This is an introduction to the Mahabharata, one of the two major epics of ancient India. The text provides a summary of the epic's story, which centers around the conflict between the Pandavas and the Kauravas, two branches of the Kuru clan vying for the throne of Hastinapura. The introduction outlines the key characters, their relationships, and the events leading up to the Kurukshetra War. The source also highlights the philosophical themes explored in the Mahabharata, including duty, righteousness, love, and human nature. Finally, the text introduces the Bhagavad-Gita, a philosophical treatise embedded within the Mahabharata, which offers teachings on morality and righteousness.