Hinduism

The text written by ancient sages to systemize balance and disciplined human life and social system are known as Dhramshastra (Smirities). These are the text related to old customs and Rituals and also called Smirities attempt have been made to establish Sanantan religion in India through these text.

These text were written based on educations and knowledge of Vedas the laws established according to Dharam Shastras are known as Vidhis (the laws) in Vedic literature. There are two original sources of Hindu religion – Shruti (Vedic literature and Smirit (Dharamshastra). Shruti literature put ecphasis on Spiritual aspects of human life wree as Smiriti have fromed to give organised disciplined and systematic form to practical life of human.

Shruti and Smirities differs to each other on the point that Smritis are regarded  as God composed (In humane) were as Smirities have been belived to be composed by old saints keeping in view in the then human necessity and social system.

Smiritis were composed from 10th century B.C. to Gupta age and amendements have been made time to time. It is also belived that different smiritis were composed for different time period. According to Parashar smiriti, Manu Smiriti was composed for Satyug, Gautam Smirit for tretayug, Shankh Smirit for Dwarparyug and Pa rashar Smiriti for kaliyug.

Smritiyas are considered 18 in numbers like Puranas and up puranas. manu smiriti, Yagvalkya Smirit and Parashar Smiriti and most famous and popular among all.  Other 15 smiritis are – (1) Vishnu Smiriti (2) Daksh Smirit (3) Samvarta Smiriti (4) Vyas Smiriti (5) Harit Smiriti (6) Vashist Smiriti (7) Yama Smirti (8) Aapastambh Smirti (9) Gautam Smirti (10) Deval Smirti (11) Shankh Smirti (12) Attri Smiriti (13) Angira Smirti (14) Katayayan Smirti (15) Sounak Smirti.

The knowledge of Manu Smirti was first up all given by Bhumanu, himself to Bhrigu and other saints latter this knowledge was given by Bhrigu to other saints in presence of Manu. In it detailed description have been made on Dhram Varmna ashram etc. Descriptions about Manu and Manu Smirti have also been made in ancient religious literatures like aitraya Brahaman, Satpath Brahamans, Ramayan, Mahabharat, Tatriya Sanhita etc.

Presently manu Smirti is written in 12 Chapters consisting 269 & shlokas. It was translated into English by Chief Justice of Kolkatta Supreme court, Sir william Johns into English in 1794 first time and after that many of its laws were recognised in several courts.

Yagvalkya smirti was written after manu smirti and is considered having more progressive thought that manu smirti. It is said that yagralikya compiled Shukla – Yagurveda and inculcated king janak about it. However many historians belive it a composition of first century B.C. to third century B.C.

It consists detailed discussion on Royal duties, action, pertinants,  behaviour, customs etc. Latter Vigayaneshwar wrote a commentry. Mitakshra on it of which many facts are considered standard and have been implemented in Indian Courts.

According to Parashar smiriti on the begining of Kaliyug saints went to vyas rishi and asked him for giving religious in culcations for kaliyug. Vyas took them to his father Parashar and then Parashar wrote smirti after there requsts.

All the smiriti are classified into three parts based on subjects – action, behaviour and pertinants. It also consists detailed descriptions on role of a man in society as well as responsibilities, duties and role of a man in family.

it mentions about four importants aim (Purushartha) of human life – Dharam, Aath, Kam, Mokshya besides imphasis on four steps (Aashram) of life – Brahamcharya, Crihata, Vanprastha and Samyas, like wise Rights and duties of all the four vanas have also been described.

These smirti text are based on Shruti (Veda) However they are considered secondry composition. But Shrutis are considered of standard in case of controversies, if any.

Shaddarshan represents ancient Hindu philosphy. Vedic text are its base and they draw authencity from them. As such they are also called Astik darshan. However few of these six darshans do not believe in authority of god but belief in Vedas was the original base for astik darshan in ancient times.

The ideas and thought associated with soul, god, universe birth, death etc. are found in vedas. Its embryonic development is seen in Brahamanas and upnishad. this embryo latter became the base for six astic darshan after its development. The time period between 1500-600 BC as considered as the time of development of these thoughts.

Shankya darshan as propounded by Kapil Muni is considered fore most  among all Shad Darshana. 700 BC is considered its time period. Kapil Muni is also regarded as first Philospher of India. This philosphy belives in Vedas but do not considered God as creator of universe.

Shankya Darshan basically accept the elements of purush and prakriti among them akash etc, five Bhuls and Eleven Indians have been addressed as prakriti and considers that whole universe to be originated from these. According to this prakriti develops due to three qualities – sat, Raj and tam.

