The story of the birth of the Kauravas. -Why the Kurus chose Gandhari as Dhritarshtra's bride? -How Gandhari gives birth to 100 sons and one daughter, in-vitro? -Why some in the Kuru court wanted Dhritarashtra to kill the infant Duryodhana? Gandhari was blessed with a boon to produce 100 sons. So she is frustrated when things don't go exactly as she had hoped–the pregnancy was unusual and she had not given birth to any sons yet. Dwaipayana comes to the rescue and Gandhari finally has her 100 sons, they are all born in-vitro (outside the body). Dhritarashtra is delighted, but some people in the court have reason to believe that the Kuru dynasty is better off without his heir and first born, Duryodhana.  Let's Connect: ► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1pU1qiKljk-yADyJ0pHzsA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Stories-of-India-Retold-105376315392520 ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storiesofindiaretold/ ► Stories of India Retold Podcast Website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com Listen to the Stories of India Retold Podcast ► Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stories-of-india-retold/id1612002041 ► Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XCH6ZI6H582CIDjY9u35w?si=cd245a77e5e94d3a ► Amazon music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/08a630be-6249-41f5-a984-7666f047fd3f/stories-of-india-retold ...or wherever you listen to #podcast Music: Beyond - Patrick Patrikios, Peony Morning - TrackTribe, Resources: The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010)

The Kurus were becoming an increasingly powerful and dominant Kingdom. But, they had a problem–a big one! The heirs of the Kuru dynasty died in quick succession, leaving no one to continue the line–the last in line to the Kuru throne, Vichitravirya, had died. The Kurus were in deep trouble, the lineage would end and with it, the dynasty. Bhishma and Satyavati would not let that happen. After much contemplation they decide to use the practice of Niyoga to beget sons on the wives of Vichitravirya. The Kuru dynasty finally had the sons that they sought, but the circumstances of their birth set the stage for complications that would arise later in the story of the Mahabharata. This is the story of the birth of Dhritarashtra, Pandu and Vidura.  #ancienthistory #bharat #infertility #mahabharata #mahabharat  Resources: Chattopadhyay, K. P. (1922). 25. Levirate and Kinship in India. Man, 22, 36–41. https://doi.org/10.2307/2839641 Mishra, V. B. (1977). THE PRACTICE OF NIYOGA IN ANCIENT LITERATURE OF INDIA : A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY. Annals of the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute, 58/59, 773–776. http://www.jstor.org/stable/41691747 Sahgal, S. (2011). GENDERED INQUIRY INTO NIYOGA: APPRAISING THE INSTITUTION FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF FEMALE ACTORS. Proceedings of the Indian History Congress, 72, 179–192. http://www.jstor.org/stable/44146710 The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010)   Let's Connect: ►YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1pU1qiKljk-yADyJ0pHzsA ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Stories-of-India-Retold-105376315392520 ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storiesofindiaretold/ ►Stories of India Retold Podcast Website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com Listen to the Stories of India Retold Podcast ► Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stories-of-india-retold/id1612002041 ►Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XCH6ZI6H582CIDjY9u35w?si=cd245a77e5e94d3a ►Amazon music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/08a630be-6249-41f5-a984-7666f047fd3f/stories-of-india-retold ...or wherever you listen to #podcast Music: Peony Morning - TrackTribe, Apocalyptic Echoes - Jimena Contreras, Dream Escape - The Tides, Gamela - E's Jammy Jams, Percolate - Loopop, The Six Realms - I Think I Can Help You

