02) / P. 0153 / [02] 0024. Rajasuya Parva

The royal sacrifice

This section has ninety-seven shlokas and three chapters. This section is about the rajasuya or royal sacrifice.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0309 / 『ラージャスーヤ祭』 に相当

(02) / P. 0161 / [02] 0025. Arghabhiharana Parva

The offering of a gift and the consequent dispute

This section has ninety-nine shlokas and four chapters. Argha (or arghya) is an offering made as a sign of veneration. Abhiharana is the act of fetching or taking. So arghabhiharana parva is about the offering of a gift, as a sign of respect, and the consequent dispute.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0319 / 『引出物の授与』 に相当

(02) / P. 0169 / [02] 0026. Shishupala-Vadha Parva

The killing of Shishupala

This section has 191 shlokas and six chapters. Since vadha means killing this section is about the killing of Shishupala.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0331 / 『シシュパーラ殺し』 に相当

(02) / P. 0185 / [02] 0027. Dyuta Parva

The gambling with dice

This section has 734 shlokas and twenty-three chapters. Dyuta means playing or gambling with dice, and also the resultant prize. So this section is about the gambling with dice.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0351 / 『賭博』 に相当

(02) / P. 0249 / [02] 0028. Anudyuta Parva

The aftermath of the gambling match

This sections has 232 shlokas and seven chapters. As has been mentioned in the earlier section, the word dyuta means playing or gambling with dice, and also the resultant prize. The word anu means after, behind, or in consequence of. So this section is about the aftermath of the gambling match.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (02) / P. 0431 / 『第二の賭博』 に相当

(02) / P. 0271 / [03] 0029. Aranyaka Parva

Pandavas' sojourn in the forest

This section has has 327 shlokas and eleven chapters. The first section within Aranyaka Parva is also called Aranyaka Parva, the word aranyaka having already been explained.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (03) / P. 0017 / 『森林の教え』 に相当

(02) / P. 0299 / [03] 0030. Kirmira-Vadha Parva

The killing of Kirmira

This section has 75 shlokas and only one chapter. Kirmira was a rakshasa mentioned in the last section and as already explained the word vadha means killing. So this section is about the killing of Kirmira.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (03) / P. 0051 / 『キルミーラの殺害』 に相当

(02) / P. 0305 / [03] 0031. Kairata Parva

The story of Shiva assuming the role of a mountain-dweller to fight with Arjuna

This section has 1150 shlokas and thirty chapters. Kiratas, as mentioned earlier, are mountain-dwellers who make a living through hunting. This section is so named because Shiva assumed the form of a kirata and fought with Arjuna.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (03) / P. 0059 / 『山岳民（キラータ）』 に相当

(02) / P. 0395 / [03] 0032. Indralokabhigamana Parva

Arjuna's visit to Indra's world and the Nala-Damayanti story

This section has 1175 shlokas and thirty-seven chapters. Indraloka means Indra's world and abhigamana means to go or visit. So this section is about the visit to Indra's world, meaning Arjuna's visit to Indra's world.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (03) / P. 0121 / 『アルジュナ、インドラの世界へ行く』 に相当

(03) / P. 0001 / [03] 0033. Tirtha-Yatra Parva

Journey to the sacred places of pilgrimage

This parva has 2294 shlokas and seventy-four chapters. The chapters have two numbers, the first being the sequential numbering of the chapters right from the beginning. The second one, the number within brackets, is the sequential numbering of the chapters within Aranyaka Parva. Tirtha means a sacred place of pilgrimage and yatra means a journey. This section is thus primarily about the journey to sacred places of pilgrimage like Pushkara, Prabhasa, Dvaravati, Vinasana, Rudrakoti, Kurukshetra, Mrigadhuma, Naimisha, Saptasarasvata, Prithudaka, Samnihiti, Shakambhari, Suvarnaksha, Varanasi, Gaya, Shalagrama, Rishabha, Gokarna, Prayaga, Gandhamadana and Kailasa. It also has the stories of Agastya, Indra and Vritra, Sagara and Bhagiratha, Rishyashringa, Parashurama and Kartyavirya, Chyavana and Sukanya, Mandhata, Jantu, Shibi Ushinara, Ashtavakra, Yavakrita and the account of the encounter between Hanuman and Bhima.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (03) / P. 0223 / 『聖地巡礼』 に相当

(03) / P. 0201 / [03] 0034. Jatasura-Vadha Parva

Slaying of the demon named Jatasura

This parva has sixty-one shlokas and one chapter. Vadha means to kill or slay and this section is about Bhima killing the demon named Jatasura.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (03) / P. 0433 / 『ジャタースラ殺し』 に相当

(03) / P. 0207 / [03] 0035. Yaksha-Yuddha Parva

Bhima fights with yakshas and rakshasas and kills the rakshasa Maniman

This parva has 727 shlokas and eighteen chapters. Yuddha means battle or fight and the section is named after a fight between Bhima and the yakshas. In this section, the Pandavas visit the sage Vrishaparva on Mount Gandhamadana and then travel to the hermitage of the sage Arshtishena, where they dwell, waiting for Arjuna's return. Reminiscent of Section 33, Droupadi sends Bhima to search for celestial flowers. Bhima fights with yakshas and rakshasas and kills the rakshasa Maniman. The Pandavas meet Kubera and Indra. Arjuna returns and recounts his adventures, repeating much of what has already been said in Sections 31 and 32 (Volume 1). These parts of Section 35 are not only repetitive, and sometimes inconsistent, they don't quite seem to belong. The only new information is about Arjuna's fight with the nivatakavacha demons and the demons who inhabited Hiranyapura.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (03) / P. 0441 / 『夜叉との戦闘』 に相当

(03) / P. 0263 / [03] 0036. Ajagara Parva

Bhima is grasped by Nahusha in the form of a boa; a dialogue between Yudhishthira and Nahusha

