Puranas

“Puranas” are a genre of ancient Indian texts that encompass a vast array of traditional stories, legends, myths, genealogies, cosmology, theology, and teachings. These texts are considered part of the Hindu sacred literature, alongside the Vedas, Upanishads, and other religious scriptures.
The Puranas are diverse and expansive, comprising a total of 18 primary texts, each offering extensive narratives and wisdom. They are categorized into three groups based on their content: Sattva (goodness), Rajas (passion), and Tamas (darkness). These categories reflect the themes and primary deities depicted in each Purana.
These texts delve into various topics such as cosmogony (creation of the universe), genealogies of deities and sages, legends of gods and goddesses, religious rituals, moral teachings, and explanations of Hindu philosophy. They often serve to provide practical guidance for living a righteous life and understanding the universe through narratives, stories, and allegories.
The major Puranas include the Vishnu Purana, Shiva Purana, Bhagavata Purana, Markandeya Purana, Skanda Purana, and others, each dedicated to a specific deity or theme, focusing on their worship and significance in Hindu traditions.
Puranas also play a significant role in popularizing various Hindu myths and legends, such as the stories of creation, the cycles of life, the duties of individuals in society, and the importance of righteous conduct.
These texts have had a profound influence on Hindu culture, shaping religious beliefs, rituals, customs, and artistic expressions. They continue to be studied and revered as a repository of ancient wisdom, guiding principles, and spiritual knowledge within Hinduism.