Description
If you’re seeking to understand Hindu mythology beyond surface-level retellings, this reader offers carefully selected passages from the Sanskrit Puranas—the ancient foundational texts of Hindu philosophy and culture. Rather than simplified summaries, you get direct encounters with classical Sanskrit wisdom, translated accessibly for modern English readers. Whether you’re a student of Hindu studies, a spiritual seeker, or simply curious about India’s intellectual heritage, this 399-page anthology bridges the scholarly and accessible. Motilal Banarsidass, India’s most respected publisher of Hindu and Sanskrit texts, has curated readings that illuminate the mythology, cosmology, and ethics embedded in these timeless works. Perfect for anyone wanting authentic depth without academic overwhelm.
- Publisher : Motilal Banarsidass Publications (3 August 2015)
- Language : English
- Hardcover : 399 pages
- ISBN-10 : 8120839722
- ISBN-13 : 978-8120839724
- Item Weight : 562 g
- Country of Origin : India
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this different from other Hindu mythology books?
This is a direct reader of Sanskrit Puranas passages, not a retelling or interpretation. You’re reading curated selections from the original classical texts in English translation, curated by Motilal Banarsidass—India’s foremost publisher of authentic Hindu and Sanskrit literature. It offers scholarly rigor without being inaccessible.
Is this book suitable for beginners or only scholars?
It’s designed for both. The selections are curated for clarity and accessibility, making it ideal if you’re new to the Puranas but want authentic material. The 399-page format lets you read at your own pace, diving deeper as your comfort grows. No prior Sanskrit knowledge is required.
Which Puranas are covered in this reader?
The anthology includes selections from the major Puranas (the Rigveda Samhita, Mahabharata, Ramayana, Bhagavad Gita, and other foundational Hindu texts). The editor has chosen passages that best represent classical Hindu mythology, philosophy, and spiritual teachings.
Can I use this book for academic study or is it casual reading?
Both. The 399-page reader works well for casual spiritual interest, college coursework in religious studies, and serious independent research. Motilal Banarsidass publishes materials trusted by Indian universities and scholars, so you can cite it in academic work.
Is this a complete translation of the Puranas?
No—this is a curated reader, meaning selected excerpts from various Puranas. Complete Puranas translations are much longer. This anthology is ideal if you want to sample classical Hindu texts, understand key themes, and explore without committing to massive volumes.
