The Mahabharata is an ancient Indian epic that narrates the story of a great war between two families, the Pandavas and the Kauravas. It explores themes of duty, righteousness, and the complexities of human nature. The text is not only a tale of conflict but also includes philosophical discussions, moral dilemmas, and teachings, making it a significant cultural and spiritual work. The epic is attributed to the sage Vyasa and is one of the longest literary works in the world. It contains various sub-stories, including the famous Bhagavad Gita, which is a dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna on the battlefield, addressing the nature of life and duty.