The Mahabharata of Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa, Volume 4 Books 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18   By: Kisari Mohan [Translator] Ganguli

The Mahabharata is an epic tale that continues to captivate readers with its intricate plot, rich mythology, and timeless lessons. In Volume 4, translator Kisari Mohan Ganguli does a commendable job of bringing this ancient text to life for modern audiences.

Books 13-18 of The Mahabharata delve deeper into the complex relationships and power struggles among the Pandavas and Kauravas, culminating in the great battle of Kurukshetra. Ganguli's translation is both fluid and faithful to the original text, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the epic saga.

One of the highlights of this volume is Ganguli's attention to detail in capturing the nuances of the characters' personalities and motivations. From the noble Arjuna to the cunning Shakuni, each character is brought to life with vivid imagery and emotional depth.

Overall, Volume 4 of The Mahabharata is a must-read for anyone interested in mythology, epic poetry, or ancient Indian literature. Ganguli's translation is a testament to the enduring power of this timeless tale, and will surely resonate with readers for generations to come.

First Page:

"'Yudhishthira said, "O grandsire, tranquillity of mind has been said to be subtile and of diverse forms. I have heard all thy discourses, but still tranquillity of mind has not been mine. In this matter, various means of quieting the mind have been related (by thee), O sire, but how can peace of mind be secured from only a knowledge of the different kinds of tranquillity, when I myself have been the instrument of bringing about all this? Beholding thy body covered with arrows and festering with bad sores, I fail to find, O hero, any peace of mind, at the thought of the evils I have wrought. Beholding thy body, O most valiant of men, bathed in blood, like a hill overrun with water from its springs, I am languishing with grief even as the lotus in the rainy season. What can be more painful than this, that thou, O grandsire, hast been brought to this plight on my account by my people fighting against their foes on the battle field? Other princes also, with their sons and kinsmen, having met with destruction on my account, alas, what can be more painful than this... Continue reading book >>