This parva has 201 shlokas and six chapters. Ajagara means a boa constrictor, literally something that swallows a goat (aja). The Pandavas retrace their steps to Vrishaparva's hermitage and Badari and then go to visit King Subahu. From there, they go to the origins of the Yamuna and Dvaitavana, on the banks of the Sarasvati. Bhima is then grasped by Nahusha in the form of a boa and this is why this section is called Ajagara Parva. The highlight of this section is a dialogue between Yudhishthira and Nahusha, in the form of a boa.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (03) / P. 0503 / 『大蛇』 に相当

(03) / P. 0281 / [03] 0037. Markandeya Samasya Parva

A long conversation between the Pandavas and Markandeya

This parva has 1694 shlokas and forty-three chapters. The Pandavas return to Kamyaka and are visited by Krishna and then by the sage Markandeya. The word samasya means the completion or filling up of that which is incomplete. This section is so named because of a long conversation between the Pandavas and Markandeya. It has the stories of Manu, the flood and the fish, details about the four yugas (eras) and different kinds of fires, the stories of Vamadeva, Indradyumna, Dhundhumara, Koushika, Angiras and Skanda.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (04) / P. 0019 / 『マールカンデーヤとの会合』 に相当

(03) / P. 0411 / [03] 0038. Droupadi-Satyabhama-Sambada Parva

A conversation between Droupadi and Satyabhama

This parva has eighty-eight shlokas and three chapters. Sambada means conversation and this short parva has a conversation between Droupadi and Satyabhama. Krishna and Satyabhama return to Dvaravati.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (04) / P. 0171 / 『ドラウパディーとサティヤバーマーとの対話』 に相当

(03) / P. 0419 / [03] 0039. Ghosha Yatra Parva

An expedition undertaken by the Kouravas to see the ghoshas in Dvaitavana, where the Pandavas are residing

This parva has 519 shlokas and nineteen chapters. Ghosha means a herdsman, as well as a station where cowherds assemble. Yatra means an expedition or invasion. This parva is named after an expedition the Kouravas undertake to see the ghoshas in Dvaitavana, where the Pandavas are residing. The Kouravas are captured by the gandharvas and are released by the Pandavas. At this insult, Duryodhana resolves to fast to death and is dissuaded. He returns to Hastinapura and performs a sacrifice.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (04) / P. 0181 / 『牧場視察』 に相当

(03) / P. 0459 / [03] 0040. Mriga-Svapna-Bhaya Parva

Deer appear to Yudhishthira in a dream and tell him about their fears

This parva has sixteen shlokas and one chapter. Mriga means deer. Deer appear to Yudhishthira in a dream (svapna) and tell him about their fears (bhaya), requesting the Pandavas to relocate from Dvaitavana.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (04) / P. 0235 / 『鹿の夢』 に相当

(03) / P. 0461 / [03] 0041. Vrihi-Drounika Parva

The story of Mudgala, who lived on a measure of rice and was generous enough to give it away

This parva has 117 shlokas and three chapters. Vrihi means rice, or a grain of rice. Drouni or drona means a vessel, as well as a measure of capacity. Vyasa visits the Pandavas and tells them the story of Mudgala, who lived on a measure (drona) of rice (vrihi) and was generous enough to give it away. Mudgala was tested by the sage Durvasa and turned down an opportunity to go to heaven.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (04) / P. 0239 / 『一枡の米』 に相当

(03) / P. 0471 / [03] 0042. Droupadi Harana Parva

Droupadi's abduction by Jayadratha

This parva has 1247 shlokas and thirty-six chapters. Harana means abduction and this parva is about Droupadi's abduction by Jayadratha. Jayadratha abducts Droupadi. The Pandavas defeat Jayadratha and free Droupadi, shaving Jayadratha's head in the process. Jayadratha obtains a boon from Shiva. This section then tells the story of the Ramayana and Savitri and Satyavan, where Savitri brings her husband, Satyavan, back from the land of the dead.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (04) / P. 0251 / 『ドラウパディー強奪』 に相当

(03) / P. 0563 / [03] 0043. Kundala-Aharana Parva

Indra asks Karna for his natural armour and earrings that make him invincible; in return, gives Karna an invincible spear

This parva has 294 shlokas and eleven chapters. Kundala is an earring and Karna was naturally born with kundalas. Aharana means seizing or taking. Pritha (Kunti) serves Durvasa and obtains a boon. Through this, she invokes Surya and Karna is born. When she abandons Karna, he is adopted and raised by a charioteer. Karna is born with natural armour and earrings that make him invincible. Indra asks for these, and in return, gives Karna an invincible spear.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (04) / P. 0381 / 『耳環の奪取』 に相当

(03) / P. 0587 / [03] 0044. Araneya Parva

Failing to answer a yaksha's questions, Nakula, Sahadeva, Arjuna and Bhima are killed, but are restored to life when Yudhishthira answers the questions correctly

This parva has 191 shlokas and five chapters. Arani means wood used for kindling and this parva is named after that. Requested by a brahmana whose kindling has been lost, the Pandavas pursue a deer. Failing to answer a yaksha's questions, Nakula, Sahadeva, Arjuna and Bhima are killed, but are restored to life when Yudhishthira answers the yaksha's questions correctly.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (04) / P. 0413 / 『火鑽棒（ひきりぼう）』 に相当

(04) / P. 0003 / [04] 0045. Vairata Parva

Pandavas' thirteenth year in disguise in King Virata's kingdom

This section has 282 shlokas and twelve chapters. This section is named after Virata. Virata is the proper name, whereas Vairata is the adjective. In Section 44 (Volume 3), at the end of Aranyaka (Vana) Parva, a brahmana's kindling was robbed by a deer and the Pandavas pursued the deer. This section takes off from there. The Pandavas decide to spend the thirteenth year in disguise in King Virata's kingdom. In individual disguises, the Pandavas and Droupadi arrive in King Virata's court and are accepted by him. Yudhishthira becomes Kanka, Bhima becomes Ballava, Arjuna becomes Brihannada, Nakula becomes Granthika, Sahadeva becomes Tantipala and Droupadi becomes Sairandhri.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (04) / P. 0441 / 『ヴィラータ王』 に相当

