Mahabharata Stories (FROM THE HOUSE OF HARPER Book 1)
#1 of 1 in From The House Of Harper Series
on Goodreads (15)
What’s inside...
Selected stories for children from the Mahabharata ranging from how the Mahabharata was written to the Mritasanjivani story, the birth of Devavrata, the palace of Lac, Draupadi's Swayamvara, the passing of Bhishma and many other equally enthralling stories from one of the greatest epics of all time. This is the second book in the recently launched From the House of Harper series which will include collections of classic Indian tales. The first book in the series was a collection of the Panchatantra stories, A Basketful of Animal Tales.
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the characters to act the way they did in the story?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in today's world?
Which character did you find most interesting, and why?
What lessons can we learn from the choices that the characters made?
How do you think teamwork played a role in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions to encourage your child to think critically about the story and its characters.
Relate the moral lessons from the story to everyday life situations your child might encounter, to make the discussion more relevant.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings for the story based on different character choices or settings.
Discuss the moral dilemmas presented in the book and ask your child how they would have acted in a similar situation.
Praise your child’s responses to foster a positive and encouraging environment for discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of righteousness
Explanation: In the Mahabharata, characters such as Yudhishthira embody righteousness, showcasing the moral dilemmas and ultimate choices towards dharma (duty/righteousness).
Real-World Application: Children learn to evaluate their actions and choose what is morally right, fostering ethical decision-making from a young age.
Example Lesson: The consequences of actions (Karma)
Explanation: The epic highlights how every action has a consequence, as seen through the lives of characters like Karna and Duryodhana.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be mindful of their actions and encourages them to act kindly and responsibly, understanding that their actions will shape their future.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The Pandavas' success in the Kurukshetra war, often attributed to their unity and teamwork, emphasizes collaborating effectively to achieve common goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working cooperatively in group settings like school projects or team sports, enhancing their social and cooperative skills.
Example Lesson: Importance of strategic thinking
Explanation: Krishna's role as a strategist in several key moments teaches the value of intellect and strategy over mere brute strength.
Real-World Application: This empowers children to use critical thinking and problem-solving skills in diverse situations, from academic challenges to personal conflicts.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The trials and tribulations faced by the Pandavas, including their exile, illustrate the strength of character and the resilience required to overcome challenges.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to remain steadfast and resilient despite difficulties, fostering a growth mindset and perseverance.