Garuda Purana
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
A Vaishnava Purana told by Vishnu to Garuda. Its section on death and the afterlife is read in many homes during the days of mourning.
| Tradition | Hindu (Vaishnava) |
|---|---|
| Type | Purana |
| Language | Sanskrit |
| Period | Composed in layers over many centuries (scholarly estimate) |
| Composed or compiled by | Traditionally attributed to Vyasa |
What it contains
- Dialogues between Vishnu and his eagle mount, Garuda.
- The Preta Khanda on death, funeral rites (shraddha) and the journey of the soul.
- Medicine, gems and astrology.
- Ethics and conduct.
Significance
Its Preta Khanda guides the rituals for the departed in many Hindu families, especially in North India.