The impact of this philosphy could be seen on Jain philosphy and Bhagwat Geeta. Lord Krishna is considered as the earliest commentator of this philosphy. he had composed a text namely Shankyakarika and his time period is considered near to 100 AD.

Maharishi Patanjali had propounded yoga darshan its base is his famous composition, yoga sutra according to darshan shastra true knowledge of so as called yoga. This philosphy believes in authority of god, his supreme form besides soul and nature.

According to this yoga has two parts – Raj yoga and Hath yoga. The original base of Raj yoga lies in Vedantas were as tantra. Shartra is considerd as base of Hath Yoga. Maharishi Patanjali has described that there are eight steps (Charan) of yogas – Yam, Niyam, Aashan, Pranayam, Pratayahar, Dharna, Dhyan and samidhi – popularly these are called ashatang yoga.

The seedlings of these darshan could be seen in several upnishad like swetaswatar, Three pathways are considered of yoga – Gyan yoga (based on logies), Bhakti yoga (based on emotion). In the latter period 5^th influence could be seen on Budh philosphy.

Nayaya darshan stands third in the series of Shad Darshan. It was propounded by Gautam rishi who is also known by the name akshapad. His text Nayay Sutra is base for this philosphy. It considers that there is authority of god. God is one and god can be obtained only through the medium of true knowledge.

Indeed the main aim of this philospy is to support vedic knowledge and philosphy and to clarify different darshan as like budh darshan, Vatsyan (Pakshil wamin) is considered a Chief Commentator of this philosphy. this philosphy was dissected into two parts in 12 century – Prachin Darshan and Navin Darshan. Presently Navin Nayay Darshan has been recognised most.

Vaisheshik Darshan is also called anudarshan and it was propounded by Maharishi Kanad. His book Vaisheshek Sutra is the main base of this philosphy. It is said that Maharishi Kanad used to spent his life by Choosing grains. 3^rd century B.C. is considered as his time period.

According to this philosphy, all objects of the would is included in only seven substances – Pravya, Guna, Karma, Samanya, Vishesh and abhava. Classification of substances and principle of atomic weight are the greatest gift of this philosphy, universe has been created from Prithivi, Vayu, Jal, and tej as per this philosphy.

 This philosphy was very much popular in Gupta age during this period Prashasta Pad (six century AD) made this philosphy very popular by writeing own composition. This philosphy belives that soul is immortal and of as not destroyed in the period of doomsday on ten century famous commentators like adyan and Sridhar did the work of development of this philosphy.

Harivansh is a famous religious text based on the life, acts, and hierarehy of Lord Krishna. It has been added on Mahabharat on the last Chapter. It consists of many stories regarding Lord Vishnu, Dhruva, Daksha, Prithu, Vashistha, Vishuyamitra etc. It is belived that it was composed to complete the praise related stroies about Lord Krishna in Mahabharat.

According to schollars Harivansh was written many years after a composition of Mahabharat. probably it had become popular in first century BC famous schollars of Sanskrit, Ashvaghosh (Ist century AD) has also used to slokas of Harivansham in his composition. The scholars like Hazara considered it of Gupta age and believ that Harivansh and Vishnu Puran belongs to same time period.

Rishi Vyas had firstly recited ‘harivansh’ but Rishi Shanti is considerd as the real composer of this text who was son of Romharshan. This father-son duo is considered as composer of Puranas, also. According to traditional belief, Rishi Santi had recited this to Sonkadirishi in Naimisharanya. Modern form of Mahabharta is considered to be composed by him, also.

It has been composed in the popular Sanskrit language which has been presented in communication style. Vaishaniyayan Rishi recites this story to the king Janurnejya (son of king Parikshit). There are 163742 slokas in it. Most of the slokas of it are waither in Anushtup Chand, used in Puranas.

Harivansh is an important text related to Krishna cult. According to Adi Parwa of Mahabharata, Harivash has two much parts – Harivansh Parwa and Bhavisyat Parwa. Harivansh awailable in present time, consists of three parwas-Harivansh Parwa, Vishnu Parwa and Bhavishyat Parwa. It contains detailed description on Lord Vishnu, his activities and glory from the time of origin of universe upto Kalyug (Modern time)

 Presently two aditions of these text are available. In the first one there are 271 Chapters and 16374 shlokas were as second editions comprises 118 Chapters with 6073 Shlokas in tiree parts. Some Schloars belive that the originat Harivansh is from Chapter 20 to 98. The begining of Harivansh Parwa starts from  the questions of origin of universe from Janmayjay to Rishi Vaishampayan. This part also consist a story of king prithu and vaibashant manu. It also posses story of king Ikshwaku and king sagar. The ancestors of this king Sagar. Bhagirath is cradited for bringing holy river mother ganga to earth.

