18-maha-puranas-in-english.pdf

Dharmo rakshati rakshitah (Dharma protects those who protect it)
The Puranas
A compact, English-only version of
the Major 18 Puranas in one document
(overview of 18 Upa-Puranas,
and 28 additional Puranas - TBD)
Issue 1, Draft 1
Compiled by the Dharmic Scriptures Team
October 3, 2002
Ano Bhadraha Kritavayo Yantu Vishwataha (Let noble thoughts come from every side) – Rg Veda

Index:
1 BRAHMA PURANA............................................................................................................................................28
1.1 LORD BRAHMA.................................................................................................................................................28
1.1.1 A Profile of Brahmaji..............................................................................................................................28
1.1.2 Scriptural Appearance of Brahmaji........................................................................................................28
1.1.3 Four Heads of Brahmaji.........................................................................................................................28
1.1.4 White Beard of Brahmaji........................................................................................................................28
1.1.5 Swan as a Vehicle.................................................................................................................................28
1.1.6 Purpose of Holding Vedas.....................................................................................................................28
1.1.7 Rosary in Second Hand.........................................................................................................................29
1.1.8 Kamandalu (Coconut Shell Bowl)..........................................................................................................29
1.1.9 Seat of the Lotus...................................................................................................................................29
1.2 GODDESS SARASVATI.......................................................................................................................................29
1.2.1 Appearance of Sarasvati.......................................................................................................................29
1.2.2 Significance of Book and Veena (Lyre).................................................................................................30
1.2.3 Beaded Rosary......................................................................................................................................30
1.3 LORD VISHNU..................................................................................................................................................30
1.3.1 Appearance of Lord Vishnu...................................................................................................................30
1.3.2 Reflection of Scriptural Appearance......................................................................................................30
1.3.3 Scientific Depiction of Vishnu’s Appearance..........................................................................................30
1.3.4 Why does Lord Vishnu rest on Sheshanaga?........................................................................................30
1.3.5 Why is Lotus in the Navel?....................................................................................................................31
1.3.6 Why does Vishnu stay in the Sea of Milk?.............................................................................................31
1.3.7 Reason for holding the Wheel...............................................................................................................31
1.3.8 Reason for holding the Conch...............................................................................................................31
1.3.9 Purpose of Kaustubhamani...................................................................................................................31
1.3.10 Why does Lord Vishnu hold a Mace?..................................................................................................32
1.3.11 Why is Garuda (Eagle) the Vehicle of Vishnu?....................................................................................32
1.4 GODDESS LAXMI..............................................................................................................................................32
1.4.1 Why Goddess Laxmi presses the feet of God?.....................................................................................32
1.4.2 Reason for Liquidity of Laxmi................................................................................................................32
1.4.3 Why is the owl the vehicle of Laxmi?.....................................................................................................32
2 PADMA PURANA............................................................................................................................................... 33
2.1 SHRISHTIKHAND...............................................................................................................................................33
2.1.1 The Beginning of Creation.....................................................................................................................33
2.1.2 Lord Brahma’s Life-Span and the Chronological Order of the ‘Eras’.....................................................34
2.1.3 The Four Prominent Castes...................................................................................................................35
2.1.4 The Manifestations of Goddess Laxmi..................................................................................................35
2.1.5 Sati gives up her Life.............................................................................................................................36
2.1.6 The Origin of Deities, Demons and Serpents........................................................................................36
2.1.7 The Origin of Marudganas.....................................................................................................................37
2.1.8 King Prithu and the Surya Dynasty........................................................................................................38
2.1.9 Bashkali, the Demon king......................................................................................................................39
2.1.10 Sri Ram kills Shambuk.........................................................................................................................40
2.1.11 Manifestation of Ganesh & Kartikeya..................................................................................................40
2.1.12 An Ideal Brahmin and the Significance of the Gayatri Mantra.............................................................41
2.1.13 A Brahmin’s Livelihood........................................................................................................................42
2.1.14 Narottam – The Brahmin.....................................................................................................................42
2.1.15 The Significance of Rudraksha, Amla & Tulsi......................................................................................44
2.1.16 The Importance of Surya’s Worship....................................................................................................44
2.2 BHUMIKHAND...................................................................................................................................................44
2.2.1 Different Types of Sin and Virtue...........................................................................................................44
2.2.2 King Yayati propagates Vaishnava-Dharma..........................................................................................45
2.2.3 Yayati marries Ashrubindumati..............................................................................................................45
2.2.4 Kunjal – The Enlightened Parrot............................................................................................................46

2.2.5 Kunjal Preaches Vijjwal.........................................................................................................................46
2.2.6 Kunjal Narrates about his Previous Birth...............................................................................................47
2.3 SWARGAKHAND................................................................................................................................................ 47
2.3.1 Some Prominent Holy Places in Bharat-Varsha....................................................................................47
2.3.2 Jambubarg, River Narmada, Amarkantak..............................................................................................48
2.3.3 ‘Dharma-Teertha’ & Yamuna-Snan.......................................................................................................48
2.3.4 Kashipuri, Kapardishwar & Gaya...........................................................................................................49
2.3.5 Puranas – The Embodiment of Sri Hari.................................................................................................49
2.4 PATALKHAND...................................................................................................................................................49
2.4.1 Sheshnag narrates the Tales of Sri Rama’s Return from Lanka............................................................49
2.4.2 Ravana – The Mighty Demon................................................................................................................50
2.4.3 Agastya Advises Sri Rama to Perform Ashvamedhya Yagya................................................................51
2.4.4 The Horse is Let Loose..........................................................................................................................51
2.4.5 Lav Fastens the Horse...........................................................................................................................51
2.4.6 Lav Vanquishes the Whole Army...........................................................................................................51
2.4.7 Lav Becomes Unconscious...................................................................................................................51
2.4.8 The Army Returns to Ayodhya...............................................................................................................52
2.4.9 Sri Rama sends Laxman to bring Sita...................................................................................................52
2.4.10 Sita Returns to Ayodhya......................................................................................................................52
2.5 UTTARKHAND................................................................................................................................................... 53
2.5.1 Badrik-Ashram.......................................................................................................................................53
2.5.2 The Descent of River Ganga.................................................................................................................53
2.5.3 Dasharatha Pacifies Shani....................................................................................................................53
