The Brihan Naradiya Purana, classified among the minor puranas and dating back to around 900 CE, stands as a sectarian work associated with the Vaishnava schools. In one of its printed versions, the purana comprises 3600 verses divided into 38 chapters. At times, it has been regarded as the initial segment of the Naradiya Purana itself.
Within the Brihan Naradiya Purana, various significant
themes are explored, including –
- the praise of Vishnu and bhakti,
- the geography of Bharatavarsha,
- the story of Sagara,
- Ganga Mahatmya,
- religious vows and rites (Vratas),
- Varnashrama Dharmas, and
- the rituals of Shraddha (death ceremonies).
Hindu Puranas serve diverse purposes, acting as amplifiers
and expositors of the truths found in the Vedas. They provide glimpses into
contemporary history and culture, prescribing a code of conduct for the
societal welfare. Often, these texts offer detailed accounts of sciences such
as town-planning, architecture, sculpture, medical sciences, and religious
rites, driven by the aspiration for worldly well-being, as part of their
educational role for the public.
Traditionally, Puranas are divided into two categories: the
Mahapuranas and the Upapuranas. Each group is believed to consist of 18 works,
all traditionally ascribed to Sage Veda Vyasa.