(04) / P. 0029 / [04] 0046. Kichaka-Vadha Parva

Kichaka lusts after Droupadi and is killed by Bhima

This section has 353 shlokas and eleven chapters. Vadha means to kill and is also the act of slaying. Kichaka is Virata's general and Sudeshna's brother and lusts after Droupadi. Kichaka is killed by Bhima, which explains the name of this section.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (04) / P. 0473 / 『キーチャカ殺し』 に相当

(04) / P. 0055 / [04] 0047. Go-Grahana Parva

The Kouravas and Trigartas invade Matsya to rob Virata of his cattle but are defeated by the Pandavas

This section has 1009 shlokas and thirty-nine chapters. Go means cattle and grahana means to seize. So this section is about seizing cattle. With Kichaka's death, Virata is weakened and the Kouravas and Trigartas invade Matsya to rob Virata of his cattle. Virata is defeated by Susharma, the king of the Trigartas. However, the four Pandavas (Yudhishthira, Bhima, Nakula, Sahadeva) defeat Susharma and free Virata. Meanwhile, the Kurus rob Virata's kingdom of sixty thousand cattle. However, they are defeated by Arjuna, with Uttara as a charioteer. The Kurus return and the cattle are regained.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (04) / P. 0507 / 『牛の略奪』 に相当

(04) / P. 0133 / [04] 0048. Vaivahika Parva

Arjuna and Subhadra's son, Abhimanyu, is married to Virata's daughter, Uttara

This section has 179 shlokas and five chapters. Vivaha means wedding. After defeating the Kurus and winning back the cattle, Arjuna and Uttara return. The Pandavas reveal themselves. Arjuna and Subhadra's son, Abhimanyu, is married to Virata's daughter, Uttara.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (04) / P. 0585 / 『アビマニユの結婚』 に相当

(04) / P. 0149 / [05] 0049. Udyoga Parva

The Kurus and the Pandavas send word to their allies; Duryodhana and Arjuna go to Krishna to seek help

This section is also known as Udyoga Parva. It has 575 shlokas and twenty-one chapters. There are consultations in Drupada's court about the next course of action. In preparation for war, the Kurus and the Pandavas send word to their allies. However, Drupada's priest is sent to the Kurus as a messenger. Duryodhana and Arjuna go to Krishna to seek his help. Arjuna opts for the unarmed Krishna, who will not take part in the fight and Duryodhana happily accepts Krishna's large army. Balarama says that he will remain neutral, while Kritavarma helps Duryodhana. Duryodhana persuades Shalya to switch to the Kourava side. However, Shalya promises Yudhishthira that he will distract Karna when Karna and Arjuna fight. Shalya tells the Pandavas the story of Trishira, Vritra, Indra and Nahusha. The Kouravas assemble eleven akshouhinis of soldiers, while the Pandavas assemble seven akshouhinis. Drupada's priest delivers the message. Dhritarashtra promises to reflect on this and send Sanjaya back as a messenger.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (05) / P. 0019 / 『努力』 に相当

(04) / P. 0199 / [05] 0050. Sanjaya-Yana Parva

Dhritarashtra sends Sanjaya as an emissary to the Pandavas; this mission does not succeed

This section has 311 shlokas and eleven chapters. The word yana means going or voyage. So this parva is about Sanjaya's journey as a messenger. Dhritarashtra sends Sanjaya as an emissary to the Pandavas. This mission doesn't succeed, though Krishna says that he will go as a messenger to the Kouravas. Yudhishthira asks for five villages (through Sanjaya). Sanjaya returns to Hastinapura.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (05) / P. 0083 / 『サンジャヤの使節』 に相当

(04) / P. 0233 / [05] 0051. Prajagara Parva

Dhritarashtra cannot sleep at night because he is yet to know Yudhishthira's message through Sanjaya

This section has 541 shlokas and nine chapters. Prajagara means sleeplessness, lying awake at night. This parva is so named because Dhritarashtra cannot sleep at night. He still does not know Yudhishthira's message and summons Vidura. Vidura advises Dhritarashtra.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (05) / P. 0109 / 『ドリタラーシトラの不眠』 に相当

(04) / P. 0279 / [05] 0052. Sanatsujata Parva

Sage Sanatsujata instructs Dhritarashtra

This section has 121 shlokas and four chapters. This section is named after Dhritarashtra's questioning of the sage Sanatsujata. Sanatsujata instructs Dhritarashtra.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (05) / P. 0155 / 『サナツジャータ』 に相当

(04) / P. 0293 / [05] 0053. Yana-Sandhi Parva

Sanjaya conveys Arjuna's message and there is a discussion in the assembly of the Kurus; Karna refuses to fight until Bhishma has fallen

This section had 726 shlokas and twenty-four chapters. Yana means moving or journey as a verb and conveyance as a noun. Sandhi means both connection and peace or alliance. So the name of this parva can be interpreted in two different ways, and both are correct. First, there is the straightforward meaning of a journey (Sanjaya's) for peace. Second, this section is the connecting section between two separate journeys, Sanjaya's and Krishna's. Sanjaya conveys Arjuna's message and there is a discussion in the assembly of the Kurus. Karna refuses to fight until Bhishma has fallen. The section ends inconclusively, with a reference to Krishna's impending mission.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (05) / P. 0171 / 『進軍か和平か』 に相当

