How Vyasa and Ganesha Compiled the Mahabharata

The Mahabharata is one of Sanskrit's two great epics, the other being Valmiki's Ramayana. It describes the war between the Pandavas and Kauravas during the Dvapara era when Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu, lived. According to legend, it was composed by Krishna Dwaipayana (Maharshi Vedavyasa), born on a small island in the Yamuna river. The name "Krishna" means "dark," and "Dwaipayana" means "born on an island." Krishna Dwaipayana is also supposed to have compiled and edited the four Vedas, earning him the title "Vedavyasa."

Vedavyasa (or Vyasa) is a central character in the story. He is the son of Sage Parashara and Satyavati, who later became the wife of Kuru king Shantanu. After the Mahabharata war, Vyasa witnessed the unfortunate end of the Kuru clan and felt that their story should be documented. However, he couldn't think of anyone up to the task. So, he prayed to Lord Brahma. When Brahma appeared before Vyasa, the latter presented his problem and asked for advice. Understanding the seriousness of Vyasa's problem, Brahma said, "I am confident that only an accomplished writer can perform this task. No human can do it. In my opinion, only Lord Ganesha can help you with this." Brahma disappeared after saying this.

Vyasa considered Brahma's advice as a divine command and called upon Lord Ganesha. When Ganesha appeared before Vyas, the latter expressed his wishes, saying, "Oh Lord, please accept your devotee's request and agree to write down my epic poem. Only with your kindness will this great task for the good of humankind be completed." Ganesha, known for removing difficulties from his devotees' paths, mused upon Vyasa's request momentarily and said, "Oh Maharshi, I will certainly fulfill your desire by performing this sacred task; however, my pen must not stop for even a second once you begin dictating. If you want me to write down your epic, you must agree to this condition." Vyasa, stunned momentarily, replied, "I accept your stipulation, my Lord, but you also must agree to a condition of mine. You may not write a single word without properly understanding the meaning of the whole sentence." Ganesha agreed, and the Mahabharata began to be penned down.