There are numerous theories and stories why and how Bhagavad Gita became a part of the Mahabharata. This is one such story. Legend has it that when Sage Vyasa first composed the Mahabharata, Bhagavad Gita was not included.
Sage Narada who heard about the Mahabharata showed intense interest in it but the Sage was disappointed after reading the epic.
- He felt that the epic did not effectively bring out the teachings of Sri Krishna.
- Vishwaroopa Darshan in the Hastinapura Court and the agility and cleverness of Sri Krishna in the Kurukshetra battlefield is not enough felt Sage Narada.
- If the epic is to be universal, the teachings of Sri Krishna should be included.
- Answer to all the problems that Mahabharat raises is only found in the teachings of Sri Krishna, advised Sage Narada.
Sage Vyasa agreed to Narada Rishi. However, did not know how to include the teachings of Sri Krishna in the Mahabharata. He felt adding a new chapter to the already completed work will mar the readability of the entire text.
Sage Vyasa then went to Badri Ashrama and meditated on the banks of River Saraswati and in caves in the Himalayas. He prayed to Sri Krishna to find a solution.
On a Purnima (full moon) night, a lightning in the sky interrupted Sage Vyasa’s meditation. When the Sage looked at the sky, He saw a chariot driven by Sri Krishna with Arjuna standing on it moving fast across the sky.
On a Purnima (full moon) night, a lightning in the sky interrupted Sage Vyasa’s meditation. When the Sage looked at the sky, He saw a chariot driven by Sri Krishna with Arjuna standing on it moving fast across the sky.
Immediately Sage Vyasa stood up and bowed Sri Krishna. The idea of Gita took shape in the mind of the Sage. He offered prayers to Sri Krishna and began the composition of the Gita...Dharmakshetre Kurukshetre...
Sage Vyasa also did not have any doubt as to where the Bhagavad Gita should be included.