(04) / P. 0353 / [05] 0054. Bhagavat-Yana Parva

Krishna goes as a messenger to the Kurus; Krishna fails and war is inevitable

This section has 2055 shlokas and sixty-eight chapters Yana means moving or journey as a verb and conveyance as a noun. The parva is so named because Krishna (Bhagavan) goes as a messenger to the Kurus. There are the stories of Dambhodbhava, Matali's search for a son-in-law, Galava's obstinacy, Yayati and Vidula and her son. However, Krishna fails and war is inevitable.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (05) / P. 0229 / 『クリシュナの使節』 に相当

(04) / P. 0503 / [05] 0055. Karna-Upanivada Parva

Krishna and Kunti try to wean Karna away from the Kouravas, but fail

This section has 351 shlokas and eleven chapters. Nivada is an invitation and upa has the connotation of secret. This section is in the nature of a secret invitation to Karna. Both Krishna and Kunti try to wean Karna away, but fail.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (05) / P. 0399 / 『カルナとの密談』 に相当

(04) / P. 0531 / [05] 0056. Abhiniryana Parva

The two sides, Kourava and Pandava, march out to Kurukshetra

This section has 169 shlokas and four chapters. Abhiniryana means the act of marching out. The two sides march out to Kurukshetra.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (05) / P. 0433 / 『進軍』 に相当

(04) / P. 0545 / [05] 0057. Bhishma-Abhishechana Parva

Bhishma is consecrated as the commander-in-chief on the Kourava side

This section has 122 shlokas and four chapters. Abhishechana means the act of consecration, typically with sprinkling of water. This section is so named because it is about Bhishma being consecrated as the commander-in-chief on the Kourava side.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (05) / P. 0449 / 『ビーシュマの任命』 に相当

(04) / P. 0555 / [05] 0058. Uluka-Yana Parva

Duryodhana sends Uluka as a messenger to the Pandavas

This section has 101 shlokas and four chapters. Yana means moving or journey as a verb and conveyance as a noun. The parva is so named because Duryodhana sends Uluka as a messenger to the Pandavas.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (05) / P. 0463 / 『ウルーカの使節』 に相当

(04) / P. 0565 / [05] 0059. Ratha-Atiratha-Samkhya Parva

The charioteers and their strengths are enumerated

This section has 231 shlokas and nine chapters. In increasing order of strength, rathas, maharathas and atirathas are charioteers. Samkhya means count or numbers and this section is so named because these charioteers and their strengths are enumerated.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (05) / P. 0475 / 『戦士と超戦士の列挙』 に相当

(05) / P. 0001 / [05] 0060. Amba-Upakhyana Parva

A short account of Amba, who was reborn as Shikhandi

This parva has 755 shlokas and twenty-eight chapters. Upakhyana is a short tale or episode and this section is so named because it has the short account of Amba, who was reborn as Shikhandi. This section ends Udyoga Parva and everything is set for the war.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (05) / P. 0493 / 『アンバーの物語』 に相当

(05) / P. 0061 / [06] 0061. Jambukhanda-Vinirmana Parva

Gives the measure of Jambukhanda, the central continent on earth

This parva has 378 shlokas and eleven chapters. Vinirmana means creation, as well as measuring out, the latter meaning being relevant here. Jambukhanda or Jambudvipa is one of the continents on earth. It is the central one. This section is about geography and is so named because it gives the measure of Jambukhanda.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (06) / P. 0017 / 『ジャンブー大陸の創造』 に相当

(05) / P. 0093 / [06] 0062. Bhumi Parva

A description of the earth

This parva has eighty-seven shlokas and two chapters. Bhumi means land or the earth and this section is so named because it has a description of the earth.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (06) / P. 0049 / 『地上界〔諸大陸の詳説〕』 に相当

(05) / P. 0101 / [06] 0063. Bhagavad Gita Parva

Includes the Bhagavad Gita, the teachings of Krishna to Arjuna; the section begins with the dramatic news that Bhishma has been killed

This parva has 994 shlokas and twenty-seven chapters. This section is so named because it includes the Song Celestial or the Bhagavad Gita, the teachings of Krishna to Arjuna. The section begins with the dramatic news that Bhishma has been killed. When Sanjaya tells Dhritarashtra this, Dhritarashtra (and the reader) is astounded, wishing to know how this came to be. After a description of the arrangements for war, the rest of this section is the Bhagavad Gita.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (06) / P. 0059 / 『バガヴァッド・ギーター』 に相当

(05) / P. 0209 / [06] 0064. Bhishma Vadha Parva

Describes the first ten days of the battle with Bhishma as the commander-in-chief; the tenth day is marked by Bhishma's downfall

This parva has 3947 shlokas and seventy-seven chapters. Vadha means the act of killing. This section is so named because it is about the killing of Bhishma. The first ten days of the battle have Bhishma as the commander-in-chief. This section thus describes the first ten days of the battle. On the first day, Virata's son, Uttara, is killed. The second day has the Pandavas victorious, the highlight being Bhima's destruction of the Kalingas. There is a ding-dong battle on the third day, with Bhishma triumphant initially (which is when Krishna decides to take up arms), followed by Arjuna's victory. The Pandavas triumph on the fourth day and fourteen of Duryodhana's brothers are killed by Bhima. While there is a lot of fighting on the fifth day, the highlight is Bhurishrava's killing of ten of Satyaki's sons. On balance, the Pandava side is more successful on the sixth day. While there is a great deal of fighting, there is nothing that merits a special mention on the seventh day. On the eighth day, Bhima kills eight of Duryodhana's brothers. Iravat, Arjuna's son, kills several of Shakuni's brothers and is himself killed by the rakshasa Alambusa. Bhima again kills nine of Duryodhana's brothers. On the ninth day, the Pandavas eventually get the worst of it. Krishna decides to kill Bhishma and is restrained by Arjuna. The Pandavas consult Bhishma about how he may be killed and are advised to use Shikhandi. The tenth day is marked by Bhishma's downfall.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (06) / P. 0173 / 『ビーシュマ殺害』 に相当