In this Parva talks about urukha, Divodas, Puruvansh etc. have been described in the later chapters. From Chapter 33 to 39 there are details about Yadav dynasty. it also posses story about famous Shyametak mani. It also had detailed discription related with battle between deities and demons along with stories of different incarnation of God.

Vishnuparva is a story completely about Lord Vishnu and his Krishnawatar. It begains with the warning by Narad to king Kansh of Mathura. That 8th children of his sister deviki will kill him. In the early Chapters of this Parva there are discriptions about birth and child acts of Lord Krishna.

Second part of this parva contains descriptions about events of youth period of life of Lord Krishna. It also contains stories about marriage with Rukumani, Battle wise Jarashandh, killing of several demons. Love acts of Lord Krishna and Punnayakvidhi Performed by womens etc. In the latter chapters descriptions have been made onj establishement of Dwarika, Marriage of son Pradummana and grand son Anirudh.

 Bhabhisya Parva explains about forthcoming events in Kaliyug as guessed by Rishi Viashamyapayan. It also consist of detailed discriptions on features of Kaliyug time period and family traditions of Janmayjay, decide Puskar trith and going of Lord Krishna to Kailash mountain. It also have descriptionjs about Sabotage of three cities. Tripur by Lord Shiva and the results of studying Mahabhart and Harivash.

Famous Jain Acharya of 8th century, Jinsen had composed Harivansh Puran with the aim of providing informations about 22nd trithankar aristhnemi. Aristhnemi is considered as cousin brother of Lord Krishna in this also some stories of harivansh with little change have been described.

Whatever the feelings and stories of Lord Krishna cult is flowing in modern times is absolutely based on Harivansh. It is also the source of many types of Karmakands (Rituals) regarding Krishna cult and love acts. Presently it has been published in many languages. Manmathnath datta has translated it into English.

The literal meaning of up puran is – auxiliary book on Puranas. As Puranas plays significant role in the successive development of Hindu religion similarly several sects were developed under Hindu religion in latter years completely based on there Puranas. There Puranas are considerably different from mahapuranas in several aspects from the view of creations, compositions and forms.

Many of the up puranas were written in the after years of Puranas it also consists relgious stories in good number which were written in praise of deites. Common public beliefs, traditions and religious faith have played important role in there compostions.

Many of the Puranas posses mentions of these up-puranas like –Garur puranas, Kurma Purana, Devi Blagwant Purana, Chintamani Puran, Himadri Purana, Dan Sagar of Ballal sen etc. These up puranas are 18 in numbers like puranas but there names are not common as described in various sources.

Many of the up puranas consist of stories and importants different god and godders however inspite of these there is strong imphases on single god or sect. based on this communal division up-puranas could be classified into six important parts – (i) Vaishnav up-puran. (ii) Shaiva up purana (iii) Sshakta up pusrana (iv) Saurya up purana (v) Ganpataya up purana (vi) Bahudev badi up purana.

Lord Vishnu have been mentioned as chief deity in Vaishnav up purana and consist stories related with his importants and power. Importants such puranas are – Vishnu Dhrama Purana, Narsing Purana, Vishnu Dharmottar Purana. Brihat Nardiya purana and Kriyayaga Sar Purana.

In 105 chapters of Vishnu Dharma Purana there are descriptions about pride and glory of Lord Vishnu. there are 68 chapters in Narsing purana which is dedicated to 4th in carnation, Lord Narsing. Vishnu Dharmottar Purana is compostion of Gupt period. It is considered as Vaishnav texts compose is Kashmir. It has been given due important because of the fact that it contains details descriptions on different forms of arts, dance, music, Painting, drawing, sculpture styles etc.

Lord Shiva is credited for putting  forward Sshaiva up purana the important up purana of this series are – Shiv Purana, Saurya Purana, Shiv Dharma Purana, Shiv Dharmothon Purana, Shiva Rahashya Purana, Parashan Purana, Ekagra Purana, Vikhyad Purana etc.

Saurya Purana draws special historical impportant of all up Puranas. 69 chapters of it certains intimate relations of Lord Shiva and Vishnu. Probably it would have assisted in reducing the apposition between these two faith. This purana was brought forward by Lord Surya and given to Manu.

Shaktya up purana consist descriptions about stories of Aadishakti, several incarnation etc. Important of Shakti up puranas are – Devi purana, Kalika purana, Mahabhagwat purana, Bhagwati purana, Chandi Puran, Sati purana, etc.

Amongst all, Devi Bhagwat and Kalika purana are quite popular in Bengal region. It is belived there are 98 chapters in Kalika purana. It consist different type of sacrifice for the goddes like Sacrifice of different animal and birds, crocodile, Buffalow. He goat, Rhinecerous, Black dear etc. This up purana is very popular and the oldest one in Bengal.

