A master warrior. A devoted student. A mission fueled by revenge. We dive into the riveting tale of Drona and Arjuna: a legendary teacher-student duo whose relationship shaped the destiny of empires. This isn’t your average guru-disciple story. It’s a story about the complex bond between Drona and Arjuna—how ambition, loyalty, and betrayal shaped one of Indian mythology’s most powerful relationships; this is a tale of power, privilege, and the price of greatness. What made Arjuna Drona’s favorite and what did it cost others to protect that title? Why did Drona, a master of weapons, demand the thumb of a boy (Ekalavya) who called him guru? And how does an ancient rivalry between two childhood friends (Drupada) ignite a war that changes history? This episode draws striking parallels between ancient India's pursuit of excellence as warriors and today’s modern-day educational rat race—from elite prep schools to college scandals—where access, privilege, and performance determine your place in the world. Tune in for a story that’s equal parts myth, ambition, and human emotion. Subscribe now so you don’t miss the next chapter in the epic saga of India’s greatest legends. #IndianMythology #Mahabharata #DronaAndArjuna #EpicStories #Arjun #StoriesOfIndia #AncientIndia #PodcastIndia #MythologyPodcast #EducationSystem #Gurukul #DharmaAndRevenge Reference: The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010) Let's Connect: ►YouTube: hhttps://youtu.be/VMBjcYG_uWY ►Stories of India Retold Podcast Blog: What Drona & Arjuna’s Story Teaches Us About Success, Destiny https://storiesofindiaretold.com/stories-from-mahabharata/what-drona-arjunas-story-teaches-us-about-education-obsession/ ►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 Images: #Wikimedia Commons #Canva

In this episode, we dive into the powerful and timeless story of Shakuntala and Duhshanta (Dushyanta) as told in the Mahabharata. Shakuntala’s journey highlights themes of women’s rights, autonomy, and justice. Far more than a love story, Shakuntala is a strong, bold young woman, who stands up for herself and her son in the face of betrayal and abandonment. Tune in as we unravel the lessons from Shakuntala’s courage and resilience through this young woman’s story from the ancient times. Links: ►Blog post - See Why Shakuntala Says A Wife Must be Cherished  https://storiesofindiaretold.com/miscelleneous/see-why-shakuntala-says-a-wife-must-be-cherished/  ►BORI Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcLzr93ByFE&t=263s ►Stories of India Retold Podcast Website: https://storiesofindiaretold.podbean.com #bharat #mythology #ancientindia #story #podcast References:  Dalal, Roshen (2010). “The Religions of India: A Concise Guide to Nine Major Faiths.” Penguin Books India.  Ryder, A. (2014). Shakuntala. Createspace Independent Publishing Platform. Sternbach, L. (1941).  A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY OF THE FORMS OF MARRIAGE IN ANCIENT INDIA (A Résumé). Annals of the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute, 22(3/4), 202–219. http://www.jstor.org/stable/43975949  The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010) Images: #Wikimedia Commons #Canva

The Suras (Gods/good) and Asuras (Anti-god/evil) must work together to obtain the precious nectar of immortality, Amrita; in a process called Samudra Manthana or Churning of the Ocean. Along the way, they face many obstacles and even a deadly poison that threatens to destroy the world. From the appearance of divine treasures to Vishnu's clever tricks, this episode explores the intense struggle, wisdom, and lessons learned through compassion, perseverance, unity, and divine intervention. #purana #bharat #samudramanthan #khumbhmela #churningoftheocean   The Bhagavata Purana 2, translated by Bibek Debroy.