2.5.4 Qualities of a Vaishnava........................................................................................................................53
2.5.5 Indraprastha.......................................................................................................................................... 54
2.5.6 Vaikunth – The Abode of Lord Vishnu...................................................................................................54
2.5.7 The Incarnations of Matsya and Kurma.................................................................................................54
2.5.8 NriSimha Incarnation.............................................................................................................................55
2.5.9 Vaman Incarnation................................................................................................................................55
2.5.10 Sri Rama’s Birth...................................................................................................................................56
2.5.11 Sri Rama Grows Up.............................................................................................................................56
2.5.12 Sri Rama’s Exile..................................................................................................................................57
2.5.13 Sri Rama’s Coronation.........................................................................................................................57
2.5.14 Sri Krshna............................................................................................................................................ 58
2.5.15 Killing of Kansa....................................................................................................................................59
2.5.16 Jarasandh............................................................................................................................................ 60
2.5.17 Abduction of Rukmini...........................................................................................................................60
2.5.18 Sri Krshna’s Queens............................................................................................................................61
2.5.19 Anirudha Marries Usha........................................................................................................................61
2.5.20 The Decline of the Yadu Dynasty........................................................................................................62
2.5.21 Rituals of Vishnu Worship....................................................................................................................63
2.5.22 Lord Vishnu – The Almighty God.........................................................................................................64
2.5.23 Parashuram ........................................................................................................................................64
3 VISHNU PURANA............................................................................................................................................... 66
3.1 CHAPTER 1 (PART 1).......................................................................................................................................67
3.1.1 Introduction and Origin of the Universe from Basic Elements................................................................67
3.1.2 Birth of Brahma and Salvation of Earth by Varaha................................................................................68
3.1.3 Divisions of Earth and Origin of Cereals................................................................................................69
3.1.4 Birth of Prajapatis and their Progeny.....................................................................................................69
3.1.5 Creation of Rudra and Omnipresence of Laxmi.....................................................................................70
3.1.6 Dhruv’s Migration to the Forest..............................................................................................................71
3.1.7 Dhruv Pleases God with his Penance...................................................................................................72
3.1.8 Tale of King Ven and Prithu...................................................................................................................73
3.1.9 Birth of Prachin Barhi Worship of God by Prachetas.............................................................................75
3.1.10 Marriage of Prachetas and Birth of Prajapatis.....................................................................................75
3.1.11 Tale of Prahlad and Narasimha Incarnation........................................................................................77
3.1.12 Attempts to Kill Prahlad.......................................................................................................................79
3.1.13 Description of Lord’s Virtues by Prahlad and Protection of Prahlad by Sudarshan Chakra.................79

3.1.14 Appearance of the Lord.......................................................................................................................80
3.1.15 Lineage of Kashyap’s Other Wives and Origin of Marudgana.............................................................80
3.1.16 The Description of Universal Order.....................................................................................................81
3.2 CHAPTER 2 (PART 2).......................................................................................................................................82
3.2.1 Description of Priyavrat’s Lineage.........................................................................................................82
3.2.2 Geographical Description......................................................................................................................82
3.2.3 Division of Bharat and Other Landmasses............................................................................................83
3.2.4 Description of Other Dvipas...................................................................................................................83
3.2.5 Description of the Nether Worlds...........................................................................................................84
3.2.6 Description of Hells................................................................................................................................85
3.2.7 Description of Celestial Worlds..............................................................................................................85
3.2.8 Order of the Sun, the Stars and other Constellations............................................................................85
3.2.9 Twelve Names of the Sun......................................................................................................................86
3.2.10 Description of Surya Shakti and Vaishnava Shakti..............................................................................87
3.2.11 Description of the Nine Planets...........................................................................................................88
3.2.12 Life Sketch of Bharat...........................................................................................................................88
3.2.13 Jadabharat Preaches the King............................................................................................................90
3.2.14 Tale of Ribhu and Nidaagh..................................................................................................................90
3.2.15 Ribhu Preaches Nidaagh.....................................................................................................................91
3.3 CHAPTER 3 (PART 3).......................................................................................................................................91
3.3.1 Description of Manvataras.....................................................................................................................91
3.3.2 Birth of Savarni Manu and Description of the Next Manvataras............................................................92
3.3.3 Description of Veda Vyasa and the Significance of BrahmaGyana.......................................................93
3.3.4 Expansion of the Branches of the Rg Veda...........................................................................................93
3.3.5 Description of the Branches of the Yajur Veda......................................................................................94
3.3.6 The Branches of the Sama Veda and the 18 Puranas..........................................................................94
3.3.7 Yama Gita.............................................................................................................................................. 94
3.3.8 Duties of Four Classes of Society..........................................................................................................95
3.3.9 Description of Different Ashrams...........................................................................................................95
3.3.10 Customs and Consecrations................................................................................................................96
3.3.11 Description of Righteousness..............................................................................................................96
3.3.12 Sanctification after Birth and Death.....................................................................................................97
3.3.13 Days for Monthly Oblations..................................................................................................................97
3.3.14 Method for Oblations...........................................................................................................................97
3.3.15 Do’s and Don’t during Oblation............................................................................................................98
3.3.16 The Battle of Gods and Demons.........................................................................................................98
3.3.17 Dialogue of Mayamoha with Demons..................................................................................................98
3.4 CHAPTER 4 (PART 4).......................................................................................................................................99
3.4.1 Description of Vaivasvat Manu’s Lineage..............................................................................................99
3.4.2 Description of Ikshvaku’s Lineage.......................................................................................................100
3.4.3 Progeny of Mandhatr, Ascend of Trishanku to Heaven and Birth of Sagar..........................................102
3.4.4 Description of Suryavansh...................................................................................................................103
3.4.5 Tale of Nimi and Description of his Lineage........................................................................................104
3.4.6 Description of Somavansh and the Tale of Pururava..........................................................................105
3.4.7 Birth of Jamadagni and Vishwamitra...................................................................................................106
3.4.8 Description of Kashyavansh................................................................................................................106