Samb-purana is considered as only one purana devoted to some god. Samb has been said as the most handsome and glorious son of Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna had given him the curse of becoming Laproscopic. In the latter year he could get relief from Laproscopy due to blessings of Lord Sun. There are 84 chapters in Shamb purana.

A popular regional festival has north India Chatta festival is believed to be isnpired from this  up purana. This festival is celebrated with full into Siasm in Bihar and Utter Pradesh.

There are two up purana related with Ganpatya sect –Mudgal purana and Ganesh purana. This consist of detailed story  about Lord Ganesha, his incarnation, has acts and Aasthvinayank form. This Ganpatya purana is very popular in maharastra area. There are several puranas which considered mentions of different god and goddess there glory, incarnations and importants. Importants such puranas are – Bhavishya Uttar Purana, Kapil purana, Brihatdhrama purana. In Bihatdhrama purana Balmiki and Vyas had been  considered as incarnation of Lord Vishnu beside Kapil and Buddha. The disciple, Lomharsha and son Agrashrava of Vedvyas is regarded as writer of these up puranas however they are compostions of latter years even they were composed upto 9-12 century AD.

Puranas are considered as base pillars of Hindu religion & culture. Its total numbers are 18. Vayu Puran commands 4^th position in the successive order of all puranas. It is so named because. It is dedicated to Vayu Deva (Lord of Air). Basically, it is a Shaiva-Puran which contians description regarding pride & 10 incarvations of Lord? Vishnu have been found mentioned in it.

Vayu dev, himself was the 1^st proclaimer of this puran. Later, Maharishi Vyaas had compiled it. When, in Naimishranya, a religious meet of about 26,000 saints & rishis under the leadership of Saunak rishi, then rishi Romharsan recited it to Saunak rishi & others, after being asked by them.

Majority of the scholars, considers Puran to be written in the last years of reign of Gupta Kingdom. this Puran was quite popular amongst people during 6^th-7^th century B.C. A count poet of Harshavardhan, Banbhatta writes in Harshcharit that he had recited the Vaya Puran in his original native village. In this basis, it can be concluded with due certainly that this text was compiled prior to 7^th century B.C.

Today, several editions of Vayu Puranas are available. Few of them were compiled in Bengal region & also some of them were compliled in the region of Marathwara. There are 24000 shlokas in it with a little variance which are contained 112 different chapters.

Vayu Puran of Anand Ashram & Bangvasi edition, have been divided into four parts (padas) – 1^st to 6^th chapter is called ‘Prakriya Pad’. Similarly, 7^th to 64^th chapter is called ‘Anushaang Pad’ 65^th to 99^th chapter is called upodhat Pad & lastly, 100^th to 112^th chapters are called Upsamhaar Pad’.

Like other Puranas, Vayupuran do also contains description related to stories of origin of the universe. The measurement of time has been made in it from origin of the universe upto Kaliyug. The stories of different ages (periods) & Mamantaras have been described in this reference.

The daughters of Prajapati Daksha were married to several rights like-kashyap, Atri, Bhrigu etc. This Puran also describes about family tradition of there rishis. Gods were born of Kashyap & Aditri while som is said to be the son of Atri & Anushiya.

In this Puran, lights have been thrown upon several kinds of living organisms, birds-animals, trees etc. & their birth. besides it, the family tradition of different kings right from Vaivashwat manu (7^th manu).

Geographically, this Puran holds much significance. It has been said in it that the whole earth is divided into seven islands & Jambu dweep is one, out of them. Later, Jambudweep is also divided into several regions called ‘Varsha’ and ‘Bharat Varsha stands one of them. It coantains detailed mention about names of different parts & regions and names of the inhabitants. it contains the names of seven Patals (under worlds) existing below earth. Where basuki & Sheshnaag resides.

8 chapters (chapter 105 to 112) of Vayu Puraan are known by the name, ‘Gaya Mahatmya’. However, such name do not appear in other several editions of it. it contains story of daughter of Dharma, Dharmavati which had become rock due to curse from his husband, rishi Marichi. Later, she meditated for about 1000 years and as such, Lord Vishnu (Gadadhar) blessed her that her rocku like physical body will have the residences of all gods. These in this context, name of a demon, Gayasur has also been found mentioned whose body was made abode of Lord Vishnu & other several Gods. This region came to be called ‘Gaya’ on the name of this Gayasur, demon.

It also contians mention of several kinds of social-religious rituals, their significances, Pashupat Yoga etc. in it. In few of its chapters, facts have been described associated with Indian classic song & music. Probably, the author of this Puran would have knowledge of Natyashastra of Bharat Muni.

