Studies in the Epics and Puranas c4: Foreword
Studies in the Epics and Purāṇas c4
- Language
- English
Foreword
c4.1
The Purāṇas occupy a unique position in Indian literature, both sacred and secular. After the Mahābhārata they have been the main sources of inspiration in the life of our people for over 1500 years.
c4.2
Composed at different times, they not only contain, as is now acknowledged, valuable historical material, but also canons relating to several spheres of art and life. If the materials relating to social life, century after century, found scattered in the different Purāṇas, are properly studied, they will throw considerable light on the social evolution of the country during the early centuries of the Christian era.
c4.3
By their investing the shrines and sacred places with religious significance, the Purāṇas have enabled our people to maintain unimpaired the sense of the unity of India; of the continuity of her cultural life; of the inevitability of its destiny. A detailed and thorough study of the Purāṇas requires to be made. Dr. Pusalker has made a special study of them. His section on Traditional History in the Vedic Age volume of the History and Culture of the Indian People is a notable contribution in reconstructing the past in the light of the historical materials found in the Purāṇas.
c4.4
This book brings into one volume articles on Epics and the Purāṇas written by Dr. Pusalker from time to time. Besides throwing light on important problems connected with the Purāṇas, they have the merit of being characterised by thoroughness and sanity of outlook.
c4.5
This volume, therefore, will be a useful addition to the Book University and will help the reader in appreciating the strength which lies behind Indian Culture.
c4.6
Naini Tal, Sept. 14, 1955.
c4.7
K. M. MUNSHI
Linked texts (1)
- Mahābhārata — Vyāsa, Sanskrit