There are four yugas, or ages, and they are of a cyclical nature. It begins with the Satya yuga, an epoch of blessedness, and ending with the Kali, an age filled with malice and war—and each succeeding age is characterised by diminishing virtue and righteousness, and increase in the suffering of humanity.Â
Satya yuga, 4800 years long. The First Age, a period of true peace and prosperity. Disease and strife are unknown, only wealth and happiness. Humanity enjoys a longer, content lifespan.
Treta yuga, 3600 years long. The Second Age, and war makes its first appearance. Disease comes into existance, as does greed. Dharma is tainted.
Dwapara yuga, 2400 years long. The Third Age. Disease and sin are prevalent. Dharma is greatly diminished, avarice and misery prevail.
Kali yuga, 1200 years long. Ignorance and hate reign supreme. Wars, famine, and poverty are commonplace. Virtue is a rare trait among humans.
Together, the four ages are called a maha yuga, lasting for 12,000 years. After the passing of a thousand such cycles, all of existence is annihilated in a cosmic cataclysm, the pralaya. The Universe is then forged anew by Brahma, the Supreme Creator. The cycle of Time begins yet again.