Vayu Puran is an important source to know about Gupta age history & cultures. It holds informations related to several Gupta kings besides the then popular social-economic system.

Today, Vayu Puran has been translated into several languages. First of all, it was translated & published by Asiatic society of Bengal, Kilkatta in last years of 19^th century. Its editor was famous Bharat Shastri Rajendra Lal Mitra who had contributed lot-in publishing other Puranas. In 1910 AD, its another edition was published by Bangwasi press, Kilkata. At this time its bangla edition was published, also.

Brahmand Puran is the extreme last (18th) Mahapuran in the traditional succession of Mahapuranas. Its name describes about creation of the whole universe. It also consists geographical situation (position) of Jambudweep, Bharat Varsha & other islands. Adhyatma Ramayan is also considered a part of it. Besides, it has detailed description on famous royal dynasties, pilgrimages, Krishna – stories etc.

Maharishi Ved Vyas is considered as Ist author of this purana. Although, according to Brahmand Puranas. It was brought forward by Supreme God, Brahma, himself, for the first time. it porson talks between  Shiva-parvati, Haygriva-Aagusty  rishi etc, ugrashrava Shantik had recited it to a group of saints in namisharanya.

However there are descriptions about different events related to creation of universe in this purana. It was finally compiled in 6th century A.D. Al baruni also has described this purana in the list of 18 puranas.

Whole Brahamand Puran is divided into two sections having 14286 Shlokos. Its first section contians Poorva bhag, Madhayam bhag and Uttar Bhag. These bhags are latter sub divided into Padas-poorva bhag has two Pads-Prakriya Pad (Chapter 1-5) and Anusarg pad (Chapter 6-38). Madhyam bhag has one Pad-Upodghata (Chapter 1-74)  and Uttar bhag has also one Pad on its first subdivision-upsanhar (Chapter 1-4)

The scope of Brahmand Puran is diverse as its subject matters is observed. Brahama says that the whole universe has born of a huge golden egg. It also discusses about universal time calculation kalp, Manvantar, yug as well as description about successive changes in this period. 

 According to it whole Earth has seven important islands, of which Jambu deep is most famous. Jambu deep has seven Parts and India is one of them. Other Islands and parts include the names of Anudeep, Ketumal Varsh etc. It also consist description related to mountain, rivers etc. of India. 

One family description of Panch Lakshan of Puranas can  also be found in it. it throws light on Bhart Kul. Son of King Beg, Prithu, ancestors of gods, s aints etc. in details. This part can be considerd very important for political history indeed. 

Brahamand  Puran also posses information regarding Vedangas. It is to be noted that Vedanga were written for the Shake of are found in six numbers – Sikhgla, Kalp, Chhand, Vyakaran,  Nirukta and Jyotish, Brahamand Puran also have discussion on adikalp.

This puran is also significant for sacrificial rituals. Uttar bhag of it contains Lalito Pakhyan from Chapter 5-44. Its stories are recited by Haygriva, August rishi etc. The king of God Indra was disgusted with a demon, Bhanda. As such he performed yaga and Lalita Devi came into existance. This Lalita Devi made Indra tree of all fears by killing Bhanda. 

 Adhyatama Ramayan in also considered as   part of Brahamand Purana  many scholars considered it a composition of Lord Shiva. This Ramayan consist of seven sections divided into 65 Chapters and 4500 Shlokas. this part of Brahamand Purana is considered most popular and famous section. Goswami Tulsidas had been benefited very much from this while composing Ramcharit Manas.

Its different part contains detailed discriptions regarding different Pilgrimage. nasikatopakhyan (18 Chapter), Pinakini  Mahatma (12 Chapters etc. are also described in it. A discussion on spiritual importance of Kanchipuram as Kanchi Mahatma has been made on 32 Chapters. Kanchi is considered as one of the 7 important Cities of India. 

Brahamand Purana as an Ideal text for Krishna followers.  It also consists of description of Radha Krishan. 

This Puran has been published by different religious organisation and Venkteshwar press of Mumbai is considred of much standard than all. It contains almost all puranas description which are given in Narad Purana list.

Garuda Purana occupies significant position amongst diferent Puranas. This was recited firstly by Lord Vishnu to his carrier Garuda (King of birds). It is regarded as Vaishnav Purana. it contians all the subjects and matters of human use, as such it is called Vishnu  Kosh (Incyclopaedia) Generally it is read in the houses of hindus at the time of cremation became Uttar Khand is related with the life after  death.

Garuda Purana is considered as a composition of Gupta age as it contains a part of yagvalkya Dhram Shastra. Besides it also includes stories of Ramayan, Mahabharat and harivansh. The last edition of these text were written during Gupta period.