(05) / P. 0491 / [07] 0065. Dronabhisheka Parva

Drona is consecrated as the supreme commander; the eleventh day of the battle is described

This parva has 634 shlokas and fifteen chapters. Abhishekha means instatement or consecration and the parva is named after Drona's consecration as the supreme commander. After the consecration, this section also describes the eleventh day of the battle. Drona promises to capture Yudhishthira alive. Despite a lot of fighting, nothing of great significance occurs on the eleventh day, though Drona kills some Panchala warriors.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (07) / P. 0019 / 『ドローナの軍司令官就任』 に相当

(05) / P. 0539 / [07] 0066. Samshaptaka Vadha Parva

Samshaptakas take an oath to die or kill Arjuna; on the twelfth day of the battle, Arjuna kills several of the samshaptaka warriors

This parva has 717 shlokas and sixteen chapters. Samshaptakas are warriors who have taken an oath and these warriors (primarily the Trigartas) take an oath to die or kill Arjuna. This section is named after that oath. With Arjuna out of the way, the idea is that Drona will capture Yudhishthira. On the twelfth day of the battle, Arjuna kills several of the samshaptaka warriors. Drona kills many of the Panchalas, Matsyas and Kekayas. Bhima kills the king of Anga. Bhagadatta kills the king of Dasharna and Ruchiparva and unleashes the vaishnava weapon on Arjuna, which is countered by Krishna. Arjuna kills Bhagadatta. Arjuna kills Vrishaka and Achala, Shakuni's brothers. Ashvatthama kills Nila of Mahishmati. Arjuna kills three of Karna's brothers.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (07) / P. 0071 / 『特攻隊（サンシヤプタカ）の殺戮』 に相当

(06) / P. 0003 / [07] 0067. Abhimanyu-Vadha Parva

Abhimanyu, the son of Arjuna and Subhadra, penetrates the chakra vyuha that Drona constructs and is killed by Jayadratha

This parva has 643 shlokas and twenty chapters. This section is about the killing of Abhimanyu, the son of Arjuna and Subhadra. These are incidents that occur on the thirteenth day of the battle. Drona constructs the chakra vyuha1 and Abhimanyu alone knows how to penetrate it, Arjuna having been summoned away by the samshaptakas.2 When Abhimanyu penetrates the vyuha, the others on the Pandava side are supposed to follow and protect him. However, they are restrained by Jayadratha, who has obtained a boon from Shiva. Abhimanyu kills the younger brothers of Shalya and Karna, Vasatiya, Shalya's son (Rukmaratha), one hundred princes, Duryodhana's son (Lakshmana), Kratha's son, Vrindaraka, Brihadbala (the king of Kosala), six of Karna's advisers, Ashvaketu (from Magadha), Martikavata (from Bhoja), Shatrunjaya, Chandraketu, Mahavega, Suvarcha, Suryabhasa, Kalakeya (Shakuni's brother) and rathas3 from the Brahma-Vasatiyas and Kekayas. Abhimanyu is then killed by Duhshasana's son. On return, Arjuna takes an oath to kill Jayadratha on the next day.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (07) / P. 0117 / 『アビマニユの死』 に相当

(06) / P. 0057 / [07] 0068. Pratijna Parva

Arjuna vows to kill Jayadratha

This parva has 365 shlokas and nine chapters. The word pratijna means vow or promise and this section is named after Arjuna's vow to kill Jayadratha. There is no fighting in this section, the events transpiring between the night of the thirteenth day and the morning of the fourteenth. Arjuna obtains the pashupata weapon from Shiva.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (07) / P. 0175 / 『誓約』 に相当

(06) / P. 0087 / [07] 0069. Jayadratha-Vadha Parva

Arjuna kills Jayadratha

This parva has 2914 shlokas and sixty-one chapters. The word vadha means death or killing and this section is named after the death or killing of Jayadratha. The Kouravas make arrangements to protect Jayadratha. Though Arjuna fights with Drona and Kritavarma, he is really interested in Jayadratha. Shrutayudha of Kalinga is killed. Arjuna kills Sudakshina of Kamboja, Shrutayu, Achyutayu, Ayutayu, Dirghayu and another Shrutayu (from Ambashtha). Drona fastens invincible armour on Duryodhana. Arjuna kills Vinda and Anuvinda from Avanti. Brihatkshatra (of Kekaya) kills Kshemadhurti, Dhrishtaketu kills Viradhanva (from the Trigartas), Sahadeva kills Niramitra (from the Trigartas), Satyaki kills Vyaghradatta (from Magadha), Shatanika (Nakula's son) kills Shala (Somadatta's son), Ghatotkacha kills Alambusa, Drona kills many on the Pandava side, Satyaki kills Jalasanda (of Magadha) and Sudarshana, Drona kills several Panchala princes, Brihatkshatra (from Kekaya), Shishupala's son Dhrishtaketu (from Chedi) and his son, Jarasandha's son, Kshatradharma (Dhrishtadyumna's son), Bhima kills several of Duryodhana's brothers, Satyaki kills Alambusa, Arjuna and Satyaki kill Bhurishrava. Finally, Arjuna kills Jayadratha.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (07) / P. 0207 / 『ジャヤドラタの死』 に相当

(06) / P. 0297 / [07] 0070. Ghatotkacha-Vadha Parva

Karna kills Ghatotkacha with the spear that he has saved for Arjuna

This parva has 1642 shlokas and thirty-three chapters. This section is named after the death or killing of Ghatotkacha by Karna. When Jayadratha is killed on the fourteenth day of the war, the battle continues to rage through the night. Drona kills King Shibi of Kashi, Bhima kills the princes of Kalinga and some of Duryodhana's brothers, Ashvatthama kills Anjanaparva (Ghatotkacha's son) and several warriors on the Pandava side, Bhima kills Bahlika, Karna's brother and Shakuni's brothers, Ashvatthama kills many Panchalas, Satyaki kills Somadatta and Bhuri, Shalya kills Shatanika (Virata's brother), Dhrishtadyumna kills Drumasena, Ghatotkacha kills Alambala (Jatasura's son) and the rakshasa Alayudha and finally, Karna kills Ghatotkacha with the spear that he has saved for Arjuna.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (07) / P. 0429 / 『ガトートカチャの死』 に相当