** Additional Notes: **At first, the book says Drona and Drupada become friends when the latter visited Bharadvaja with his father, later in the book Drona tells Bhishma that they became friends when they attended Agnivehsya’s school together. **Drona tells Bhishma that when they were young Drupada promised to share with him his wealth when he became king, this detail is not mentioned at first. Also, from Drona’s words to Drupada after defeating him, it seems like it was more about the insult and not really about the wealth. For the sake of simplicity these details were omitted in this retelling.   Drona was an elite warrior, the preceptor to the Kauravas and Pandavas and largely credited for training Arjuna to be the greatest warrior ever known. Drona was incredibly skilled at Dhanurveda–one could say it was in his blood as his father Bharadvaja and his son Ashwatthama were also renowned warriors; through his marriage to Kripi he was also related to Sharadvat and Kripa, who were also renowned warriors and teachers of the Kurus. What made Drona stand out was the fact that he was as driven as he was talented. He pursued any opportunity he got to further his career; he sought training from the great Parashurama himself. When his old friend King Drupada humiliates him, Drona makes it his life’s mission to exact revenge from Drupada and pursues it with the intense dedication and focus he does everything else.   #mahabharat #bharat #ancientindia #history #drona #ashwatthama #kripa Let's Connect: ►YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1pU1qiKljk-yADyJ0pHzsA ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Stories-of-India-Retold-105376315392520 ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storiesofindiaretold/ ►Stories of India Retold Podcast Website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com Listen to the Stories of India Retold Podcast ► Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stories-of-india-retold/id1612002041 ►Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XCH6ZI6H582CIDjY9u35w?si=cd245a77e5e94d3a ►Amazon music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/08a630be-6249-41f5-a984-7666f047fd3f/stories-of-india-retold ...or wherever you listen to #podcast Music: Peony Morning - TrackTribe; Yoga Style- Chris Haugen References: The Illustrated Mahabharata: The Definitive Guide to India’s Greatest Epic. (2017). Dorling Kindersley India. The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010)

King Yayati, the son of Nahusha, is the ancestor of the Kauravas and Pandavas. Yayati is best known for his obsession with youth and living longer and the fact he was cursed to lose his youth prematurely and live as an old man. But there is more to Yayati’s story. Yayati is involved in a love triangle between his wife, Devayani and her friend-turned-slave, Sharmishta–it was a complicated web he was in and Yayati was most definitely not ready to suffer the consequences of his actions. In today’s episode, we will explore Yayati’s story through the stories of his wife, Devayani: Devayani’s relationship with Kacha, Devayani’s marriage to Yayati, Devayani’s friendship with Sharmishta; also, Yayati’s curse to age prematurely, his decision to instate his youngest son, Puru, as his heir, Yayati’s entry into heaven after his death, his fall back to earth, his ascent to heaven one more time.  #mahabharat #podcast #bharat #ancientindia #history   #mahabharat #podcast #bharat #ancientindia #history Let's Connect: ►YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1pU1qiKljk-yADyJ0pHzsA ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Stories-of-India-Retold-105376315392520 ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storiesofindiaretold/ ►Stories of India Retold Podcast Website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com Listen to the Stories of India Retold Podcast ► Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stories-of-india-retold/id1612002041 ►Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XCH6ZI6H582CIDjY9u35w?si=cd245a77e5e94d3a ►Amazon music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/08a630be-6249-41f5-a984-7666f047fd3f/stories-of-india-retold ...or wherever you listen to #podcast Music: Peony Morning - TrackTribe; Yoga Style- Chris Haugen References: The Illustrated Mahabharata: The Definitive Guide to India’s Greatest Epic. (2017). Dorling Kindersley India. The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010) Witzel, Michael (1995). “Early Sanskritization. Origins and Development of the Kuru State”. Electronic Journal of Vedic Studies. 1-4: 1-26

Bhishma, the supreme commander of the Kaurava forces, was destined to be a great warrior and to always uphold Dharma, but he was also destined to always keep his father happy and to never have children. Learn why!   Music: Peony Morning - TrackTribe ►Stories of India Retold Podcast Website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com  Watch the Video Podcast: ► YouTube: https://youtu.be/o8HMnkno1LE   ►Spotify video: https://open.spotify.com/show/2yJBzZD1xlclGy8OufkQMs?_ga=2.88777307.1729303884.1714411700-715675952.1714411700  Listen to the Stories of India Retold Podcast  ► Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stories-of-india-retold/id1612002041 ►Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XCH6ZI6H582CIDjY9u35w?si=cd245a77e5e94d3a ►Amazon music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/08a630be-6249-41f5-a984-7666f047fd3f/stories-of-india-retold  and on your favorite #podcast App.  Let's Connect: ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Stories-of-India-Retold-105376315392520 ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storiesofindiaretold/  ►Threads: https://www.threads.net/@storiesofindiaretold  References: The Illustrated Mahabharata: The Definitive Guide to India’s Greatest Epic. (2017). Dorling Kindersley India. The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010) #bhishma #ganga #vasu

