The term "Indriya" in the context of the Mahabharata, Bhagavad Gita and broader Sanskrit literature, is generally used to denote the senses or faculties of perception and action. Derived from the Sanskrit root "id" or "ind," it's an essential construct in understanding human interaction with the physical, emotional, and spiritual world.

The Bhagavad Gita discusses Indriya in the narrative of self-control and emancipation, expounding that one should master and not be enslaved by their senses. It lists five faculties of perception: sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch - and five of action: speech, prehension (grasping), locomotion, excretion, and procreation. The mind (manas) is often regarded as the coordinating eleventh Indriya.

In the Mahabharata's narrative, the concept of Indriya comes integrated with the philosophy of Dharma (righteousness) and Karma (action). The controlled application of Indriyas in accordance with Dharma leads to Karma, a critical determiner of one's life course.

Sanskrit literature further delves into this concept, explaining how the Indriyas connect with both the physical and astral body. The physical senses allow perceptual data to flow from the material world, while certain schools of thought also discuss subtler senses that connect with spiritual realizations.

Overall, Indriyas play a crucial role in governing how an individual perceives, responds to, and acts in the world, laying a foundation for their journey of growth and realization. In the pursuit of a balanced life, mastery over these senses is encouraged without completely negating their purpose and function.