(06) / P. 0419 / [07] 0071. Drona-Vadha Parva

Bhima kills an elephant named Ashvatthama and Bhima and Yudhishthira tell Drona that Ashvatthama has been killed; when Drona casts aside his weapons, he is killed by Dhrishtadyumna

This parva has 692 shlokas and eleven chapters. This section is named after the death or killing of Drona. The fight continues in the night and day dawns on the fifteenth day of the war. Drona kills three of Drupada's grandsons and Drupada and Virata. He causes great destruction. Bhima kills an elephant named Ashvatthama and Bhima and Yudhishthira tell Drona that Ashvatthama has been killed. When Drona casts aside his weapons, he is killed by Dhrishtadyumna and Ashvatthama is told the news.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (07) / P. 0571 / 『ドローナの死』 に相当

(06) / P. 0471 / [07] 0072. Narayana Astra Moksha Parva

Angry at Drona's death, Ashvatthama invokes the naryana astra which is countered by Krishna and Arjuna

This parva has 538 shlokas and eight chapters. This section is named after the release (moksha) from the divine narayana weapon. Angry at Drona's death, Ashvatthama invokes the naryana astra, which was obtained from Narayana. This weapon cannot be countered by fighting and Krishna advises the Pandavas to lay down their weapons. Ashvatthama then kills Pourava Vriddhakshatra, Sudarshana from Malava and the prince of Chedi. Asvatthama's divine weapons are countered by Krishna and Arjuna. The section ends with the praise of Shiva. This section also ends Drona Parva and the fifteenth day of the war.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (07) / P. 0633 / 『ナーラーヤナの武器の発射』 に相当

(07) / P. 0003 / [08] 0073. Karna-Vadha Parva

After Drona's death, Karna is made the overall commander; Duryodhana asks Shalya to be Karna's charioteer;Bhima kills Duhshasana and drinks his blood; Arjuna kills Karna

This parva has 3,870 shlokas and sixty-nine chapters. Vadha means killing and the section is named after the killing of Karna. It is also simply known as Karna Parva. After Drona's death, Karna is made the overall commander. Bhima kills Kshemadhurti (the king of Kuluta), Satyaki kills Vinda and Anuvinda from Kekaya, Droupadi's sons kill Chitrasena and Chitra from Abhisara, Arjuna kills Dandadhara and Danda from Magadha, Ashvatthama kills Pandya, and Arjuna kills large numbers of the enemy (primarily the samshaptakas1 ). On the seventeenth day, on Karna's request, Duryodhana asks Shalya to be Karna's charioteer. Bhima kills Karna's son, Satyasena and some of Duryodhana's brothers, Kripa kills Suketu from Panchala, and Arjuna, Bhima and Karna kill many of the enemy. Uttamouja kills Sushena, Karna's son. Karna kills many warriors on the Pandava side and, in an inconsistent statement, Satyaki kills Sushena, Karna's son. Bhima kills some of Duryodhana's brothers. In a major highlight of the war, Bhima kills Duhshasana and drinks his blood. Arjuna kills Vrishasena, Karna's son. Finally, Arjuna kills Karna.

[筑摩書房/ちくま学芸文庫] (上村 勝彦) 原典訳マハーバーラタ (08) / P. 0017 / 『カルナの死』 に相当

(07) / P. 0317 / [09] 0074. Shalya-Vadha Parva

Shalya is appointed the supreme commander of the Kourava army; Yudhishthira kills Shalya and Shalya's younger brother

This parva has 844 shlokas and sixteen chapters. Vadha means killing and the section is named after the killing of Shalya. Shalya is appointed the supreme commander of the Kourava army. Nakula kills Karna's sons. Duryodhana kills Chekitana, the prince of Chedi. Ashvatthama kills Suratha of Panchala. Yudhishthira kills Shalya and Shalya's younger brother.

(07) / P. 0379 / [09] 0075. Hrada-Pravesha Parva

Bhima kills Duryodhana's remaining brothers; Sahadeva kills Shakuni; Duryodhana enters a lake and hides there

This parva has 664 shlokas and twelve chapters. Satyaki kills Shalva, the king of the mlechhas, and Kshemadhurti. Bhima kills Duryodhana's remaining brothers. Arjuna kills warriors from Trigarta, including Susharma, the king of Trigarta. Sahadeva kills Shakuni and his son, Uluka. Duryodhana enters (pravesha) a lake (hrada) and hides there, the section being named after this. The survivors, including the women, flee to Hastinapura.

(07) / P. 0427 / [09] 0076. Tirtha Yatra Parva

It is discovered that Duryodhana is hiding in Lake Dvaipayana; Bhima and Duryodhana prepare to fight; Balarama returns from his pilgrimage to witness the encounter

This parva has 1261 shlokas and twenty-five chapters. It is discovered that Duryodhana is hiding in Lake Dvaipayana. Bhima and Duryodhana prepare to fight. Balarama returns from his pilgrimage to witness the encounter. This parva has a description of places of pilgrimage (tirtha). Yatra means travel or journey and this section is accordingly named after a journey to places of pilgrimage.

(07) / P. 0521 / [09] 0077. Gada Yuddha Parva

Bhima and Duryodhana fight with clubs, where, Bhima strikes Duryodhana unfairly and brings him down; Krishna goes to Hastinapura and pacifies Dhritarashtra and Gandhari

This parva has 546 shlokas and eleven chapters. Gada means a club and yuddha means a fight or encounter. This section is named after Bhima and Duryodhana's encounter with the clubs, where, Bhima strikes Duryodhana unfairly and brings him down. Krishna goes to Hastinapura and pacifies Dhritarashtra and Gandhari.