All about the Mahabharata and its author, Krishna Dwaipayana (Veda Vyasa), why he composed it, why Mahabharata is considered the greatest story ever told, who and what it is about, why it is considered sacred, why the stories found in this great epic is relevant to this day and more! Music: Peony Morning - TrackTribe ►Stories of India Retold Podcast Website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com  Watch the Video Podcast: ► YouTube: hhttps://youtu.be/ZCOFbiqtU3c  ►Spotify video: https://open.spotify.com/show/2yJBzZD1xlclGy8OufkQMs?_ga=2.88777307.1729303884.1714411700-715675952.1714411700  Listen to the Stories of India Retold Podcast  ► Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stories-of-india-retold/id1612002041 ►Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XCH6ZI6H582CIDjY9u35w?si=cd245a77e5e94d3a ►Amazon music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/08a630be-6249-41f5-a984-7666f047fd3f/stories-of-india-retold  and on your favorite #podcast App.  Let's Connect: ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Stories-of-India-Retold-105376315392520 ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storiesofindiaretold/  ►Threads: https://www.threads.net/@storiesofindiaretold    References: Jha, V. (2016). The Mytho-epic Re-imagination. Indian Literature, 60(6 (296)), 183–193. http://www.jstor.org/stable/44754735 Joshi, N. (2010). MAHĀBHĀRATA: HISTORY OR MYTH? Annals of the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute, 91, 47–60. http://www.jstor.org/stable/41692159 Mohanty, P. K. (2005). The “Mahabharata”: A Reading in Political Structuring. Indian Literature, 49(1 (225)), 146–151. http://www.jstor.org/stable/23346584 The Illustrated Mahabharata: The Definitive Guide to India’s Greatest Epic. (2017). Dorling Kindersley India. The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010) Tribal 'Mahabharat' has epical deviations: Ahmedabad News - Times of India Paul John / TNN / Sep 6 https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/tribal-mahabharat-has-epical-deviations/articleshow/168318.cms Witzel, Michael (1995). “Early Sanskritization. Origins and Development of the Kuru State”. Electronic Journal of Vedic Studies. 1-4: 1-26 Women, Gender & Power in Bheel Mahabharata 1 http://innertraditions.blogspot.com/2009/09/women-gender-power-in-bheel-mahabharata.html

Dear Listener, Welcome to the new and improved version of the Stories of India Retold Podcast. We will start from the beginning of the Mahabharata (yet again) but with better story telling and even a video element to it.  I hope you will listen to the new episodes.  Thank you so much for your continued support. Much Love, Nivi.  ►Stories of India Retold Podcast Website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com  Watch the Video Podcast: ► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1pU1qiKljk-yADyJ0pHzsA  Listen to the Stories of India Retold Podcast  ► Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stories-of-india-retold/id1612002041 ►Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XCH6ZI6H582CIDjY9u35w?si=cd245a77e5e94d3a ►Amazon music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/08a630be-6249-41f5-a984-7666f047fd3f/stories-of-india-retold  and on your favorite #podcast App.  Let's Connect: ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Stories-of-India-Retold-105376315392520 ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storiesofindiaretold/  ►Threads: https://www.threads.net/@storiesofindiaretold 

