The eighteen Mahapuranas
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The Puranas ("ancient stories") retell creation, the genealogies of gods, sages and kings, and the avatars of Vishnu, Shiva and the Goddess. Tradition counts 18 major Puranas.
| Tradition | Hindu |
|---|---|
| Type | Purana |
| Language | Sanskrit |
| Period | c. 3rd–16th century CE, with many layers (scholarly estimate) |
| Composed or compiled by | Traditionally attributed to Vyasa |
What it contains
- The 18 Mahapuranas: Brahma, Padma, Vishnu, Shiva (some lists give Vayu), Bhagavata, Narada, Markandeya, Agni, Bhavishya, Brahmavaivarta, Linga, Varaha, Skanda, Vamana, Kurma, Matsya, Garuda and Brahmanda.
- Five classic subjects (pancha lakshana): creation, re-creation, genealogies, ages of Manu and histories of dynasties.
- Stories of avatars, pilgrimage places (tirtha mahatmyas), vows (vratas), festivals and temple rituals.
- There are also many Upapuranas (minor Puranas) and regional Sthala Puranas of individual temples.
Significance
The Puranas carried Vedic ideas to everyone through stories, and shaped Hindu festivals, temple worship, art and pilgrimage across India.