3.4.9 Description of King Raji and his Sons..................................................................................................107
3.4.10 Tale of Yayati.....................................................................................................................................107
3.4.11 Description of Yaduvansh and the Tale of SahastrArjuna.................................................................107
3.4.12 Description of Kroshtuvansh..............................................................................................................108
3.5 CHAPTER 5 (PART 5).....................................................................................................................................108
3.5.1 Puruvansh........................................................................................................................................... 108
3.5.2 Description of Kuruvansh.....................................................................................................................109
3.5.3 Incarnation of Lord Krshna..................................................................................................................110
3.5.4 Appearance of Lord in Devaki’s Womb...............................................................................................111
3.5.5 Killing of Putana and Salvation of other Demons.................................................................................112
3.5.6 The Sages Curse Yaduvanshis...........................................................................................................138
3.6 CHAPTER 6 (PART 6).....................................................................................................................................140
3.6.1 Descriptions of Dynasties in Kali-Yuga................................................................................................140

4 SKANDA PURANA........................................................................................................................................... 142
4.1 MAHESHWAR KHAND.......................................................................................................................................142
4.1.1 Daksha’s Animosity towards Lord Shiva..............................................................................................142
4.1.2 Sati jumps into the Sacrificial Fire........................................................................................................142
4.1.3 Virtues of Worshipping Lord Shiva......................................................................................................143
4.1.4 Churning of the Ocean........................................................................................................................143
4.1.5 The Emergence of Ambrosia...............................................................................................................143
4.1.6 Lord Brahma’s Boon to Tarakasur.......................................................................................................144
4.1.7 Shiva tests Parvati’s Devotion.............................................................................................................144
4.1.8 The Arrival of the Sapta-Rishis............................................................................................................145
4.1.9 Birth of Kartikeya.................................................................................................................................145
4.1.10 Kartikeya Kills Tarakasur...................................................................................................................146
4.1.11 Virtues of Observing a Fast on Shiva-Ratri........................................................................................146
4.1.12 Kartikeya’s Sorrow.............................................................................................................................147
4.1.13 Killing of Pralamb...............................................................................................................................147
4.1.14 Kaalbhiti’s Austere Penance..............................................................................................................147
4.1.15 Karandham’s Queries........................................................................................................................148
4.1.16 Arunachal Shiva Linga.......................................................................................................................149
4.1.17 Lord Shiva – The Sovereign Creator.................................................................................................149
4.1.18 Execution of Shumbh, Nishumbh and Mahishasur............................................................................150
4.1.19 Parvati Receives Arunchaleshwar’s Grace........................................................................................150
4.2 VAISHNAV KHAND...........................................................................................................................................151
4.2.1 Lord Varah satisfies Prithvi’s Curiosity................................................................................................151
4.2.2 Lord Varah Mantra...............................................................................................................................151
4.2.3 Manifestation of Padmavati.................................................................................................................152
4.2.4 Padmavati becomes Lord Hari’s Consort............................................................................................152
4.2.5 King Parikshit.......................................................................................................................................152
4.2.6 Krshna Teertha....................................................................................................................................153
4.2.7 Some Other Places of Pilgrimage on Venketachal Mountain..............................................................153
4.2.8 Anjana’s Penance at Akash-Ganga Teertha........................................................................................154
4.2.9 Lord Vishnu Advises Lord Brahma to go to Purushottam Kshetra.......................................................154
4.2.10 Markandeya Eulogizes Vishnu..........................................................................................................154
4.2.11 Holy Places in the vicinity of Purushottam-Kshetra...........................................................................155
4.2.12 Vidyapati Eulogizes Lord NeelMadhava............................................................................................157
4.2.13 Indrayumna Leaves for Purushottam-Kshetra...................................................................................158
4.2.14 Indrayumna Reaches Ekamrachhetra...............................................................................................158
4.2.15 Indrayumna Eulogizes Lord NeelMadhava........................................................................................159
4.2.16 Narad Installs the Idol of NriSimha....................................................................................................159
4.2.17 Indrayumna Performs Ashvamedhya Yagyas....................................................................................159
4.2.18 Jaganath Idol is Carved Out..............................................................................................................159
4.2.19 Consecration of the Idols...................................................................................................................160
4.2.20 Rath Yatra.........................................................................................................................................161
4.2.21 Some Prominent Places of Pilgrimage..............................................................................................161
4.2.22 The Majesty of Badri-Kshetra............................................................................................................161
4.2.23 The Importance of Hindu Month, Kartik.............................................................................................162
4.2.24 The Importance of Holy Dips in Margashirsh.....................................................................................162
4.2.25 The Significance of Charity made in Vaishakh..................................................................................162
4.2.26 Ayodhyapuri.......................................................................................................................................163
4.3 BRAHM KAND................................................................................................................................................. 163
4.3.1 Rameshwar Kshetra............................................................................................................................163
4.3.2 Setu Bandh.......................................................................................................................................... 163
4.3.3 Rameshwar Linga................................................................................................................................164
4.3.4 DharmaRanya Kshetra........................................................................................................................164
4.3.5 Loss of Moral Values in Kaliyuga.........................................................................................................165
4.3.6 The Significance of ChaturMasya Vrata..............................................................................................165
4.3.7 Importance of Abstinence during Chaturmas.......................................................................................165
4.3.8 Rituals Pertaining to Shodash Upachar...............................................................................................165
4.4 KASHI KHAND................................................................................................................................................ 166

4.4.1 Vidhyachal Obstructs the Path of Surya..............................................................................................166
4.4.2 Agastya orders the Vindhya Mountains to diminish their size..............................................................167
4.4.3 Kashi – The Sacrosanct Place of Pilgrimage.......................................................................................167
4.4.4 Lord Kartikeya Describes the Majesty of Kashi...................................................................................167
4.4.5 The Origin of Kashi..............................................................................................................................168
4.5 AVANTI KSHETRA KHAND.................................................................................................................................168
4.5.1 Sanat Kumar Glorifies Mahakaal Teertha............................................................................................168
4.5.2 Kapal Mochan......................................................................................................................................169
4.5.3 Various Names of Ujjainipuri...............................................................................................................169