The heroes Arjuna and Krishna are involved in the burning of the Khandava forest–a dark episode in the Mahabharata known as the Khandava Daha(burning). Thousands died-particularly the people belonging to the Naga tribe; their leader Takshaka and his son survive and they would never forget or forgive this injustice. This story from the Khandava Daha Parva or episode, tells us the story of: -Arjuna and Krishna's deal with Agni. -The reasons for burning the Khandava tract -Arjuna and Krishna's fight against Indra. -The few who escaped the fire.  -New allies and enemies.   Podcast website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com  Instagram: @storiesofindiaretold Threads: https://www.threads.net/@storiesofindiaretold Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Stories-of-India-Retold-105376315392520   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stories-of-india-retold/id1612002041 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XCH6ZI6H582CIDjY9u35w?si=cd245a77e5e94d3a Amazon music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/08a630be-6249-41f5-a984-7666f047fd3f/stories-of-india-retold Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkLnBvZGJlYW4uY29tL3N0b3JpZXNvZmluZGlhcmV0b2xkL2ZlZWQueG1s iheart Radio https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-stories-of-india-retold-93474409/ Player fm: https://player.fm/series/3321447 Listen Notes: https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/stories-of-india-retold-storiesofindiaretold-r1EbLGtHzZM/embed/   References: Anand, S. (1990). KHĀṆḌAVADĀHA : A LESSON IN ECOLOGY. Annals of the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute, 71(1/4), 25–59. http://www.jstor.org/stable/41693516 Bhargava, P. L. (1982). A FRESH APPRAISAL OF THE HISTORICITY OF INDIAN EPICS. Annals of the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute, 63(1/4), 15–28. http://www.jstor.org/stable/41692964 The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010)   Music: Les-ly - Mini Vandals; Hopeless - Jimena Contreras      #ancientindia #india #indianhistory #bharat #mahabharata #ancientindianhistory #mahabharatainenglish #mythology  #stories #indianstories #indiatravel #newpodcastepisode #podcastrecommendation #arjuna #dharma #realmahabharata #pandavas #indianpodcast #krishna #khandavaforestburning #forestfire #nagas #takshaka

Arjuna’s actions lead to his exile from Khandavaprastha for 12 years. Arjuna spends the 12-years traveling, building allies and falling in love a few times. Come, follow Arjuna’s adventures! In order to avoid any chance of breeding resentment amongst themselves, the Pandava brothers decide to set rules regarding their marriage–the rule was simple–if, when a brother was in a room with Draupadi, another brother may not enter that room. Did any brother break that rule? What consequence would they face if they–wittingly or unwittingly–break the rule? Listen to the stories of: - Reasons for Arjuna’s exile from Khandavaprastha and brahmacharya. - Places and tirthas Arjuna visited - Arjuna’s adventures and valor - Arjuna and Ulupi - Arjuna and Chitrangada - Abduction of Soubhadra - Meeting Krishna in Dwaraka Blog: http://storiesofindiaretold.com Podcast website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com  Instagram: @storiesofindiaretold Threads: https://www.threads.net/@storiesofindiaretold Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Stories-of-India-Retold-105376315392520   Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stories-of-india-retold/id1612002041 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XCH6ZI6H582CIDjY9u35w?si=cd245a77e5e94d3a Amazon music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/08a630be-6249-41f5-a984-7666f047fd3f/stories-of-india-retold Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkLnBvZGJlYW4uY29tL3N0b3JpZXNvZmluZGlhcmV0b2xkL2ZlZWQueG1s iheart Radio https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-stories-of-india-retold-93474409/ Player fm: https://player.fm/series/3321447 Listen Notes: https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/stories-of-india-retold-storiesofindiaretold-r1EbLGtHzZM/embed/   Music: Beyond- Patrick Patrikios   #ancientindia #india #indianhistory #bharat #mahabharata #ancientindianhistory #mahabharatainenglish #lovestories #love #mythology #indianmarriage #stories #indianstories #indiatravel #newpodcastepisode #podcastrecommendation #indianromance #polygamy #arjuna #brahmacharya #exile #dharma #realmahabharata #pandavas #indianpodcast

Pandavas are finally returning home! Their very advantageous marriage to Draupadi proves to be a brilliant strategy as the Kauravas are taking notice and are calling them back home. This absolutely does not mean that all the Kauravas are glad to see them. Still, the pressure on the Kauravas to do the right thing is intense. The Pandavas are coming home, and there is nothing they can do about it. Listen to the stories of: -How things changed for the Pandavas after their marriage to Draupadi. -Kauravas react to news that Pandavas were alive -Pandavas return to Hastinapura -How things were settled between the cousins -The city of Khandavaprashta and why it is also called Indraprastha. Podcast website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com  Instagram: @storiesofindiaretold Threads: https://www.threads.net/@storiesofindiaretold Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Stories-of-India-Retold-105376315392520 Blog: http://storiesofindiaretold.com Music: At Depth- Lish Grooves Gupta, K. (1939). THE NĀGAS AND THE NAGA CULT IN ANCIENT INDIAN HISTORY. Proceedings of the Indian History Congress, 3, 214–229. http://www.jstor.org/stable/44252377   MATE, M. S. (2012). RIDDLE OF THE “NAGAS.” Bulletin of the Deccan College Post-Graduate and Research Institute, 72/73, 331–335. http://www.jstor.org/stable/43610709   The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010)   #mythology #indianmyth #indianmythology #history #indianhistory #draupadi #swayamvara #polyandry #newpodcastalert #podcast #culture #indianculture #desiweddings #indianweddings #indianmarriage #polygamy #feminism #podcastrecommendation #mahabharata #mahabharat #indianhistory  

