The Vayu-Purana
By Rajendra Chandra Hazra
Summary
The article argues that the Vayu‑Purana is perhaps the oldest of the surviving Mahapuranas. Citing references from the Mahabharata, the Harivamsa, Bana’s Harsacarita and Alberuni, it notes that these texts speak of a Purana proclaimed by Vayu. Many Purana lists substitute the term Saiva for Vayuviya, leading to confusion with the later Siva‑Purana, but the article explains that Vayuviya refers to the Saiva character of the Vayu‑Purana rather than a different work. The study compares passages of the Vayu‑Purana with verses quoted in other Puranas, Smrti digests and ritual manuals, identifying overlaps and variations. It analyses the Purana’s contents—creation myths, genealogies, dynastic histories, ritual prescriptions and geographical descriptions—and provides an appendix summarising chapter headings and their cross‑references. The author concludes that the extant Vayu‑Purana comprises an ancient core supplemented by later additions. Its early composition and Saiva orientation make it an important source for the history of Saivism and for reconstructing India’s mytho‑historical traditions.
Conclusion
By examining textual evidence and cross‑references, the article asserts the antiquity and importance of the Vayu‑Purana within the Purana corpus. Its identification with the Vayaviya or Saiva Purana clarifies historical confusion in Purana lists. The detailed comparison of verses with other texts shows how material was shared and adapted across traditions, while the chapter summaries provide a roadmap for further study. This work thus contributes to establishing the Vayu‑Purana as a key source for early Saivism and Indian mytho‑historical narratives.