The heroic Pandava brothers face a deadly plot at the hands of their treacherous cousins, the Kauravas. Through their wisdom and unity, they outwit their enemies and make a daring escape. It all begins with the construction of a sinister house built of lac (a flammable resin) that was both their prison and their home. With a little help from their wise uncle Vidura and a talented Khanaka/miner (and inspiration from the cunning Jackal!) the Pandavas paved a way for their safety and escape. This is a tale of wisdom and survival from the great epic, the Mahabharata. The Lac house is sometimes also referred to as Wax house or Lakshagriha. Vidura's Riddle: "He who knows and understands that there are sharp weapons capable of cutting the body though not made of steel, can never be injured by foes. He lives who protects himself by the knowledge that neither the consumer of straw and wood nor the drier of the dew burns the inmates of a hole in the deep woods. The blind man, who cannot see his way, has no knowledge of direction. Remembering this, be upon your guard. The man who takes a weapon not made of steel given him by his foes, can escape from fire by making his abode like unto that of a jackal, which has many outlets. By wandering a man may acquire the knowledge of ways, and by the stars he can ascertain the direction, and he that keeps his five (senses) under control can never be oppressed by his enemies." Riddle Source:   The Mahabharata, Volume I., Book 1-3 by Kisari Mohan Ganguli. (n.d.). Www.gutenberg.org. https://www.gutenberg.org/files/15474/15474-h/15474-h.htm Resources:   The Mahabharata 1: Complete and Unabridged; translated by Bibek Debroy. (2015). Penguin Random House India. (Original work published 2010) Wikipedia Contributors. (2024, August 18). Lac (resin).   Wikipedia; Wikimedia Foundation. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lac_(resin) ►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  #bharat #mahabharat #indian #mythology #ancient #story

In this episode, we dive into a heartwarming and thought-provoking tale from the Naga folklore. A young woman, feeling lost and alone, prays to Nagoba, the serpent god, to take her into his family. Her wish is granted, but an unfortunate accident involving the serpent queen's newborns sets off a chain of events that tests the power of forgiveness. Join in as we explore themes of divine intervention, redemption, and the delicate balance between human intentions and the natural world. This story, tied to the Naga Panchami festival, reminds us of the importance of compassion, healing and our interconnectedness with all living beings. Tune in for a tale filled with magic, wisdom, and the timeless message of forgiveness. This story is based on 'Nagoba,' written by Aruna Bhargava from the book "Nagoba and Other Stories." This book is a collection of folk tales from the state of Maharashtra, India. #NagaPanchami #IndianFolkTales #Forgiveness #SerpentGod #Mythology #FamilyStories #DivineIntervention #SnakeWorship #CulturalTales #Naga 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 Images: #Wikimedia Commons #Canva #canvaai Music: Venkatesananda - Jesse Gallagher, At Depth - Lish Grooves, Beyond - Patrick Patrikios, Hopeless - Jimena Contreras

🌟 Listen to the Fascinating Birth Story of the Pandavas! 🌟 Ever wondered how the legendary heroes of the Mahabharata, the Pandavas, came into being? It starts with an accidental death which led to a fateful curse that changed everything for King Pandu. Pandu turns to Kunti to help him obtain the sons he desperately wants. With Kunti’s boon, the Pandavas are born, each embodying unique qualities of the deities they were born from. This tale is a mix of emotion, mythology, and destiny that you won’t want to miss! #Mahabharata #Pandavas #Mythology #EpicTales 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 Resources: 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) Images: #Wikimedia Commons #Canva #canvaai Music: Gamela - E's Jammy Jams, Percolate - Loopop, The Six Realms - I Think I Can Help You 

Punyakoti's story or Govina Haadu (Song of A Cow) is an extremely popular Kannada folksong. It is also part of Telugu folklore. Punyakoti finds herself in the clutches of a famished tiger, Arbhuta. Realizing that escape is impossible, Punyakoti pleads with Arbhuta for one final chance to see her son before becoming the tiger's meal. Although hesitant at first, Arbhuta eventually consents to grant Punyakoti's final wish. True to her word, Punyakoti returns to Arbhuta. The depth of Punyakoti's dedication to truth and to doing the right thing deeply moves Arbhuta, ultimately saving Punyakoti's life. Find the video for the story 👉🏽 https://youtu.be/ON_12DHaEbk  This version of the story is based on the lyrics of Govina Haadu by B. M. Srikantaiah. Find the link for resource used👇🏽 References: Ankita. (2014b, March 25). Dharani mandala madhyadolage-Punyakoti Original Lyrics by B M Sri ! https://madhurageete.blogspot.com/2014/03/dharani-mandala-madhyadolage-punyakoti.html #punyakoti #story #kannada #stories #indianstory #telugu #telugufolk Music: Peony Morning - TrackTribe, Dream Escape - The Tides, The Six Realms - I Think I Can Help You, Venkatesananda - Jesse Gallagher, At Depth - Lish Grooves, Hopeless - Jimena Contreras

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