Bhagavata Purana: With the Commentary of Sridhara Svamin

The present Purana is third in the series of the Purana Texts. The text, based on the Venkatesvara edition, is accompanied by the Commentary Bhavarthabodhini of Sridhara Svamin who interprets it on the lines of the Advaita School of Sankara. To the text is added a critical Introduction (both in English and Sanskrit), a Table of Contents in the beginning and an Index of Verses at the end. This Purana has a great attraction for Vaisnavas. It is called Bhagavata because it describes the nine fold devotion of the devotee for the illustrious Lord Krsna. The Purana is divided into twelve Skandhas. Skandha I is introductory. It opens with the Dialogue between Suta and Saunaka in hte Naimisa Forest. The pivot is Lord Krsna, though, as his associates, the Pandavas are also introduced. Skandha II is related to Devotion as the path of liberation but it also contains Catuhsloki Bhagavata-the original text which in it essence was philosophical rather than devotional. Skandha III describes creation, Astanga and Bhakti yogas. Skandha IV narrates the story of Dhruva, Vena, Prthu, Puranjana, Pracetas and others. Skandha V contains the history of Priyavrata, Agnidhra, Nabhi, Rsabha and Bharata. It includes a dialogue between Rahugana and Bharata on the Spiritual Knowledge. It deals with the Geography of the Terrestrial Globe too. Skandha VI is an exposition of Bhagavata Dharma, it illustrates the efficacy of Lord’s name and his glory. It narrates the story of Ajamila, history of Daksa, his progeny and Indra-Vrtru fight. Skandha VII describes the Virtue of Devotion by the story of Hiranyakasipu and his son Prahlada. Skandha VIII narrates the churning of the sea for nectar, manifestation of Mohini and Siva’s fascination for her. It also contains the story of Lord Vamana and King Bali. Skandha IX records the history of Kings of Solar and Lunar race. Skandha X presents a detailed account of the life of Lord Krsna and his wondrous exploits. Skandha XI elucidates Karma, Jnana and Bhakti yogas. Skandha XII concludes with the description of Dissolution, Suka’s precepts concerning Brahman, death of Pariksit and Janamejaya’s serpent sacrifice. This Purana is an excellent contribution to the study of Ancient Indian Tradition and Mythology.