Introduction to “Sankshipta Garud Puran” (Hindi) – Published by Gita Press, Gorakhpur

 

The “Sankshipta Garud Puran” (Concise Garuda Purana) published by Gita Press, Gorakhpur, is a simplified and abridged version of the ancient Hindu scripture Garuda Purana, composed in Hindi for easy understanding by the general public. This sacred text, attributed to Lord Vishnu and narrated to Garuda (His divine vehicle), holds deep significance in Sanatan Dharma, especially in matters related to life, death, and the afterlife.

The Sankshipta edition captures the core teachings and essential chapters of the original Purana, including:

• The journey of the soul after death
• Rituals and duties related to death and Shraddha (ancestral rites)
• Descriptions of Yama Loka (the realm of Yama, the god of death)
• The importance of Dharma (righteous conduct) and consequences of karma
• Spiritual wisdom to help a person lead a righteous and meaningful life

This book is commonly read during the period of mourning and also studied to understand the mysteries of life, death, rebirth, and liberation (moksha). With clear Hindi translation and commentary, it serves as a spiritual guide for both householders and seekers.

 

Key Topics Covered in Sankshipta Garud Puran:

1. Dialogue Between Lord Vishnu and Garuda:

• The scripture begins with Garuda’s questions about life, death, the soul, and liberation.
• Lord Vishnu’s answers form the foundation of the teachings.

2. Journey of the Soul After Death:

• Describes what happens immediately after death.
• The path of the soul (aatma) from the body to Yama Loka (the world of the god of death).
• Details about Chitragupta, Yama’s assistant who records every karma.

3. Karma and Its Consequences:

• Explanation of how good and bad deeds affect the soul’s future.
• The idea of paap (sin) and punya (merit).
• How one’s deeds shape the afterlife and next birth.

4. Hell (Naraka) and Punishments:

• Descriptions of various types of Narakas (hells) where souls are sent based on their sins.
• Symbolic and vivid illustrations of the sufferings faced by sinful souls.

5. Rituals After Death:

• Importance of performing antyeshti sanskar (last rites).
• Significance of shraddha, pinda daan, and tarpana
• How these rites help the soul attain peace and progress toward liberation.

6. The Importance of Dharma:

• Stresses the need for truthfulness, charity, devotion, and righteous living.
• Encourages readers to live with compassion, discipline, and devotion to God.

7. Path to Moksha (Liberation):

• Ways to overcome the cycle of birth and death.
• Role of bhakti (devotion), jnana (knowledge), and vairagya (detachment) in attaining moksha.

 

This condensed version is designed for easy reading and understanding, especially during times of mourning or when reflecting on deeper spiritual truths. It is often read on the 13th day (tehravin) after someone’s passing and during Pitru Paksha.