(08) / P. 0003 / [10] 0078. Souptika Parva

Ashvatthama sees an owl kill sleeping crows and decides that the Pandavas and Panchalas should be killed in the night, while they are asleep

This parva has 515 shlokas and nine chapters. In the night, Ashvatthama sees an owl kill sleeping crows and decides that the Pandavas and Panchalas should be killed in the night, while they are asleep. Kripa and Kritavarma try to dissuade Ashvatthama, but fail. Ashvatthama worships Shiva and Shiva enters his body. Ashvatthama kills Dhrishtadyumna, Shikhandi, Uttamouja, Yudhamanyu, other Panchalas and Droupadi's sons. This information is conveyed to Duryodhana and Duryodhana dies.

(08) / P. 0043 / [10] 0079. Aishika Parva

Ashvatthama and Arjuna invoke their brahmashira weapons, which threaten to destroy the worlds; Arjuna withdraws his and Ashvatthama's is diverted towards the wombs of the Pandava women

This parva has 257 shlokas and nine chapters. Aishika is a reed, or blade of grass and this parva is named after Ashvatthama invoking a divine weapon on a reed. Bhima pursues Ashvatthama, to exact vengeance. Ashvatthama and Arjuna invoke their brahmashira weapons, which threaten to destroy the worlds. Arjuna withdraws his and Ashvatthama's is diverted towards the wombs of the Pandava women. Ashvatthama's weapon destroys Uttara's foetus (Parikshit), but Parikshit will be revived by Krishna. Ashvatthama gives up his gem.

(08) / P. 0067 / [11] 0080. Vishoka Parva

Vidura attempts to dispel Dhritarashtra's sorrow

This parva has 194 shlokas and eight chapters. Vishoka means the end of sorrow, or to be freed from sorrow. This parva is named after Vidura's attempt to dispel Dhritarashtra's sorrow.

(08) / P. 0085 / [11] 0081. Stri Parva

Pandavas meet Dhritarashtra and Gandhari; Dhritarashtra wants to crush Bhima to death, but is offered an iron image instead by Krishna; Vedavyasa dissuades Gandhari from cursing the Pandavas; Gandhari's glance distorts Yudhishthira's nails

This parva has 468 shlokas and seventeen chapters. This section is named after the women. When the Pandavas meet Dhritarashtra and Gandhari, Dhritarashtra wants to crush Bhima to death, but is offered an iron image instead by Krishna. Vedavyasa dissuades Gandhari from cursing the Pandavas. Gandhari's glance distorts Yudhishthira's nails. Slain warriors and funeral rites are described. Gandhari curses Krishna.

(08) / P. 0125 / [11] 0082. Shraddha Parva

The dead warriors are cremated and their funeral rites performed

This parva has forty-four shlokas and only one chapter. Shraddha is a funeral ceremony for dead relatives and this parva is named after that. The dead warriors are cremated and their funeral rites performed.

(08) / P. 0129 / [11] 0083. Jala-Pradanika Parva

The observation of water-rites and the offering of water to the dead warriors takes place; Kunti tells the Pandavas that Karna was their elder brother

This parva has twenty-four shlokas and only one chapter. Jala is water and pradana is to give. After the cremation, this parva is named after the observation of water-rites and the offering of water to the dead warriors. Kunti also tells the Pandavas that Karna was their elder brother.

(08) / P. 0135 / [12] 0084. Raja Dharma Parva

Yudhishthira sorrows over Karna and Narada recounts the story of Karna being cursed and his exploits; Yudhishthira wishes to leave for the forest, but is dissuaded and is asked to learn about dharma from Bhishma; Yudhishthira is crowned

This parva has 4,509 shlokas and 128 chapters. Raja is king and raja dharma is the dharma of kings. Knowing that Karna was Kunti's son, Yudhishthira sorrows over him and Narada recounts the story of Karna being cursed and his exploits. Yudhishthira wishes to leave for the forest, but is dissuaded. He is asked to learn about dharma from Bhishma and enters Hastinapura. Yudhishthira is crowned. Bhishma teaches Yudhishthira about raja dharma, the dharma of the four varnas and the four ashramas.

(08) / P. 0503 / [12] 0085. Apad Dharma Parva

Bhishma instructs Yudhishthira about the nature of dharma to be followed during a misfortune or a calamity

This parva has 1,560 shlokas and thirty-nine chapters. Apad means a misfortune or a calamity. In such situations, the nature of dharma to be followed is different and Bhishma instructs Yudhishthira about this.

(08) / P. 0625 / [12] 0086. Moksha Dharma Parva

Bhisma talks about moksha, which means liberation, as opposed to the pursuit of dharma, artha and kama

This parva has 6,935 shlokas and 186 chapters. Moksha means liberation, as opposed to the pursuit of dharma, artha and kama.

(09) / P. 0003 / [12] 0086. Moksha Dharma Parva

Moksha means liberation, as opposed to the pursuit of dharma, artba and kama

This parva has 6,935 shlokas and 186 chapters. Moksha means liberation, as opposed to the pursuit of dharma, artha and kama.

(09) / P. 0493 / [13] 0087. Dana Dharma Parva

The dharma to be followed in dana-gifts, donations, giving things away in charity

This parva has 6409 shlokas and 152 chapters. Dana means gifts, donations, giving things away in charity. So this section is about the dharma to be followed in dana.

(10) / P. 0003 / [13] 0087. Dana Dharma Parva

The dharma to be followed in dana-gifts, donations, giving things away in charity

This section has 6450 shlokas and 152 chapters. Dana means gifts, donations, giving things away in charity. So this section is about the dharma to be followed in dana.

(10) / P. 0331 / [13] 0088. Bhishma-Svargarohana Parva

Bhishma's death and ascent to heaven

This section has 84 shlokas and 2 chapters. Svarga means heaven and arohana means ascent. Thus, this parva is about Bhishma's death and ascent to heaven.

