Bhagavata Purana Exploring Cosmology, Bhakti, and Indian Knowledge Systems

Introduction

The Bhagavata Purana is celebrated as the “Ideal Purana,” epitomizing the essence of Purana literature. Its expansive narrative covers cosmology, theology, philosophy, and the Bhakti tradition, making it a vital source for understanding Indian religious and philosophical thought. This course introduces learners to the intricate layers of the Bhagavata Purana, examining its historical significance, conceptual framework, and the evolution of the Bhagavata tradition.

Course Objectives

1. To introduce the concept of the Purana and its various classifications
2. To explore the philosophical significance of the Bhagavata Purana as the “Ideal Purana”
3. To analyze the cosmological and avatāra concepts within the text
4. To understand the Purana’s role in shaping the Bhakti tradition
5. To study the social, environmental, and knowledge-based aspects of the Bhagavata Purana

Course Outcomes

By the end of the course, learners will:

1. Gain a deep understanding of the Bhagavata Purana’s structure and themes
2. Comprehend the philosophical underpinnings of Purana literature
3. Be able to critically analyze the concept of avatāras in relation to cosmology
4. Appreciate the Bhagavata Purana’s influence on the Bhakti movement and its cultural impact
5. Understand the Purana’s contribution to various Indian Knowledge Systems

Course Syllabus

Module 1: Bhagavata Purana as the Ideal Purana

• Concept of Purana, Maha Purana, Ideal Purana
• Philosophical significance of the Ideal Purana
• Bhagavata Purana’s unique characteristics

• Concept of avatāras and its elucidation in the Bhagavata
• Avatāra-based divisions of the text
• Avatāra and Cosmology

Module 3: Bhagavata as Bhagavān

• Exploring the “avatāra vacuum” and the Purana’s origin
• Authorial identification and the empathy narrative
• Impact of narrative singing on spiritual vacuum filling

• Historical antiquity of the term “Bhagavata” and the Bhagvata tradition
• Evolution and spread of the Bhagavata tradition
• Bhagavata Purana as a text about Bhagavatas and the movement it represents

Module 5: Bhagavata as Rasa 

• Vedakalpavriksha imagery: the juicy fruit of the Veda-tree
• Experiential ecstatic reading of the Bhagavata
• Bhagavata’s role in theorizing Bhakti Rasa

Module 6: The Bhagavata Purana as a Source of Indian Knowledge Systems

• Recognition of Bhagavata Cosmology in contemporary discourse
• Environmentalism in the Bhagavata
• Bhakti-centric social theory and its implications

Module 7: The Bhagavata Purana as Vedanta

• The concept of Puranas as Vedaartha Upabrimhana
• Trivarga Puranas and Moksha shaastra Purana , Bhagavata as Moksha Shaastra
• Bhagavata and the different schools of Vedanta

Module 8 : Bhagavata as a living Tradition

• Regional Indian language versions and variations of Bhagavata Purana
• Bhagavata variant narratives and Bhagavata based narratives and other folk and tribal lore
• Bhagavata deities and their worship traditions across India

Reading List

• Bhagavata Purana (select translations and editions)

Course Features

• Live Interactive Sessions: Participate in live lectures and discussions with ample opportunities for Q&A.
• Flexible Learning: Access class recordings and materials at your convenience for asynchronous learning.
• Certificate of Completion: Demonstrate your new knowledge with a certificate upon successfully completing the course.

*Important Enrollment Notice: Please note that this course requires a minimum of 15 registrations to commence. If the required number of students is not met, enrolled participants will be notified promptly and provided with options for a full refund or alternative courses.