Mahabharat

Mahabharat is a highly acclaimed Indian television series produced by B.R. Chopra and directed by his son Ravi Chopra. The series was brought to life by B.R. Films, produced by Rajshri Media and aired on the Doordarshan network between 1988 and 1990. Mahabharat wonderfully depicts one of the most well-known and intriguing epics from Indian mythology - the Mahabharata. With its compelling narrative and story arc, the series has been etched in the hearts of millions of viewers, not just in India, but around the globe.

The Mahabharata is revered for its moral, spiritual, and philosophical teachings embedded within its intricate narrative. This elaborate narrative was seamlessly translated on screen in the form of 94 episodes, each about 45-minutes long. Crafting such a complex story for television is no easy task. The creative brilliance of B.R. Chopra and Ravi Chopra along with the writing team is evident in the well-paced narrative, the nuanced portrayal of characters, and the careful balance between the philosophical teachings and the dramatic storyline.

Given the scale and scope of the epic, Mahabharat features a large ensemble cast, with each actor meticulously chosen to suit the characteristics of their respective roles. This successful casting resulted in remarkable performances that have left a lasting impression. The expressive delivery of powerful dialogues, paired alongside intricate costumes, gives viewers a taste of ancient India's grandeur and culture.

Mahabharat follows the rivalry between the Kauravas and the Pandavas, royal cousins fighting for the throne of Hastinapura. This epic tale encompasses several layers of conflicts – familial, political, and moral, and explores various dimensions of human character and emotions. It beautifully spins the intricate web of relationships and fights – that of brothers, of spouses, of friends, and of enemies, displaying the human tendencies of love, hate, jealousy, honor, and betrayal.

A distinctive feature of Mahabharat is its exploration of duty or ‘Dharma.’ The series skillfully navigates through complex moral dilemmas faced by characters in their pursuits. There is a heavy emphasis on righteousness, sacrifice, and the cyclical nature of karmic deeds. These life-altering teachings, delivered through this tale, have been skillfully integrated without overt preaching, leaving viewers to interpret the dilemmas and decisions, thus enhancing the viewers’ attachment to the show and its characters.

One of the keys to the series' impact is its grand scale, which includes epic battle scenes, majestic palaces, and artfully crafted sets that bring the story to life. To give the Mahabharat the honor it deserved, the show was crafted with great care and precision in each of its elements – from the opulent sets and costumes to the stirring background music, reflecting the era of the great Dwapar Yug and presenting a mesmerizing theater-like experience.

To many, Mahabharat has transcended the boundary of just a TV serial—it ingrained the essence of the epic in the Indian population's consciousness. While it showcases the chaotic clash of destinies, it also lends deep insights into the practical and philosophical aspects of life. Lasting much longer than its original air time and re-aired multiple times over the years, this series has achieved a legendary status.

For many, the influence of Mahabharat was such that it seeped into popular culture. It triggered a range of emotions in its viewers, from introspection to a sense of awe, keeping the audience glued to their television screens. Characters from the series became household names, and phrases from the dialogues became part of everyday communication.

Finally, of immense note is the voice of the unforgettable "Samay" (Time), rendered by Harish Bhimani, from the show's iconic opening sequence. This voiceover set the tone for each episode, imparting prophetic insights and underlining the role of Time in human affairs.

In summary, Mahabharat catapulted the ancient and timeless epic Mahabharata onto the television screen with a magic that still continues to spellbind its audience. It is a testament that powerful storytelling, coupled with exceptional acting and direction, can breathe life into ancient texts, making them relevant for contemporary viewers.