GNN, Kathmandu: Nepal’s former Vice President Parmanand Jha has formally unveiled Maithili Gadhya Archanakrit Sampurna Mahabharat, the first complete prose rendition of the Mahabharata in the Maithili language in Nepal. The launch ceremony was held under the chairpersonship of author Archana Jha, with the Shree Manav Sewa Foundation organising the event and the Madhesi Professors Association and Hindu Samrat Nepal extending their support.

Author, journalist and literary figure Archana Jha undertook extensive research and study to produce the monumental work after recognising the lack of a complete and accessible Maithili version of the Mahabharata in Nepal. She said the book was the result of years of reading, research, reflection and dedication, adding that it was not a direct, word-for-word translation of any existing book but an independently written work presented in simple, accessible and reader-friendly Maithili prose.

The 613-page volume contains all 18 Parvas (books) of the Mahabharata and comprises approximately 121,000 words. Published by Binay Kumar Jha and edited by Prem Narayan Jha, the book incorporates simple Maithili language, traditional Maithili folk songs and Mithila paintings to enhance its literary and cultural appeal. Archana said the work was intended not merely as a literary publication but as a comprehensive reflection of language, religion, culture, civilisation, politics, justice, diplomacy, morality and human values.

The author said the primary objective of the book was to enable Maithili-speaking readers to study, understand and reflect on the Mahabharata in their mother tongue, without depending on translations or other languages. She described the work as a contribution to the Sanatan community, the nation and all Maithili language enthusiasts, expressing hope that it would reach readers across the Mithila region and beyond. The book also seeks to encourage younger and future generations to develop a deeper understanding of their language, religious traditions, history, cultural heritage and philosophy of life.

The book explores the significance of religion and duty, governance and statecraft, justice, ethics, family values, and the enduring conflict between truth and falsehood. Special emphasis has been placed on the spiritual, moral and philosophical teachings of Lord Krishna to Arjuna, as embodied in the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita. It also examines the roles of Sage Ved Vyasa and Lord Krishna within the epic narrative and their contributions to shaping human values, social conduct and philosophical thought.

Another distinctive feature of the book is its detailed portrayal of the lives and contributions of women in the Mahabharata. Through characters such as Ganga, Satyavati, Kunti, Gandhari and Draupadi, the author explores women’s struggles, sacrifices, courage, resilience, decisions and influence on the course of events. The work also incorporates stories of deities, Yakshas, sages and hermits, alongside the Pandavas’ struggles, exile, adherence to righteousness, war, victory, death and spiritual journey towards heaven. In contrast, the Kauravas’ desire for power, political intrigue, arrogance and unrighteous conduct are presented as lessons on the consequences of ambition and moral failure.

Archana said the encouragement she received from readers and well-wishers following the publication of her earlier work, Archanakrit Ramayan, in Maithili inspired her to undertake the Mahabharata project. She has received the ‘Rastriya Dharohar Nariratna–2082’ honour from ministers for her contributions to literature, journalism, culture and social service, as well as the title ‘Sita’. Describing the new publication as a significant achievement in her literary journey, she expressed confidence that the complete Mahabharata in Maithili prose would strengthen the language, enrich Maithili literature and elevate Mithila’s cultural heritage.