Imagine the Mahabharata as a vast tapestry, its threads woven from countless smaller tales that illuminate war, duty and human nature. A handful of the most memorable sub-stories:

• Nala and Damayanti: A roller-coaster of love and loss. Separated by curses and chance, their steadfast devotion eventually triumphs. Today’s binge-watch dramas could learn a thing or two from their unwavering faith in each other.

• Savitri and Satyavan: A jewel of conjugal loyalty. When Death himself comes for Satyavan, Savitri’s fierce intellect and determination win his blessing to restore her husband’s life. It still resonates when facing life’s toughest challenges.

• Shakuntala and King Dushyanta: A tale of love, memory and royal destiny. Forgotten by a curse, Shakuntala’s grace—and a ring lost in a river—ultimately reunite her with Dushyanta. It’s the original “will-they, won’t-they” saga long before streaming platforms existed.

• The Yaksha Prashna: Dharma in question-and-answer form. When Yudhishthira faces a wise guardian spirit’s riddles, each response packs a moral punch. It’s like a TED Talk on ethics, centuries ahead of its time.

• Ekalavya’s Sacrifice: A prodigy of unwavering devotion, he offers his right thumb to Guru Dronacharya. This heart-wrenching act forces reflection on ambition, fairness and the costs of excellence—still hot topics in today’s debates over opportunity and equity.

• Amba’s Vow: Spurned princess turned fierce avenger, she vows to end Bhishma’s life across lifetimes. Her story highlights how unbridled anger can fuel cosmic consequences, echoing modern discussions on justice and revenge.

• Kacha and Devayani: A lesson on teacher-student boundaries. Their entwined fates ask where professional duty ends and personal desire begins—an evergreen dilemma.

These parables, each a universe in miniature, drive home lessons on love, sacrifice and ethics. They’re the tip of an epic iceberg—inviting every generation to dive deeper into questions that still shape today’s world.