According to traditional belief this purana was brought forward by Lord Vishnu for the first time before bird king Garuda. Garuda had recited it to kashyap rishi Latter maharishi Vyas retold it to his disciple, Lomharshan and then comharshan had recited it to Shaunal Krishi and other saints in Namisharanya.

 Garuda purana contains about 19,000 Shlokas this text is divided into two parts – Purva Kand and Uttar Kand. Purva  Kand is descriptive and large containg 234 chapters were as Uttar Kand is comparatevely smaller and contain only 45 Chapter. 

The scope of this purana is quite wide regarding its subject matters. There is mention of Veternery, astrology, Medical science beside several religious aspects, there worship method. 

 Purva Kand of this purana begins with the question of Shaunak rishi and other saint. They want to know who is the god of God’s ? How to worship them ? How to end evils ? Who ends these evils ? What is religion ? How was the universe created. 

For answering these questions Lomharshan reads original garuda puran. he mentions about different incarnation of Lord Vishnu tiem to time. According to him lord had taken many in carnation but only 22 were important. he mentions Narad, Prithu, kapil, Dhanwantri, Ved Vyas, Balram as incarnation of Vishnu, besides Barah, Kurma, Narsing, Varman, Parsuram, Ram, Krishna etc. 

The name of Budh was not included in the list of incarnation who latter on was considered 9^th incarnation among 10 in carnation of Lord Vishnu. In this part there is description of different love acts of Lord Vishnu. This is also found in Harivansh. Information regarding medicinal and astrological science has also been provided in this part. 

Uttarkand of Garuda purana is called Preta-Kalp. There is detailed information on the life after death in it. it has been tradition from very ancient time to read this purana after the death of a person in Hindus. As such it has become most popular purana.

In this part there is mentioned about different rituals perfoemed after death and also detailed description of Journey of soul from earth to heaven, like wise it contains a large list of different punishment for dif ferent evil acts done during life period. Which is to be implemented by a soul in the hell. This  also contans each type of exploitation and tortures which could be possible. 

 Garuda purana command 17 position in the list of purana. It contains description on religious as well as secular subsects. Different types of diseases and medical remidy have been described as minutely as regarding Gems also it seens that its author was mulstifaceted person. 

Like other puranas it is also written in communicative style. It throws light on the then social, Polotical, religious and cultural conditions probably because of this purana has been given the name, Mahakosh (Encyclopaeding).

Matsya Awtar is regarded as first incarnation of Lord Vishnu and of total ten awtaras. Matsya Puran is associated with it and Lord Matsya is given credit for bringing it in to day-light. It commands 16^th positions in successive order of puranas. This Purana is considered as main historical source beside a descussion on several articles, Philosphical ideologys, rituals etc.

This Purana was recided to Manu by Lord Vishnu himself in his matsya awtar at the time of end of universe. This Purana was compilled by Maharishi Vyas latter rishi Sut je recited it to 26,000 rishies in namisharnaya. 

Few scholars considred it on the basis of events describe in it that it could have been written in scond century BC latter many appendix were added to it. In 5^th – 6^thcentury few appendix are seems to be added in it after the travelling of Al-Baurini to India.

Like other Puranas, this Purana is also presented in communicative style. it contained 19,000 Shlokas in it but presently it contians only 14,000 Shlokas to day its many edditions are availabel and which have almost no differences and are absolutely presented in there original form. 

The begining of Purana starts with talks between Manu and fish form Lord Vishnu. During the period of end of universe Vishnu had incarnated as fish to save the seed of universe Manu had made a huge boat at the time of end of universe. He had kept  safely seeds of all species of universe and had placed Sapta rishis on it. the thread of this boat was binded in the horns of Lord Vishnu in his fish incarnation.

During the end of universe fish form Lord Vishnu remained moving all around in the large water body and firstly took it to the peak of Malayachal. The story of this Purana was told during this. 

All the articles which have been described in other Puranas have also been described in Matsya Purana with little changes for eg. It has been told that Satrupa was the manas daughter of Brahama. During the story of creation of universe latter Satrupa gave birth to manu, marich etc. and seven sons from his father Brahama.

In the first part of this Purana light has been thrown on the development of history of universe. It also mentions about origin of deities, demons, Marutsa etc. It also described about King Ben and methods of worship of Lokpals. 

It also describes about manvantaras. One day of Brahama is considered as one Kalp and there are 14 manvantars in one Kalp. Each manvantar has one manu and one Indra. Swambhu manu was the first manu of this present kalp. Presently seventh manmantar is in continuation, Vaibashwatyamanu is regarded as manu of this manvantar. End of universe occurs after the end of each kalp.

