Purana, Sarg aur Srishti‑Vikas
By Sunita Kumari
Summary
This article delves into Puranic cosmology, focusing on how Hindu Puranas describe the process of sarga (creation) and the evolution of the universe. The author reviews the doctrine that there are several types of creation: primary, secondary, tertiary and cyclical. Drawing from texts such as the Visnu Purana and Bhagavata Purana, the article explains how the unmanifest prakriti transforms into mahat‑tattva, ahamkara and tanmatras. These produce the five gross elements which combine to form the cosmos. The author examines the role of deities in this process, highlighting narratives describing the evolution of species, the manifestation of time and space and the appearance of human society. The article compares these mythological accounts with philosophical interpretations from Samkhya and Vedanta schools, noting similarities and differences. It argues that the Puranas use allegory and symbol to convey profound metaphysical truths; for example, the churning of the cosmic ocean represents the interaction of purusa and prakriti.
Conclusion
The author concludes that Puranic stories of creation are not mere fantasy but symbolic narratives conveying metaphysical insights. By describing multiple layers of creation and emphasising the interplay of divine consciousness and primordial matter, the Puranas offer a holistic view of cosmic evolution. Understanding these narratives can enrich one’s appreciation of Hindu philosophy and its integration of myth and metaphysics.