The Mahabharata, one of the greatest epics of ancient India, is a text of immense cultural and historical significance. Recent scholarly discussions have brought to light evidence suggesting that the epic, with its voluminous content, dates back to as early as 532 CE. This article delves into the historical and textual evidence supporting the antiquity of the Mahabharata, specifically focusing on its composition and the number of shlokas it contained during that period.

Evidence from Historical Texts

A significant reference is found in the works of scholars who have analyzed the Mahabharata's structure and content over the centuries. Notably, the landgrant of A.D. 532/33, which characterizes the Mahabharata as a compilation containing 100,000 shlokas (slokasahasrani satamiti), is a crucial piece of evidence. This indicates that even in the 6th century CE, the Mahabharata was recognized for its extensive composition .

Textual Analysis and Scholarly Insights

The article from the Journal of the American Oriental Society provides a detailed examination of the Mahabharata's parvan list, highlighting the complexity and the evolution of its content. The discussion includes the following points:

1. Origination of Parvan List: At the time of the origination of the parvan list, certain parvans (books or sections) were considered major, while others were supplementary. The confusion around the exact size and subjects of these parvans indicates an ongoing process of textual consolidation .

2. Doctrinal Passages: The incorporation of the śāntiparvan and khilas into the epic suggests an early acceptance of these sections as part of the Mahabharata. The text also mentions the anuśāsanaparvan, another significant parvan, indicating its established role within the epic's narrative structure .

3. Interpolation and Later Additions: Scholars such as Winternitz and Bühler have identified specific sections of the Mahabharata, such as Book XII and the virāṭaparvan, as later interpolations. These sections, although seen as later additions, bear the mark of earlier narratives and traditions, reflecting the epic's dynamic evolution .

4. Strategic Narratives: The epic's strategic elements, particularly in the virāṭaparvan, underscore its intricate storytelling. The manipulation of parvan names and the inclusion of major and minor parvans reflect the epic's complexity and the efforts to maintain narrative coherence over centuries .

Implications of the Evidence

The historical and textual evidence suggests that the Mahabharata, in its grand scale of 100,000 shlokas, was already established by the 6th century CE. This challenges earlier assumptions about the epic's composition and highlights its deep-rooted presence in Indian literary and cultural traditions. The references to specific parvans and the scholarly interpretations underscore the meticulous efforts to preserve and expand the epic, ensuring its transmission through generations.

Conclusion

The Mahabharata's antiquity, supported by references to its extensive composition as early as 532 CE, underscores the epic's enduring legacy. The scholarly insights and historical references provide a comprehensive understanding of the Mahabharata's evolution, reflecting its significance in ancient Indian literature. This evidence not only affirms the epic's historical depth but also celebrates its monumental role in shaping the cultural and literary heritage of India.

References

1. Journal of the American Oriental Society, Vol. 89, No. 2 (1969), pp. 332-337.