Bṛhannāradīya Purāṇa

The Bṛhannāradīya Purāṇa is one of the eighteen minor Purāṇas, attributed to the sage Nārada and devoted to the glories of the name of Vishnu (nāma-saṅkīrtana).

Overview

The text is a major source for the theology of the holy name (nāma) in Vaiṣṇava tradition. It teaches that the chanting of Vishnu’s names is the most effective means of liberation in the Kali Yuga. It contains approximately 12,000 verses.

Content and Structure

The Bṛhannāradīya Purāṇa emphasizes the power of the divine name over all other forms of worship and ritual. It catalogs the various names of Vishnu and their spiritual benefits, and narrates stories of devotees who attained liberation through name-recitation. The text also contains sections on dharma, pilgrimage, and the glories of various Vaiṣṇava sacred sites.

Significance

The text is significant for its contribution to the bhakti (devotional) movement, particularly the practice of nāma-saṅkīrtana (congregational chanting of the divine name) that became central to the Gauḍīya Vaiṣṇava tradition and the Hare Krishna movement.

Verification Notes

• Classified as an Upa-purāṇa (minor Purāṇa).
• Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).