In order to extend the fame of the highsouled Pandavas and other Kshatriyas, learned in all branches of knowledge, high-spirited and already famous in the world for their great deeds, Krishna Dvaipayana, moved by the desire of benefiting the world, has composed this excellent, sacred and big work which spreads one's fame and gives one a long life. He who, from the desire of acquiring virtue, causes this history to be heard in this world by holy Brahmanas, gains inexhaustible virtue. He who recites the history of the Kurus, becomes immediately pure and holy.