Question

(b) Analyse the role of scholars in the task of preparing the critical edition of the Mahabharata.

Hint:

Mention key contributions of institutions or individuals when discussing scholarly efforts.

Answer 1

Scholars played a crucial role in preparing the critical edition of the Mahabharata, led by V.S. Sukthankar and the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute. They examined numerous manuscripts from across India, identifying interpolations and differences. The critical edition aimed to reconstruct the original text by compiling the most authentic verses, preserving the essence of this epic.