4.5.4 The Grandeur of Avantipuri.................................................................................................................170
4.5.5 The Descent of Narmada.....................................................................................................................170
4.5.6 Narmada Marries Purukutsu................................................................................................................171
4.5.7 Manu Receives a Boon from Narmada................................................................................................171
4.5.8 Jamadagni receives Kaamdhenu........................................................................................................171
4.5.9 Description of Hell...............................................................................................................................172
4.6 NAGAR KHAND...............................................................................................................................................172
4.6.1 Trishanku cursed by Vashishth’s Sons................................................................................................172
4.6.2 Vishwamitra Commences New Creation.............................................................................................173
4.7 PRABHAS KHAND............................................................................................................................................173
4.7.1 Description of Puranas and Up-puranas..............................................................................................174
4.7.2 Prabhas Teertha..................................................................................................................................174
4.7.3 Somnath Linga....................................................................................................................................175
4.7.4 Different Names of Somnath...............................................................................................................175
4.7.5 Siddheshwar Linga and Siddha Linga.................................................................................................175
4.7.6 Chandra Deva Eulogizes Shiva...........................................................................................................176
4.7.7 The Significance of Getting One’s Head Tonsured..............................................................................176
4.7.8 The Emergence of Sarasvati in Prabhas Kshetra................................................................................177
4.7.9 Prabhas – The Abode of Trinity Goddesses........................................................................................177
4.7.10 Dvarka Mahatmya – Sages Queries to Prahlad.................................................................................178
4.7.11 The Sanctity of Dvarkapuri................................................................................................................178
5 SHIVA MAHA-PURANA...................................................................................................................................180
5.1 VIDYESHWAR SAMHITA....................................................................................................................................181
5.1.1 Sages Enquire.....................................................................................................................................181
5.1.2 Proposition and Means........................................................................................................................181
5.1.3 Listening, Kirtan, Contemplation..........................................................................................................182
5.1.4 Greatness of Shiva Linga....................................................................................................................182
5.1.5 The Deities go to Kailash Mountain.....................................................................................................182
5.1.6 Anaal-Stambh (The Pillar of Fire)........................................................................................................182
5.1.7 Shiva Obliges Brahma.........................................................................................................................183
5.1.8 Consecration of Maheshwar................................................................................................................183
5.1.9 Omkar.................................................................................................................................................. 184
5.1.10 Rituals of Shiva Worship....................................................................................................................184
5.1.11 Sacred Pilgrimages of Shiva..............................................................................................................184
5.1.12 Conduct of the respective Castes......................................................................................................185
5.1.13 Types of Dharma...............................................................................................................................185
5.1.14 Appropriate Place and Time for Worshipping Shiva..........................................................................185
5.1.15 Worshipping the Idol of Shiva............................................................................................................186
5.1.16 The Majesty of Pranav Panchakshar.................................................................................................186
5.1.17 Worldly Bondage and Salvation.........................................................................................................187
5.1.18 The Worship of Parthiva Linga..........................................................................................................187
5.1.19 Methods of Worshipping Parthiva Linga............................................................................................187
5.1.20 Number of Parthiva Shivalingas........................................................................................................187
5.1.21 Importance of Naivedya and Bilva Leaves.........................................................................................188
5.1.22 The Majesty of Shiva’s Name............................................................................................................188
5.1.23 The Importance of Bhasma in Shiva’s Worship.................................................................................188
5.1.24 Importance of Rudraksha..................................................................................................................189
5.2 RUDRA SAMHITA............................................................................................................................................189
5.2.1 Shrishti-Khand.....................................................................................................................................189

5.2.2 Victory of Narada over ‘Kama’.............................................................................................................189
5.2.3 Narada’s Ego Subdued:.......................................................................................................................190
5.2.4 Vishnu Preaches Narad:......................................................................................................................190
5.2.5 Brahmaji Preaches Narad:...................................................................................................................190
5.2.6 The Origin of Vishnu............................................................................................................................190
5.2.7 Origin of Brahmaji................................................................................................................................191
5.2.8 Dispute Between Brahmaji & Vishnuji.................................................................................................191
5.2.9 Shabda-Brahma..................................................................................................................................191
5.2.10 Shabda-Brahma Tanu.......................................................................................................................192
5.2.11 Shiva Enlightens Brahma & Vishnu...................................................................................................192
5.2.12 Age of Brahma, Vishnu & Rudra........................................................................................................192
5.2.13 The Methods of Worshipping Shiva...................................................................................................192
5.2.14 Acquiring of Shiva Lingas by the Deity..............................................................................................192
5.2.15 Methods of Worshipping Shiva Linga................................................................................................193
5.2.16 The Virtues of Worshipping Shiva Methodically.................................................................................193
5.2.17 The Origin of Kailash & Vaikunth.......................................................................................................193
5.2.18 The Emergence of Rudra-Avatar.......................................................................................................193
5.2.19 Creation............................................................................................................................................. 193
5.2.20 Gunanidhi, The Brahmin’s Son..........................................................................................................194
5.2.21 Gunanidhi’s Salvation........................................................................................................................194
5.2.22 Shiva Blesses Gunanidhi...................................................................................................................195
5.2.23 Shiva goes to Kailash........................................................................................................................195
5.2.24 The Manifestation of ‘Kama’..............................................................................................................197
5.2.25 Brahma Curses Kamadeva................................................................................................................197
5.2.26 Kama Married Rati.............................................................................................................................197
5.2.27 Sandhya does Penance.....................................................................................................................197
5.2.28 Sandhya Receives a Boon from Shiva..............................................................................................198
5.2.29 Sandhya’s Birth & her Marriage with Sage Vashistha.......................................................................198
5.2.30 Appearance of Spring Season (Vasant Ritu).....................................................................................198
5.2.31 The Creation of Marganas and Kama’s Futile Attempts....................................................................199
5.2.32 Dailogue Between Brahma & Vishnu.................................................................................................199
5.2.33 Goddess Durga.................................................................................................................................199
