Mythical and Ritual Links in the Shahnameh and Mahabharata

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Corresponding Author, Assistant Professor, Department of Eastern Religions, Faculty of Religions, Qom University of Religions and Sects, Qom, Iran.

2 Researcher, Institute of Religions and Denominations affiliated with Qom University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran

Abstract

This research presents a comparative analysis of the mythical and ritual links in two epic poems, the Shahnameh and the Mahabharata, examining the cultural and historical commonalities between Indian and Iranian peoples. The study analyzes shared elements in the rituals and myths of these ancient works through an analytical-comparative approach. Ritual practices such as purification through blood, water, and fire, as well as sacrificial rites, are the focus. Results indicate that both epics reflect belief systems rooted in ancient Indian and Iranian traditions. For example, the horse sacrifice ritual in the stories of Kay Khosrow and the Pandavas symbolizes efforts to cleanse sins and attain salvation. Similarly, purity tests such as Siyavash’s passage through fire and Sita’s purification in the Mahabharata demonstrate shared beliefs in divine trials to prove righteousness. Furthermore, similarities in burial rites, including entombment in the Shahnameh and cremation in the Mahabharata, underscore the significance of purification and salvation in the mythological beliefs of both cultures. These findings suggest that the Shahnameh and Mahabharata serve as valuable cultural documents, revealing deep connections between Iranian and Indian civilizations. This study highlights the importance of comparative analyses in understanding cultural commonalities among ancient societies.Keywords: Shahnameh, Mahabharata, mythology, ritual, purification, sacrifice, comparative studies.

Keywords

References

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Comparative Study of Religions and Mysticism
Volume 10, Issue 2
October 2026
Pages 55-82

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History

  • Receive Date: 21 January 2025
  • Revise Date: 11 August 2025
  • Accept Date: 13 September 2025

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