This purana has been told in the form of forecast. It tells about ten awtars of Lord Vishnu – Matsya, Kurma, Varah, Narsing, Vaman, Parsuram, Ram, Krishna, Budh and Kallik, Beside it also describe about several Vrats like madan dwadsi  five features of Puranas has also been mentioned in it. 

In the second part of this purana there is description about significance of rituals being performed by successor of a man after his death like cremation, Pitritrith pravas. It also describes about history of yayati and birth of moon and other events. 

In the third part of Matsya Purana significance of different rivers and places have been written and the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna Sarswati at Prayag has been considered most important beside story about Samudra Manthan. It tells also about methods of making worship places, importants of different types of donations beside names of different Kalps.

Historically Matsya Purana had special important as a source. The informations about Satwahan dynasty and its rular given in it are considered most authentic. Beside it there is an introduction regarding author of this purana in Natyashastra of Bharatmuni. 

During Samudra Manthan Lord Vishnu had incarnated as Kurma (turtle) so it came to be known as Kurma Purana and it command fifteen position in the purana. It is considered in the given dew important in it. Beside it also mentions about origin of universe Brahaman religion incarnation of Lord Vishnu etc.

Kurma Purana talks of Lakshmi Kalp and Kurma awtar incident seems to be happened before origin of universe. Most of the scholars belived it to be written in 5^th century Gupta age. Like other puranas several appendix were added to it in middle age.

According to this purana the story about this was firstly recited by lord Vishnu himkself to Narad. Who latter recided into Suta je he brought it forward in namiyasharanya in a meeing of rishis. maharishi vyas was considered author of this purana also.

Presently available Kurma purana is divided into two parts containg 18000 shlokas and 99 chapters. Purva Bhag contains 53 chapters were as uttar bhag consist of 46 chapter all the five features of purana are found in it. Although many stories described in it differs from other purana.

On the basis of description regarding different purana in Narad Purana, Kurma Purana, was divided into four Sanhitas has mention below :

Sanhita	Pad	Shloka	Described subjects
Brahami Sanhita	-	6000	Presently available Kurma Purana
Bhagvad Sanhita	5	4000	Varnashrama religion
Souri Sanhita	6	2000	Six types of Magic/Mantras
Vaishnavi Sanhita	4	5000	Mention of religion, Salvation etc.

Kurma Purana begins with the glory of Lord Vishnu. it contians mentions of Lord Vishnu as incarnation in the form of Kurma and Maya form of Devi Lakshmi. At the time of Samudra Manthan Mandra Chal Mountain was used as Churning stick while Shesh nag was used as binding rope. just to provides supportive base to Mandrachal mountain Lord Vishnu had taken Kurma avtar.

Lord himself gives in culcations to Indradhuman. he was a Kshatriya rular in his early birth and took next birth as Brahaman due to his good works. He was inculcated religiously by god and was guided to save himself from Maya.

Regarding origin of universe of has been said in it that Supreme god created Mahabeej from his dual form (Purush and nature). he was named as Mahatma Madi, Dhruti, Pragya, Prabudh etc and this was the initial cause of origin of conivense

After that Ahamkar (Proudness) was created which was three types –Vaiyyakarika, Tejas and Tamas. Six types of nature born from these ahamkar – Abhiman, Karta, manata, Aatma, Putgal and Jeeva. Ahankar finally created Panch Maha Dhut – Prithivia, Jal, Agni, Vayu and Aakash. During this period five taqnmatra came into existance – Shabda, Sparsha, roop, Rash and Gandh.

It has been said in this Purana that after destruction of the whole world there was only water all around and only the universe was floating on it on which god, demon, hills, mountains and animals were created. The water area was ten times much elaborated that the universe. And ten times that the water area was the area of Air, Sky and Ahankar. it was the form of Sanatan universe.

The Lord Kurma tells that three god Brahama, Vishnu and Shiva there features and responsibility were determined during the period of Sanatan universe. After that Brahama started the construction of universe. He produced three manas putras and four Vedas. At that time there was not any type of discrimination.

This Purana also describes the story about Narsinghawtar and Prahlad in different style. Two demons – Hiranyakashyap and Hiranyakash were born of Kashyap rishi and aditi. Hirankashyap had defeated all the gods as such on the request of god Lord Vishnu reached in the state of hirankashyap as narsing. It is said that the four sons of hiranyakashyap Prahlad, Anhalad, Snehlad and Halad and even hirangakash could not defeated.

When there was no effect Pashupatashastra of Shiva on Narsing then Prahalad felt the knowledge of true form of god. He told his relative to treat Narsing as ultimate God but they criticised Prahlad. Latter Lord Vishnu is his narsing borm killed Hiranyakashyap and other demons and appointed Prahlad as king of demons.

