The Mahabharata, Volume 8
Translated by Bibek Debroy

Volume 8 is the final installment of Bibek Debroy's comprehensive English translation of The Mahabharata, completing this ancient epic with the Harivamsa Parva, also known as the Khilabharata. The Harivamsa serves as an appendix or supplement to the main narrative, expanding on the story with a focus on the genealogy and tales of the Vrishni and Yadava dynasties, particularly celebrating the life and deeds of Krishna.

Key Sections of Volume 8:

• Harivamsa Parva (The Book of the Genealogy of Hari): This parva is dedicated to recounting the origins, miracles, and adventures of Krishna, an avatar of the god Vishnu and a central figure in the Mahabharata. It elaborates on his divine nature, his early life among the cowherds of Vrindavana, his battles against demons, and his role as a protector of dharma.

  • Vishnu Parva: This sub-book explores Krishna's divine lineage, his miraculous birth, and his early years. Key events include his triumphs over Kansa and other demonic forces that threatened the Yadava clan, highlighting his role as a savior.

  • Bhavishya Parva: This section contains prophecies and predictions about future events, often linking Krishna's actions to future cycles of creation and destruction in Hindu cosmology, reinforcing his timeless influence.

Key Themes and Features:

• Krishna’s Divine Role and Legacy: Krishna is depicted both as a divine figure and a compassionate leader, beloved by his people and integral to maintaining cosmic balance. His exploits and teachings underscore the principles of righteousness (dharma) and the transcendence of the soul.

• Transition to the Kali Yuga: The narrative hints at the impending age of Kali Yuga—a time of moral decline—which follows Krishna's departure from the mortal world. This transition signifies a change in the cosmic order and the inevitable decline of virtue.

• Connection to the Bhagavata Tradition: The stories in the Harivamsa are significant in the context of Krishna worship and provide a bridge to the Bhagavata Purana, another sacred text that elaborates on Krishna's life.

Significance of Volume 8:

Volume 8’s focus on Krishna offers readers a more intimate look at the life of one of Hinduism’s most revered deities, presenting his role in guiding humanity towards righteousness and supporting the Mahabharata’s overarching message of dharma. This concluding volume also serves as a spiritual capstone, providing a sense of closure by celebrating Krishna’s legacy and his contributions to the preservation of cosmic order.

With Volume 8, Bibek Debroy's translation brings readers the complete journey through the Mahabharata’s profound exploration of life, ethics, and spirituality, leaving a lasting impact through Krishna's divine stories and teachings.