How acceptable was a marriage like that of Draupadi and Pandavas in their time? How did society evolve with respect to attitudes about different types of relationships and marriages? Dig deeper into the stories of why Draupadi was destined to have five husbands and look into the concept of polyandry and its practice in ancient India. Polygamy: marriage in which a spouse of either sex may have more than one mate at the same time Polygyny: the state or practice of having more than one wife or female mate at a time Polyandry: the state or practice of having more than one husband or male mate at one time Fraternal Polyandry: polyandry in which several brothers share one wife Source: Merriam-Webster   Listen to: -attitudes regarding relationship and marriages in vedic society and its evolution -stories supporting or justifying the decision for Draupadi’s marriage to five brothers   Blog: http://storiesofindiaretold.com Podcast website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com  Instagram: @storiesofindiaretold Threads: https://www.threads.net/@storiesofindiaretold Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Stories-of-India-Retold-105376315392520   References:   Darshini, P. (2014). FEMINISM A HISTORICAL INTERFACE BETWEEN LITERATURE AND HISTORY DURING GUPTA PERIOD. Proceedings of the Indian History Congress, 75, 107–115. http://www.jstor.org/stable/44158368     Sahgal, S. (2005). Indian History Congress Prize Essay: POLYANDRY WITHIN PATRIARCHY; REITERATION OF MALE HEGEMONY IN THE SOCIO-SEXUAL CONTEXTS OF EARLY INDIA. Proceedings of the Indian History Congress, 66, 199–214. http://www.jstor.org/stable/44145838     The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010)   #mythology #indianmyth #indianmythology #history #indianhistory #draupadi #swayamvara #polyandry #newpodcastalert #podcast #culture #indianculture #desiweddings #indianweddings #indianmarriage #polygamy #feminism #podcastrecommendation #mahabharata #mahabharat #indianhistory    

Draupadi was a catch. She was the princess of Panchala, a kingdom which was both wealthy and influential. The young Pandavas needed a powerful ally and Panchala fit the bill perfectly. When they heard that Drupada had arranged for a swayamvara for his daughter Draupadi, the Pandavas joined numerous other kings and princes to try and win her hand. Things get a little complicated because they attended the swayamvara disguised as brahmanas.    Music: Venkatesananda-Jesse Gallagher; At Depth-Lish Grooves; Yoga Style-Chris Haugen Blog: http://storiesofindiaretold.com Podcast website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com  Instagram: @storiesofindiaretold Resources: Sahgal, S. (2005). Indian History Congress Prize Essay: POLYANDRY WITHIN PATRIARCHY; REITERATION OF MALE HEGEMONY IN THE SOCIO-SEXUAL CONTEXTS OF EARLY INDIA. Proceedings of the Indian History Congress, 66, 199–214. http://www.jstor.org/stable/44145838 The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010)   #mythology #indianmyth #indianmythology #history #indianhistory #draupadi #swayamvara #polyandry 

