Puranam

Puranam refers to a genre of Indian literature that tells stories about cosmology, gods, goddesses, and kings. These ancient texts are primarily written in Sanskrit and are part of the Hindu religious tradition. The Puranas are encyclopedic in nature, covering a wide range of topics including creation, genealogies of deities and rulers, cosmic cycles, and philosophical explanations.

There are traditionally eighteen major Puranas, known as the Maha Puranas, and a large number of minor Puranas. Each Purana is attributed to a sage named Vyasa. They are considered secondary scriptures in Hinduism, often serving to popularize Vedic ideas and myths through engaging narratives. The stories within the Puranas are often interpreted allegorically and are central to the devotional practices of many Hindus.

The content of the Puranas is diverse, with some focusing more on Vishnu, others on Shiva, and some on Brahma or Devi. They provide detailed accounts of rituals, festivals, and pilgrimage sites. The Puranic literature has had a profound and lasting influence on Indian culture, art, and philosophy, shaping the understanding and practice of Hinduism for centuries.