5.2.34 Daksha Worships Devi......................................................................................................................199
5.2.35 Daksha Curses Narad.......................................................................................................................199
5.2.36 Birth of Sati........................................................................................................................................200
5.2.37 Sati does Penance............................................................................................................................200
5.2.38 Brahmaji makes a request to Lord Shiva...........................................................................................200
5.2.39 Shiva Blesses Uma with a Boon........................................................................................................200
5.2.40 Shiva Married Sati.............................................................................................................................200
5.2.41 Lord Brahma Faces the Wrath of Shiva.............................................................................................201
5.2.42 Deformed Face of Brahma................................................................................................................201
5.2.43 Shiva-Shakti as Husband & Wife.......................................................................................................201
5.2.44 Shiva-Shakti Depart for Himalya........................................................................................................201
5.2.45 The Importance of Devotion in Kaliyuga............................................................................................201
5.2.46 Sati’s Doubt.......................................................................................................................................202
5.2.47 Shiva does not see Sati as his consort..............................................................................................202
5.2.48 Daksha’s Animosity towards Shiva....................................................................................................202
5.2.49 Daksha Performs Yagya....................................................................................................................203
5.2.50 Sati’s Arrival at the Oblation Site.......................................................................................................203
5.2.51 Sati’s Dishonor..................................................................................................................................203
5.2.52 Sati Gives Up Her Life.......................................................................................................................203
5.2.53 Manifestation of Veerbharda & Mahakali...........................................................................................203
5.2.54 Veerbhadra & Kali Assemble their Army............................................................................................204
5.2.55 Daksha Experiences Inauspicious Signs...........................................................................................204
5.2.56 Lord Vishnu Preaches Daksha..........................................................................................................204
5.2.57 Daksha Gets his Head Severed........................................................................................................204
5.2.58 Contention between Kshuva & Dadhichi............................................................................................204
5.2.59 Battle between Vishnu & Dadhichi.....................................................................................................205
5.2.60 The Deities go to Lord Shiva.............................................................................................................205

5.2.61 Daksha becomes Alive......................................................................................................................206
5.2.62 Daksha Organizes Yagya once again...............................................................................................206
5.2.63 Parvat Khand: Himalya Marries Maina..............................................................................................206
5.2.64 Maina gets Liberated from the Curse................................................................................................206
5.2.65 Invocation of Ua.................................................................................................................................207
5.2.66 Goddess Uma Consoles the Deities..................................................................................................207
5.2.67 Maina and Himalya Commence Penance..........................................................................................207
5.2.68 Birth of Parvati...................................................................................................................................207
5.2.69 Divine Childhood Plays of Parvati......................................................................................................207
5.2.70 The Dreams of Parvati and Himalya..................................................................................................208
5.2.71 The Birth of ‘Bhaum’-Mars.................................................................................................................208
5.2.72 Shiva Arrives at Himalya....................................................................................................................208
5.2.73 Conversation between Parvati & Shiva..............................................................................................209
5.2.74 The Birth of Vajrang...........................................................................................................................209
5.2.75 Birth of Tarakasur and his Penance..................................................................................................210
5.2.76 Tarakasur Relinquishes Heaven on the Advice of Lord Brahma.......................................................210
5.2.77 Kamadeva Sent to Lord Shiva...........................................................................................................210
5.2.78 Efforts of Kamadeva..........................................................................................................................210
5.2.79 Kamadeva Reduces to Ashes...........................................................................................................210
5.2.80 The Anger of Shiva Subsides............................................................................................................211
5.2.81 Narada Preaches Parvati...................................................................................................................211
5.2.82 Parvati does Penance........................................................................................................................211
5.2.83 The Deities go to Lord Shiva.............................................................................................................212
5.2.84 Salutations Gives His Approval.........................................................................................................212
5.2.85 Parvati’s Love for Shiva Tested by the Sapta-Rishis.........................................................................212
5.2.86 Lord Shiva Tests Parvati....................................................................................................................212
5.2.87 Parvati’s Reply...................................................................................................................................212
5.2.88 Shiva Reveals his True Identity.........................................................................................................212
5.2.89 Shiva Demands Parvati as his Consort.............................................................................................213
5.2.90 Shiva’s Delusionary Power................................................................................................................213
5.2.91 Shiva Instructs Sapta-Rishis to Convince Maina & Himalya..............................................................214
5.2.92 Anaranya, The King...........................................................................................................................214
5.2.93 Padma and Pippalad.........................................................................................................................214
5.2.94 Himalya Sends Lagna-Patrika...........................................................................................................215
5.2.95 Lord Shiva Invites the Deities............................................................................................................215
5.2.96 Lord Shiva’s Marriage Procession.....................................................................................................215
5.2.97 Shiva Divine Plays.............................................................................................................................215
5.2.98 Maina’s Wail......................................................................................................................................215
5.2.99 Himalya Bestows Parvati to Shiva.....................................................................................................216
5.2.100 Shiva Brings Back Kamadeva Alive.................................................................................................216
5.2.101 Shiva’s Departure............................................................................................................................216
5.2.102 Kartikeya.......................................................................................................................................... 217
5.2.103 Search for Kartikeya........................................................................................................................217
5.2.104 Kartikeya’s Coronation.....................................................................................................................217
5.2.105 Kartikeya’s Amazing Character.......................................................................................................217
5.2.106 The Battle........................................................................................................................................218
5.2.107 Killing of Tarakasur..........................................................................................................................218
5.2.108 Killings of Pralamb & Banasur.........................................................................................................218
5.2.109 Ganesh............................................................................................................................................ 218
5.2.110 Ganesha Defeats The Shivaganas & The Deities...........................................................................219
5.2.111 Shiva Severes Ganesh’s Head........................................................................................................219
5.2.112 Ganesh Becomes Alive...................................................................................................................219
5.2.113 Ganesha’s Marriage........................................................................................................................219
5.2.114 Yudh-Khand: Tripurasur- The Three Demon...................................................................................220