The #Kauravas and #Pandavas come from line of rulers belonging to illustrious Chandravamsha (Chandra-Moon)or the #Lunar Dynasty. The #Bharata, #Puru, #Kuru and #Yadu #clans came from this #legendary #Kshatriya (warrior class) house. They ruled the northern Indian #subcontinent in the #Vedic age (late Bronze-early Iron Age) and left an indelible mark on the religious, social and cultural identity of present-day India and beyond. Listen to the #podcast: The founders of the different clans which emerged from the #dynasty The #love #stories and marriages of some of the more famous rulers of the Chandravamsha The stories of the birth of the rulers, how and why they succeeded in leading their clan. Issues of #infertility, miscarriage–how it affected the succession line; how it was handled. Music: At Depth-Lish Grooves Blog: http://storiesofindiaretold.com Podcast website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com  Instagram: @storiesofindiaretold   References: Mishra, V. B. (1977). THE PRACTICE OF NIYOGA IN ANCIENT LITERATURE OF INDIA : A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY. Annals of the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute, 58/59, 773–776. http://www.jstor.org/stable/41691747 Sahgal, S. (2011). GENDERED INQUIRY INTO NIYOGA: APPRAISING THE INSTITUTION FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF FEMALE ACTORS. Proceedings of the Indian History Congress, 72, 179–192. http://www.jstor.org/stable/44146710 The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010) The Illustrated Mahabharata: The Definitive Guide to India’s Greatest Epic. (2017). Dorling Kindersley India. Witzel, Michael (1995). “Early Sanskritization. Origins and Development of the Kuru State”. Electronic Journal of Vedic Studies. 1-4: 1-26 #mythology #indianmyth #indianmythology #history #indianhistory #chandravamsha

On their way to #Panchala, the #Pandavas met with the #Gandharva King, #Angaaraparna. Things were tense between them initially; they did not start out as friends. After a #fight, in which #Arjuna easily defeated Angaaraparna, the #demigod Gandharva was immensely impressed with Arjuna’s talents and character, and they struck up a mutually beneficial #friendship.   Listen to the story of: -The reasons the Pandavas decided to travel to Panchala -Pandavas’ first meeting with Angaaraparna -The fight between Angaaraparna and Arjuna -The deal between Angaaraparna and Arjuna -Arjuna obtains the #knowledge of #Chakshushi from Angaaraparna -The reasons the Pandavas decided to avail the services of a #priest.   Music: Venkatesananda-Jesse Gallagher; At Depth-Lish Grooves Blog: http://storiesofindiaretold.com Podcast website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com  Instagram: @storiesofindiaretold References: The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010) #mahabharata #mahabharat #indianepic #epic #ancientindia #india

Drupada and Drona’s rivalry is legendary. #Drupada wanted revenge for the humiliating defeat handed down to him by his former friend, #Drona. Because he had no suitable heir, Drupada arranged for a #sacrifice which would provide him with an heir who would have the power to defeat Drona. The sacrifice produced not one, but two children–a son named #Dhrishtadyumna, and a daughter named #Krishnaa. They were both destined to help Drupada obtain his revenge against Drona. Listen to the story of: Drupada’s reasons to want revenge against Drona The sacrifice which would produce Drupada’s heir Yaja and Upayaja How Dhrishtadyumna and #Draupadi came from the sacrificial fire Draupadi’s role in the story of the #Mahabharata. Email your questions to: storiesofindiaretold@gmail.com Blog: http://storiesofindiaretold.com Podcast website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com  Instagram: @storiesofindiaretold Music: Jesse Gallagher Image: See page for author, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons References: The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010)  #newpodcast #newpodcastalert #ancientindia #indianmythology#indian #epic #podcastrecommendations

Rakshasa Baka was a bully who terrorized the people of Ekachakra. The people of #Ekachakra were ruled by an incompetent King who did nothing to keep them safe. #Baka volunteered to provide the people with protection from invaders and enemies; however, in exchange he demanded that the people of Ekachakra take turns to provide him with payment, which, unfortunately included eating the person who delivered it to him. The #Pandavas made Ekachakra their temporary home while in hiding. When the truth about Baka became known to them, they decided that it was their duty to protect innocent people and #Bhima was tasked with slaying the rakshasa Baka.   Listen to the story of:   Pandavas’ journey to Ekachakra. Baka’s demands in exchange for protection for the people of Ekachakra The conundrum of the brahmana who hosted the Pandavas Kunti’s offer to help the kind brahmana and his family The slaying of Baka by Bhima   #mahabharata #ancientindia #heroes #podcastrecommendation #newpodcastalert   Email your questions to: storiesofindiaretold@gmail.com Blog: http://storiesofindiaretold.com Podcast website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com  Instagram: @storiesofindiaretold

