The Journey of Reading Mahabharata and Bhagavad Gita

When I was in school, my father gave me copies of Ramcharit Manas, Mahabharat, and Geeta on my subsequent birthdays. Mahabharata and Geeta have always been special to me, just like the stories of Ramcharit Manas. I read Mahabharata cover to cover and enjoyed it thoroughly. The epic tale of the Pandavas and the Kurukshetra War is a masterpiece that has captivated generations with its profound narratives and moral lessons. Geeta, however, was a different story. I read it in parts but never in its entirety. I hope one of these days, I will revisit it.

How Many Have Read Mahabharata and Bhagavad Gita?

According to various estimates, quite a few people have read the Bhagavad Gita from cover to cover. With only 700 stanzas, it is a relatively small part of the vast Mahabharata, which contains about 100,000 stanzas. It may be around a million people who have read Geeta entirely, while Mahabharata itself is read thoroughly by a few thousand people.

Mainstream Awareness and Listening to Mahabharata

It is quite difficult to determine the exact number of people who have read Mahabharata from cover to cover. However, it is easier to gauge the number of people who have heard the stories through the Upanishas and other traditional methods of storytelling. The figure may range anywhere between 400 million to 600 million, which includes those who have listened to at least a part of the epic. This encompassed not only official readings but also informal storytelling and cultural practices passed down through generations.

Conclusion and Reminiscence

Through my childhood and young adulthood, the stories of Mahabharata and Bhagavad Gita have been more than just books; they have been a part of my learning and understanding of life. Reading these texts, whether in full or in part, is a journey rich in insights and wisdom that continue to influence us as we navigate the complexities of human existence. Each story, each verse, and each lesson serves as a reminder of the universal truths that connect us all, transcending time and culture.

As I recall these memories, it strikes me how important it is to preserve and continue the tradition of reading and passing down these ancient texts. Whether you read them from cover to cover or hear them in a quiet corner of your home, the essence of Mahabharata and Bhagavad Gita remains a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of human wisdom.