5.2.115 The Deities Eulogize Shiva & Vishnu..............................................................................................220
5.2.116 Emergence of Atheism....................................................................................................................221
5.2.117 The Deities Eulogize Lord Shiva......................................................................................................221
5.2.118 Killings of Tripurasurs......................................................................................................................221
5.2.119 The Deities Receive a Boon from Shiva..........................................................................................222

5.2.120 Lord Shiva Spares The Life of Indra................................................................................................222
5.2.121 Manifestation of Jaladhar.................................................................................................................222
5.2.122 Battle Between Jalandhar & The Deities.........................................................................................223
5.2.123 Battle Between Lord Vishnu & Jalandhar........................................................................................223
5.2.124 Narad’s Stratagem...........................................................................................................................224
5.2.125 Battle Between Lord Shiva & Jalandhar..........................................................................................224
5.2.126 Vrinda Gets Dishonored..................................................................................................................224
5.2.127 Killing of Jalandhar..........................................................................................................................225
5.2.128 The Deities Express Gratitude.........................................................................................................225
5.2.129 Manifestation of Amla (Myrobalan), Tulsi (~Basil) and Malti............................................................225
5.2.130 Birth of Shankhachuda....................................................................................................................225
5.2.131 Shankhachuda’s Marriage...............................................................................................................225
5.2.132 Shankhachuda Becomes the Ruler of All Three Worlds..................................................................226
5.2.133 Shiva Assures the Deities................................................................................................................226
5.2.134 Conversation Between Pushpadant & Shankhachuda....................................................................226
5.2.135 Shiva Proceeds with his Army.........................................................................................................226
5.2.136 Shankhachuda Proceeds with his Army..........................................................................................226
5.2.137 Battle Between the Deities and the Demons...................................................................................226
5.2.138 The Battle Between Shiva’s Family & Shankhachuda.....................................................................226
5.2.139 Strategy Employed to Kill Shankhachuda........................................................................................226
5.2.140 Lord Shiva Kills Shankhachuda.......................................................................................................227
5.2.141 Tulsi Curses Lord Vishnu.................................................................................................................227
5.2.142 Killing of Hiranyaksha......................................................................................................................227
5.2.143 Lord Shiva Teaches The Secrets of Mrita-Sanjivani Vidya to Shukracharya...................................227
5.2.144 Andhak’s Splendors.........................................................................................................................228
5.2.145 Battle Between Lord Shiva and Andhak..........................................................................................228
5.2.146 Reemergence of Shukracharya.......................................................................................................229
5.2.147 Killing of Gajasur.............................................................................................................................229
5.2.148 Killing of Nirhaddaitya......................................................................................................................229
5.2.149 Killing of Vidal and Utpal..................................................................................................................230
5.3 SHATRUDRA SAMHITA.....................................................................................................................................230
5.3.1 Sadhojat (1).........................................................................................................................................230
5.3.2 Naamdeva (2)......................................................................................................................................230
5.3.3 Tatpurush (3).......................................................................................................................................230
5.3.4 Ghoresh (4).........................................................................................................................................231
5.3.5 Ishan (5).............................................................................................................................................. 231
5.3.6 Eight Idols of Shiva..............................................................................................................................231
5.3.7 Shiva as Ardhanarishwar.....................................................................................................................231
5.3.8 Various Incarnations of Vyasa and Lord Shiva....................................................................................231
5.3.9 Nandikeshwar......................................................................................................................................232
5.3.10 Bhairav Gets Liberated from his Sin..................................................................................................233
5.3.11 Shiva Takes an Incarnation as Sharabh............................................................................................233
5.3.12 Vishwanar Receives a Boon from Shiva............................................................................................233
5.3.13 Shiva’s Incarnation as Grihapati........................................................................................................234
5.3.14 Grihapati’s Penance..........................................................................................................................234
5.3.15 Lord Shiva’s Incarnation as Yaksheshwar.........................................................................................234
5.3.16 Dash Avatar (10 Incarnations of Shiva).............................................................................................235
5.3.17 The Origin of Eleven Rudras.............................................................................................................235
5.3.18 Shiva’s Incarnation as Durvasa.........................................................................................................235
5.3.19 Incarnation of Hanuman....................................................................................................................236
5.3.20 Shiva’s Incarnation as Mahesh..........................................................................................................236
5.3.21 Lord Vishnu Creates Turbulences.....................................................................................................236
5.3.22 Shiva’s Incarnation as Vrishabh........................................................................................................237
5.3.23 Killing of Vrittrasur.............................................................................................................................237
5.3.24 Shiva’s Incarnation as Yatinath.........................................................................................................238
5.3.25 Shiva’s Incarnation as Krshna Darshan.............................................................................................238
5.3.26 Lord Shiva Appears as a Beggar.......................................................................................................239
5.3.27 Lord Shiva Appears in the Guise of Indra (Sureshwar).....................................................................239
5.3.28 Sage Vyasa Advises the Pandavas to Worship Shiva.......................................................................240

5.3.29 Indra Appears before Arjun................................................................................................................240
5.3.30 Lord Shiva Appears in the Guise of Kirat...........................................................................................241
5.3.31 Kirat Blesses Arjun............................................................................................................................241
5.3.32 The Twelve Jyotirlingas.....................................................................................................................241
5.4 KOTI RUDRA SAMHITA....................................................................................................................................242
5.4.1 The Greatness of Upalingas................................................................................................................242
5.4.2 Atri and Anusuya do Penance.............................................................................................................243
5.4.3 The Greatness of Atri..........................................................................................................................243
5.4.4 The Brahmin Woman Attains to Heaven..............................................................................................243
5.4.5 Mahabal Shiva Linga...........................................................................................................................244
5.4.6 The Reason Behind Phallic Worship...................................................................................................244
5.4.7 The Origin of Batuknath.......................................................................................................................245
5.4.8 The Origin of Somnath.........................................................................................................................245
5.4.9 The Origin of Mallikarjuna....................................................................................................................246
5.4.10 The Origin of Mahakaleshwar............................................................................................................246
5.4.11 The Origin of Omkareshwar...............................................................................................................246
5.4.12 The Origin of Kedareshwar................................................................................................................247
