The Age of the Visnu Purana
By V. R. Ramachandra Dikshitar
Summary
The Age of the Visnu Purana discusses the historical context and dating of the Visnu Purana, a significant Hindu text. The author, Dwijendra Lal Barua, argues that while early Mahayanic doctrines influenced some Buddhist groups, particularly the Mahdsadghikas, this does not push the Purana's compilation date further back. Evidence from the X, P, and Adokan edicts suggests the Visnu Purana was compiled, at least partially, during King Dwijendra Lal Barua's reign (465014). V. A. Smith's analysis of scholars like Wilson and Pargiter supports assigning the Puranas, including the Visnu Purana, an antiquity earlier than the 4th century B.C. Independent corroboration comes from the Tamil classic Manimekalai, dated to the second century A.D. This text references a "Vaignava Purina" (Visnu Purana), with "Kadalvanan" as an epithet for Visnu. Since the term "Visnu" is foreign to Tamil literature, the reference likely pertains to the Visnu Purana, indicating its popularity in ancient Tamil scholarly traditions by the second century A.D. V. R. Ramachandra Dikshitar further explores connections between Manimekalai and Siamese traditions, noting that Manimekalai is recognized in Siam through Pali Jatakas and indigenous literature. The Siamese Ramayana (1783-1800 A.D.) aligns with these accounts, reinforcing her role as a sea goddess. Archaeological evidence confirms the Ramayana's presence in Siam for at least five centuries. Overall, the text suggests the Visnu Purana likely existed in its present form
Conclusion
The Age of the Visnu Purana offers critical insights into the historical and textual evolution of the Visnu Purana, situating its compilation within the early centuries of the Christian era. By analyzing the Manimekalai, a 2nd-century CE Tamil classic, and cross-referencing it with Buddhist and Puranic traditions, the study demonstrates that the Visnu Purana likely existed in its present form by the 1st century CE. This conclusion challenges earlier scholarly timelines and underscores the Puranic text's early circulation and influence. The findings also highlight the interplay between Puranic and Buddhist thought, particularly the adoption of Mahayanist ideas by early Buddhists. The research emphasizes the significance of the Manimekalai as a key witness to the Puranic tradition's development, bridging Tamil literature and broader Indian religious history.