Forming an important part of the epic literature of India, the Puranas are indispensable source for the cultural history of India. They have been held to be of great importance and were considered sacred and are mentioned along with the four Vedas, Itihasa, etc., and called as the fifth Veda. They throw a flood of light in regard to the history, religion, rites and customs, language and cultural aspects of ancient India and are thus immensely useful for the scholars interested in the study of the subject. Of the eighteen Puranas, Srimad-Bhagavatam of Krishnadwaipayana Vyasa is most popular work and occupies an important position. In the twelve books, with three hundred and sixty chapters and eighteen thousand slokas, it deals with cosmogony, genealogies, myths, legends, etc., and enumerates in detail the avataras of Lord Vishnu with particular reference of Lord Krishna. It is a work of profound religious import enshrining in it the noble ideals of Bhagavata Dharma. In its vast framework, it encompasses the sublime concept of bhakti and mysticism. The thread of connected stories that runs through the work provide the base not only for the profound and mystical philosophy of life but also succour to those in quest for peace. The formidable task of translating of this enormous work from original Sanskrit into English has been ably accomplished by J M Sanyal for the benefit of those who would like to delve into the mysteries of Srimad-Bhagavatam.
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