(10) / P. 0339 / [14] 0089. Ashvamedhika Parva

There is a recital of the Anu-Gita; Krishna leaves for Dvaraka and there is a discourse with Utanka on the way; Yudhishthira collects riches for the horse sacrifice; Krishna returns to Hastinapura; Parikshit is born dead, but is revived by Krishna; Yudhishthira's horse sacrifice is held and there is the incident of the mongoose

This section has 2743 shlokas and 96 chapters. Ashva means a horse and medha means a sacrifice. Thus, Ashvamedhika Parva or Ashvamedha Parva is about a horse sacrifice. In the 18-parva classification, Ashvamedhika Parva is the 14th. In the 100-parva classification, Ashvamedhika Parva is Section 89. In the numbering of the chapters in Ashvamedhika Parva, the first number is a consecutive one, starting with the beginning of the Mahabharata. And the second number, within brackets, is the numbering of the chapter within Ashvamedhika Parva. There is a recital of the Anu-Gita. Krishna leaves for Dvaraka and there is a discourse with Utanka on the way. Yudhishthira collects riches for the horse sacrifice, this section being named after that. Krishna returns to Hastinapura. Parikshit is born dead, but is revived by Krishna. As the horse travels around, Arjuna fights with the Trigartas, Vajradatta (Bhagadatta's son), the Saindhavas, Babhruvahana (his son through Chitrangada), Magadha, Shakuni's son and many others. Yudhishthira's horse sacrifice is held and there is the incident of the mongoose.

(10) / P. 0553 / [15] 0090. Ashrama-Vasa Parva

Dhritarashtra, Gandhari, Sanjaya, Vidura and Kunti leave for the forest; Vidura dies and merges into Yudhishthira

This section has 737 shlokas and 35 chapters. Ashrama-Vasa Parva means more or less the same as Ashrama-Vasika Parva. A bit more accurately, Ashrama-Vasika means residents of the forest, while Ashrama-Vasa means residence in the forest. Dhritarashtra, Gandhari, Sanjaya, Vidura and Kunti leave for the forest. Vidura dies and merges into Yudhishthira.

(10) / P. 0611 / [15] 0091. Putra Darshana Parva

Vyasa uses the power of his austerities to show everyone the dead warriors, including the sons of Dhritarashtra and Gandhari; after visiting Dhritarashtra, Gandhari and Kunti, the Pandavas return to Hastinapura

This section has 234 shlokas and 9 chapters. Putra means son and darshana means sight. Vyasa uses the power of his austerities to show everyone the dead warriors, including the sons of Dhritarashtra and Gandhari. That explains the name of this parva. After visiting Dhritarashtra, Gandhari and Kunti, the Pandavas return to Hastinapura.

(10) / P. 0629 / [15] 0092. Naradagamana Parva

Narada arrives and tells the Pandavas that Dhritarashtra, Gandhari and Kunti have been killed in a forest fire and Sanjaya has gone off to the Himalayas

This section has 91 shlokas and 3 chapters. Agamana means arrival and this parva is about Narada's arrival. Narada arrives and tells the Pandavas that Dhritarashtra, Gandhari and Kunti have been killed in a forest fire and Sanjaya has gone off to the Himalayas.

(10) / P. 0637 / [16] 0093. Mousala Parva

The Yadavas are cursed by sages that they will be destroyed by clubs; grass turns to clubs and the Yadavas kill each other with these; Balarama and Krishna give up their lives on earth; Arjuna's powers vanish

This section has 273 shlokas and 9 chapters. In the 18-parva classification, Mousala Parva is the 16th. In the 100-parva classification, Mousala Parva constitutes Section 93. The word musala means club or mace. The Yadavas are cursed by sages that they will be destroyed by clubs. Grass turns to clubs and the Yadavas kill each other with these. Balarama and Krishna give up their lives on earth. Arjuna's powers vanish. In the numbering of the chapters in Mousala Parva, the first number is a consecutive one, starting with the beginning of the Mahabharata. And the second number, within brackets, is the numbering of the chapter within Mousala Parva.

(10) / P. 0659 / [17] 0094. Maha-Prasthanika Parva

It has the story of the departure of the Pandavas for the Himalayas and their deaths, one after another; and of Dharma disguised as a dog and Yudhishthira's ascent to heaven, in his physical body

This section has 106 shlokas 3 chapters. Maha means great and prasthana means journey or departure. Thus, maha-prasthana literally means great journey, but stands for departure from this world, or death. Maha-Prasthanika Parva is about the departure of the Pandavas for the Himalayas and their deaths, one after another. It has the story of Dharma disguised as a dog and Yudhishthira's ascent to heaven, in his physical body. In the 18-parva classification, Maha-Prasthanika Parva is the 17th. In the 100-parva classification, Maha-Prasthanika Parva consists of Section 94 alone. In the numbering of the chapters in Maha-Prasthanika Parva, the first number is a consecutive one, starting with the beginning of the Mahabharata. And the second number, within brackets, is the numbering of the chapter within Maha-Prasthanika Parva.

(10) / P. 0669 / [18] 0095. Svargarohana Parva

The last parva of the Mahabharata; Yudhishthira is shown hell and then goes to heaven

This section has 194 shlokas and 5 chapters. In the 18-parva classification, Svargarohana Parva is the 18th. In the 100-parva classification, Svargarohana Parva consists of Section 95 alone. It is the last Parva of the Mahabharata. Svarga means heaven and arohana means ascent. Thus, Svargarohana Parva is about the ascent to heaven. Yudhishthira is shown hell and then goes to heaven. In the numbering of the chapters in Svargarohana Parva, the first number is a consecutive one, starting with the beginning of the Mahabharata. And the second number, within brackets, is the numbering of the chapter within Svargarohana Parva.