Last Updated:November 05, 2026, 09:41 IST

The proposed MA programme aims to introduce students to the epic beyond its familiar narrative of the conflict between the Pandavas and Kauravas.

The Mahabharata Studies programme will include a 20-credit Capstone Project. (Representative/File Photo)

The Central Sanskrit University (CSU), New Delhi, has announced a two-year postgraduate programme in Mahabharata Studies in academic collaboration with INDICA. The programme will carry 90 credits and focus on the systematic and interdisciplinary study of the Mahabharata.

The proposed MA programme aims to introduce students to the epic beyond its familiar narrative of the conflict between the Pandavas and Kauravas. It will cover the text’s literary, philosophical, social and cultural dimensions, along with its influence on Indian civilisation.

According to the university’s announcement, the programme will combine the study of original Sanskrit texts, Indian philosophical traditions, academic research and engagement with living cultural practices.

The programme will cover four broad areas: Text, Thought, Society and Civilisation.

1. Text: Students will study the Mahabharata as Itihasa and Kavya, along with its Sanskrit sources, narrative structures, dialogues and literary traditions. The course will also include the study of original Sanskrit passages, translations and commentaries.

2. Thought: This section will introduce students to philosophical concepts such as Dharma, the four Purusharthas, the Bhagavad Gita, Mokshadharma and Atman. It will also examine questions related to ethics, human choices and individual responsibility.

3. Society: Students will explore themes such as Rajadharma, governance, statecraft, diplomacy, social institutions, family relationships, economic life and environmental concerns.

4. Civilisation: This area will focus on the Mahabharata’s influence on Indian civilisation, including sacred geography, cultural memory, regional traditions, performances and different retellings of the epic.

Apart from classroom learning, the MA programme will include research and field-based learning. The university has outlined three interconnected components: Text, Research and Immersion. Students will have opportunities to interact with scholars, visit cultural institutions and explore places and traditions associated with the Mahabharata.

The programme will also include a 20-credit Capstone Project, allowing students to undertake an in-depth research project on a topic related to Mahabharata Studies.

Additionally, a Public Scholarship component and Comprehensive Viva Voce will assess students’ understanding of the subject and their ability to communicate research findings beyond conventional academic writing.

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What is the duration and credit structure of the Central Sanskrit University’s new MA in Mahabharata Studies?

The new MA in Mahabharata Studies is a two-year postgraduate programme carried out in academic collaboration with INDICA, and it features a total of 90 credits.

What are the four broad study areas covered in the MA in Mahabharata Studies curriculum?

The curriculum is structured around four broad areas which include Text, Thought, Society, and Civilisation, examining literary sources, philosophical concepts, governance, and the epic’s broad influence on Indian culture.

What practical and research components are included in the Central Sanskrit University MA programme?

In addition to classroom learning, the programme includes research and field-based components like Text, Research, and Immersion, alongside a 20-credit Capstone Project, public scholarship, and a comprehensive viva voce.

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