The Rakshasa (female:Rakshasi) is a race of beings who were big and fierce looking. They were powerful warriors and were mostly portrayed as the bad guys in ancient Indian scriptures. #Hidimba was one of the better-known Rakshasas in #Indian #mythology–an entire parva is named after the story of his death in the #Mahabharata. After killing Hidimba, the #Pandavas forged an alliance with the #Rakshasas through Bhima’s marriage with Hidimba’s sister. #Bhima and Hidimba had a son named #Gatodkacha, who was extremely loyal to the Pandavas and played an important role in the Pandavas’ victory in the Kurukshetra war.   Listen to the story of: -The brother (Rakshasa) and sister (Rakshasi) named Hidimba. -Rakshasi Hidimba’s wish to protect Bhima from her brother. -Bhima’s fight with Hidimba and the latter’s subsequent death. -Bhima’s marriage to Hidimba and the birth of their son Gatotkacha.   Email your questions to: storiesofindiaretold@gmail.com Blog: http://storiesofindiaretold.com Podcast website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com  Instagram: @storiesofindiaretold   #podcastrecommendation #newpodcastalert #india #indianmythology References: The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010) Patil, S. (1976). Myth and Reality of Ramayana and Mahabharata. Social Scientist, 4(8), 68–72. https://doi.org/10.2307/3516381

A shorter version of Shakuntala’s story from the #Mahabharata, retold from a slightly different lens. Shakuntala was the wife of Duhshanta–the founder of the Pourava dynasty, and the mother of the great Emperor #Bharata, who was the founder of the Kuru lineage and ancestor of the #Kauravas and #Pandavas. #Shakuntala was a smart, intelligent and a feisty young woman, and she fell in love with King #Duhshanta. Their love story is unique and has inspired many works of Indian literature.   Listen to the story of: Shakuntala and Duhshanta’s meeting Their "love" marriage Duhshanta’s promise to Shakuntala Shakuntala’s confrontation with Duhshanta in his court Duhshanta’s eventual acceptance of his wife and son Shakuntala’s son named Bharata Email your questions to: storiesofindiaretold@gmail.com Blog: http://storiesofindiaretold.com Podcast website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com  Instagram: @storiesofindiaretold #shakuntalam #shaakuntalam #dushyantha #indianmythology #podcastrecommendation #lovemarriage References: The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010)

Ekalavya, a Nishada prince, was one of the best archers who lived in the time of the Pandavas. He wanted to be the best archer and he wanted to be trained by the best teacher–Drona. Drona, however, refused to teach him because Ekalavya was a Nishada. But a determined Ekalaya wasn’t ready to give up. Ekalavya’s actions put to test Drona’s relationship with his most favored student Arjuna. Arjuna did not accept a threat to his position as the best archer around!   Listen to the story of: Why Drona refused to accept Ekalavya as his student. Why Arjuna felt threatened by Ekalavya. How Ekalavya lost his thumb. Later life of Ekalavya. Krishna’s role in Ekalavya’s death.   Email your questions to: storiesofindiaretold@gmail.com Blog: http://storiesofindiaretold.com Podcast website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com  Instagram: @storiesofindiaretold   References: The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010)   The Bhagavata Purana; translated by G. V. Tagare. (1950). Motilal Banarsidass Publishers pvt. Ltd.

The rivalry between the Pandavas and Kauravas is legendary. The #Kauravas, especially #Duryodhana, were not only motivated by greed, but they also believed that they were being discriminated against because of Dhritarastra's blindness. They believed the kingdom rightfully belonged to them and were ready to do whatever it took–even murder their relatives, the Pandavas. The burning of the lac house–a well-known story from the #Mahabharata–is one of the many attempts of the Kauravas to kill the Pandavas and is the beginning of the story of the strife and struggles between the two sets of cousins.   Email your questions to: storiesofindiaretold@gmail.com Blog: http://storiesofindiaretold.com Podcast website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com  Instagram: @storiesofindiaretold #lachouse #burningofthelachouse #podcastrecommendation #ancientindia #kurukshetra  References: The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010)