Readers probably may wonder why Shiv Shankar chooses mostly ancient Puranas as themes for his books. It is because in this "Kali Yuga", the whole world is in great turmoil. People do not bother about "Dharma, dogmas or principles. Everywhere. there is corruption, nepotism, favoritism and partiality. In short, people do not believe in leading a righteous life.

In this scenario, a solution can only be found in ancient Scriptures and Upanishads In this great Indian epic, we find all kinds and aspects of human beings. There is nothing under the sun that has been set aside in this immortal work.

For example, in one supreme protagonist, we find a high sense of paternal affection and respects unparalleled in mankind; he comes forward to make a big sacrifice. Another character is prepared to lead her life with her blind husband by closing her eyes with a 4 piece of cloth throughout her life.

Villainy, cruelty, ruthless and unscrupulous attitudes are seen in another important yet evil character. The highest degree of gratitude is portrayed in another who is known for his valor and heroism. There are so many other attractions which will be seen with awe, wonder and admiration when anyone starts reading this great epic.

Tiruchirapalli Sivaraman Shanmugasundaram, whose pen name is Shiv Shankar, has been a writer for the last two decades. His first published book was in Tamil and is called Sinanda Kudumba Thalaivi-meaning "An Excellent Housewife". "His Sojourn in America is a travelogue about what America is and the governance of its nation and the people's customs and cultures. His other book, Fire Years in Tanzania, is about his rich experiences in East Africa, where he worked as an education officer.

Furthermore, he edited magazines in several colleges, where he worked and prepared "Souvenirs" of service organizations, etc. He also writes free-verse poetry and has published many of his poems in an acclaimed literary journal, entitled Efflorescence, as a member of the Chennai Poet's Circle.

He was awarded The Best Principal Award in 1997 by the government of Tamilnadu. instituted in memory of Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan, the great philosopher-cum-statesman. Recently, he has turned his attention to writing for the children and youth. This is how the present publication, India's Epic Mahabharata, is released and is currently lying in your hands for you to read and enjoy.

I am placed in a position where I surmise that so many of my readers might wonder how this author again and again chooses the theme for his books (for the youth and children) form the Puranas. Yes, it is pertinent on their part to do so. These two Indian epics 'Mahabharatha' and 'Ramayana' are the two great assests of our 'Bharatha Bhoomi' (Mother country) and they are the true gifts to mankind!

Like the two great epics Homer's Iliad, and Virgil's Aeneid, these two epics of ours are the greatest treasures to the whole Humanity especially for the literates. They are also works of great art irrespective of religion, caste, creed and community. The Greek and Roman Writers too have given many great literary works to the reading public of the world.

The reason for my choosing this theme as well as the other one about Rama and Sita is this. Both these works are universal in both their nature and spirit. They are not restricted to Indians only; rather they are the masterpieces appealing to the whole mankind.

**Contents and Sample Pages**