5.4.13 The Origin of Bheema Shankar.........................................................................................................247
5.4.14 The Origin of Vishveshwar.................................................................................................................247
5.4.15 The Origin of Trayambakeshwar.......................................................................................................247
5.4.16 The Origin of Baidyanath...................................................................................................................248
5.4.17 The Origin of Nageshwar Jyotirlinga..................................................................................................249
5.4.18 Establishment of Rameshwar............................................................................................................249
5.4.19 The Origin of Dhushmesh Jyotirlinga.................................................................................................250
5.4.20 Lord Vishnu Receives Sudarshan Chakra.........................................................................................251
5.4.21 Shiva Sahastranaam.........................................................................................................................251
5.4.22 The Greatness of Sahastranaam.......................................................................................................251
5.4.23 The Devotees of Shiva......................................................................................................................251
5.4.24 Austerities & Fastings Connected with Shiva’s Worship....................................................................251
5.4.25 Mahashivaratri...................................................................................................................................252
5.4.26 Accomplishment of Shivratri (Uddyapan)...........................................................................................252
5.4.27 The Greatness of Shivaratri...............................................................................................................252
5.4.28 Different Stages of Liberation............................................................................................................253
5.5 UMA SAMHITA................................................................................................................................................ 254
5.5.1 Conversation Between Krshna & Upamanyu.......................................................................................254
5.5.2 Sri Krshna Does Penance...................................................................................................................254
5.5.3 Classification of Grave Sins.................................................................................................................255
5.5.4 The Description of Hell........................................................................................................................255
5.5.5 Charity and its Importance...................................................................................................................255
5.5.6 The Description of the Netherworld (Patal Loka).................................................................................256
5.5.7 Liberation From Hell............................................................................................................................256
5.5.8 The Description of Seven Islands........................................................................................................256
5.5.9 The Description of Planets...................................................................................................................257
5.5.10 Categories of Austerity (Tapa)...........................................................................................................257
5.5.11 The Origin of Body.............................................................................................................................257
5.5.12 Purification of the Body......................................................................................................................257
5.5.13 Control over Death (Ichchha Mrityu)..................................................................................................257
5.5.14 The Descent of Ganga.......................................................................................................................258
5.5.15 The Austerities of Ved Vyasa............................................................................................................258
5.5.16 Incarnation of Mahakali......................................................................................................................258
5.5.17 Incarnation of Mahalaxmi...................................................................................................................259
5.5.18 Incarnation of Mahasarasvati.............................................................................................................259
5.5.19 Uma Warns the Deities......................................................................................................................260
5.5.20 The Incarnation of Shakambari..........................................................................................................260
5.6 KAILASH SAMHITA...........................................................................................................................................260
5.6.1 Classifications of Yoga........................................................................................................................260
5.6.2 Conduct of a Sanyasi..........................................................................................................................261
5.6.3 Methods of Shiva Worship...................................................................................................................261
5.6.4 The Greatness of Pranay Mantra........................................................................................................261

5.6.5 Initiation of a Sanyasi..........................................................................................................................261
5.6.6 Last Rites of an Ascetic (Sanyasi).......................................................................................................262
5.7 VAYVIYA SAMHITA.......................................................................................................................................... 262
5.7.1 The Origin of Vidya (Knowledge).........................................................................................................262
5.7.2 The Tale of Naimisharanya..................................................................................................................263
5.7.3 Time – The Radiance of Shiva............................................................................................................263
5.7.4 Time – Calculation...............................................................................................................................263
5.7.5 Meditation............................................................................................................................................ 264
5.7.6 Rituals Connected with Shiva’s Worship.............................................................................................264
5.7.7 Pashupat Vrata and its Rituals............................................................................................................264
5.7.8 Introduction of the Universe.................................................................................................................265
5.7.9 Duties of a Brahmin.............................................................................................................................265
5.7.10 Chanting of Mantras..........................................................................................................................266
5.7.11 Establishing Deities in the form of Alphabets within the Body...........................................................266
5.7.12 Mental Worship of Shiva....................................................................................................................266
5.7.13 Method of Doing Mental Worship......................................................................................................266
5.7.14 Method of Performing Havan.............................................................................................................267
5.7.15 Auspicious Days for Performing Shiva Worship................................................................................267
5.7.16 Desirable Rituals (Kamya Karma).....................................................................................................267
5.7.17 Rituals Pertaining to Shiva Worship (Shaiva Kamya Karma).............................................................268
5.7.18 Installation of Shiva Linga..................................................................................................................268
5.7.19 Classification of Yoga........................................................................................................................268
5.7.20 Hurdle in the Path of Yoga.................................................................................................................268
5.7.21 Shiva Yoga........................................................................................................................................269
5.7.22 SanatKumar Receive Shiva-Gyan from Nandi...................................................................................269
6 VAMANA PURANA........................................................................................................................................... 271
6.1 INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................................................... 271
6.2 TALES OF LORD SHIVA....................................................................................................................................271
6.2.1 Shiva Returns to Mandaar Mountain...................................................................................................271
6.2.2 Atonement of Lord Shankar.................................................................................................................272
6.2.3 Sati Gives up her Life..........................................................................................................................272
6.2.4 The Destruction of Daksha’s Yagya....................................................................................................273
6.3 TALES OF DEMONS.........................................................................................................................................273
6.3.1 Andhak – The Demon King..................................................................................................................273
6.3.2 Sukeshi’s Queries................................................................................................................................274
6.3.3 Sinful Deeds........................................................................................................................................274
6.3.4 Jambudweep and Bharatvarsh............................................................................................................274
6.3.5 Dashaang Dharma..............................................................................................................................275