This is the 14^th Puran in the traditional list of all available PUranas. It also contians elaborated description regarding Vaamanavtaar of Lord Vishnu & as such it is known as Vaaman-Puran. It is considered as Vaishnava Puran of Patrik0Praisti (spiritual nature) on account of its features. It has discussion on several themes like-origion of universe, different incarnations of Lord Vishnu, duties of human life etc.

It has also been written in communicative style like all other Puranas. Maharishi Pulastya (grand-father of Lankan king, Ravan) asked the questions asked by Devarishi Narad. it is belived that Narad recites, the knowledge obtained from Rishi Pulastya, to Vyas Rishi who compiled these knowledge in the form of Purans. The story of Vaaman Puran, in Naimisharanya, has been recited by Rishi Sutta to Saunak & other saints.

Scholars differ regarding its compilation period. Few of them, believe it be a composition of Gupta period on account of the described content in it. Indeed, many appendixes (Kshepales) have been added to it like other Puranas. As such, some of the scholars believe it to be written during 14^th – 15^th century. Al-beruni has also described about it.

There are ten salient features as observed in this purana – these are – Sarg, Visarg, Sthan, Poshan, Uti,  Vritti, Rakesha, Manavtar, Vansh & upashraya. the whole text has been divided into 96 chapters. Many of its stories has been mentioned in other purans also. But, explanations to the story have been varried in many ways.

In the very first chapter of this Purana, Narad asks Pulastya Rishi that what was the cause behind incarnation of Lord Vishnu as Vaaman ? Pulastya Rishi answer that a son of Raja Virochan, named Bali had defeated all she Gods & had controlled even on the heavfen. Lord Vishnu look birth as a son of Kashyap Rishi & Aditi & then saved the Gods. it has been said  that Aditi had taken promise from Lord Vishnu that he will solve the problem of Gods without killings of Demons.

Since, Sali was a religious person & liberal, too, so, Lord Vaaman demanded a land piece of only. Three prof steps for his yagya. when, Bali pleasantly fulfilled his demands, then Vaaman assumed universe-form & measure the whole earth in his first step. In the second step he measured the whole sky. he kept his 3^rd step on the heed of Bali after his request. it is said that Lord Vishnu sent Bali to Patal Lok (earth beneath ocean).

This Purana also deals with the story of Lord Shiva beside Vishnu. Simultaneously it also possess story of daksha Yagya and devi sati and renouncing of her body. This purana tells about the cause because of which Lord Shiva was not invited by daksha in his yagya and the cause is that Lord Shiva was Kapali. His head was adheard to his left hand due to cutting of head by Brahama and he was accused of Brahama killing.

This purana also find the story of demon king Andhak it is said that Vishnu follower Prahlad had fault against god on behalf of andhak and had defeated Dhramraj in this battle. It has also been said that Lord Shiva had blessed andhak that he could not be killed by any god or demon or any animal and he can not be burnt any fire.

This purana also describes geographical description of earth. It says that Jambudeep is divided into nine parts. Hiranyavarsh, Kinnarvarsh, Bharat Varsh, Harivarsh, Ketumal Varsh, Ramyak Varsh, Bhadr Varsh, Keru Varsh and ilavrit Varsh which is situated in between all. It also says that Bhart Varsh is also divided into nine parts and is surrounded with occean from all sides.

This purana mentions about ten features of religion like Satya (truth), ahinsa (non virlance), Dan (donation), achourya (non-stealing), Kshama (forgiveness), Suchita (Holyness) etc. and these are also adress of ten organs of religion. It also says that life of a Brahaman is divided into four ashramas-Brahamacharya, Grihasta, Vanaprastha and Sanyas. It throws light on the duties in each ashramas.

It also contians a story of Nar and Narayan. In this Nar and Narayan have been described as childrens of dhramraj and Murti, daughter of daksha. Devraj Indra had sent Kamdeva, Vasant and other beautiful womens to disturb them during there meditation. On the contrary Narayan gave, birth to a very beautiful girl form his thigth named Urvashi. All the beautiful womens of Indra were matchless to her beauty. Narayan gifted her to Indra.

The nine Chapters (34-42) of Vaaman Purana describes about Kurkshetra, Rivers  religious places, forest and there religious importance. In the second paragraph description is about Kashi tour of Lord Vishnu and important religious places. It also describes that during the bath at kapal Lochan torth. The lead adhered to hand of Lord Vishnu could only be separated f rom his body.

This purana also has description regarding several fasts being followed in Hindu religion. Vaaman dwadshi is belived to be associated with Lord Vaaman. This fast is observed on dwadshi of Shukla Paksha in Bhadramas with full sentity. this Purana also throws light on forms of Brahama.