6.3.6 The Rise and Fall of Sukeshi’s Kingdom.............................................................................................275
6.4 TALES OF NAR-NARAYANA..............................................................................................................................276
6.4.1 Manifestation of Nar-Narayana............................................................................................................276
6.4.2 Prahlad meets Nar-Narayana..............................................................................................................276
6.4.3 Prahlad blessed by Nar-Narayana.......................................................................................................276
6.5 MANIFESTATION OF VEGETATION FROM THE DEITIES...........................................................................................277
6.6 MAHISHASURA................................................................................................................................................ 277
6.6.1 Mahishasura’s Atrocities......................................................................................................................277
6.6.2 The Demons – Chand and Mund.........................................................................................................278
6.6.3 Killing of Mahishasura.........................................................................................................................279
6.6.4 Reincarnation of Goddess Durga........................................................................................................280
6.7 TALES OF KING KURU AND KURUKSHETRA.........................................................................................................280
6.8 BALI – THE DEMON KING................................................................................................................................281
6.8.1 Deities go to Brahma Loka..................................................................................................................281
6.8.2 The Deities do Penance......................................................................................................................281
6.8.3 Lord Narayana Blesses Kashyap........................................................................................................282
6.8.4 Lord Vishnu Appears...........................................................................................................................282
6.8.5 Bali’s Queries to Prahlad.....................................................................................................................282
6.8.6 Manifestation of Lord Vaaman.............................................................................................................282
6.8.7 Lord Vaaman’s Demands....................................................................................................................283

6.9 SARASVATI RIVER.......................................................................................................................................... 283
6.10 KURUKSHETRA.............................................................................................................................................284
6.11 SAGE MANKANAK EULOGIZES SHIVA...............................................................................................................284
6.12 SOME SACRED PLACES OF PILGRIMAGE..........................................................................................................284
6.12.1 Aushanas Tirtha................................................................................................................................284
6.12.2 Vashishtha-pavah Tirtha....................................................................................................................285
6.12.3 Kamyakvan Tirtha..............................................................................................................................285
6.12.4 Sthanu Tirtha.....................................................................................................................................285
6.13 SAGES TAKE LORD SHIVA’S REFUGE..............................................................................................................286
6.14 GREATNESS OF STHANU TIRTHA....................................................................................................................287
6.14.1 The Greatness of Saanihitya Sarovar and Sthanu Tirtha..................................................................287
6.14.2 Other Prominent Lingas.....................................................................................................................287
6.14.3 King Ven, Birth of Prithu....................................................................................................................287
6.14.4 Ven Attains Heaven...........................................................................................................................288
6.15 THE ORIGIN OF BRAHMESHWAR’S FOUR HEADS...............................................................................................288
6.16 PRITHUDAK TIRTHA.......................................................................................................................................288
6.17 BIRTH OF UMA AND HER MARRIAGE TO SHIVA..................................................................................................289
6.17.1 Mena gives birth to Uma....................................................................................................................289
6.17.2 Lord Shiva sends Marriage Proposal.................................................................................................290
6.17.3 Uma Marries Lord Shiva....................................................................................................................290
6.17.4 Vishwakarma Constructs a Palace....................................................................................................291
6.17.5 Killing of Nishumbh and Shumbh.......................................................................................................292
6.17.6 Birth of Kaartikeya.............................................................................................................................293
6.17.7 Kaartikeya Kills Taraka and Mahishasura..........................................................................................294
6.17.8 Ritudhwaj Injures Paatalketu.............................................................................................................295
6.17.9 Lord Shiva does Penance..................................................................................................................295
6.17.10 Lord Vishnu Kills Mura.....................................................................................................................296
6.18 DESCRIPTION OF HELLS................................................................................................................................297
6.19 KING DANDA AND ARAJA...............................................................................................................................297
6.19.1 Andhakasura – The Demon...............................................................................................................297
6.19.2 Vishvakarma becomes a Monkey......................................................................................................298
6.19.3 Search for Chitrangada and Vedavati................................................................................................299
6.19.4 Sage Shukracharya Curses Danda...................................................................................................301
6.20 LORD SHIVA PREPARES FOR THE BATTLE........................................................................................................301
6.20.1 Ganas Throng Mandar Mountain.......................................................................................................301
6.20.2 The Battle Commences.....................................................................................................................302
6.20.3 Shukracharya Uses Sanjeevani Vidya...............................................................................................302
6.20.4 Lord Shiva Kills Andhak.....................................................................................................................304
6.20.5 The Origin of Marut Ganas................................................................................................................305
6.20.6 Marut Ganas of Different Manvataras................................................................................................305
6.20.7 Lord Vishnu Kills Kaalnemi................................................................................................................306
6.21 KING BALI................................................................................................................................................... 307
6.21.1 Bali Rules Heaven.............................................................................................................................307
6.21.2 The Splendors of Bali........................................................................................................................307
6.22 MYTHOLOGICAL TALES..................................................................................................................................307
6.22.1 Dhundhu Performs Ashvamedhya Yagya..........................................................................................308
6.22.2 Pururava Regains his Good Looks....................................................................................................308
6.22.3 The Description of Nakshatra Purusha..............................................................................................309
6.22.4 Prahlad’s Pilgrimage..........................................................................................................................309
6.22.5 Tales of Upamanyu and Shridama....................................................................................................310
6.22.6 Gajendra and the Crocodile...............................................................................................................310
6.22.7 The Greatness of Sarasvat Stotra.....................................................................................................311
6.23 BALI PERFORMS ASHVAMEDHYA YAGYA..........................................................................................................311
6.23.1 Bali’s Arrival at Kurukshetra...............................................................................................................311
6.23.2 Arrival of Lord Vaaman at Kurukshetra..............................................................................................312
6.23.3 Lord Vaaman’s Demands..................................................................................................................313
6.23.4 Lord Brahma Worships Lord Vaaman...............................................................................................314
6.23.5 Bali Lives in Paatal Loka....................................................................................................................314
6.23.6 Bali’s Queries to Prahlad...................................................................................................................314

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