Genealogies of Gods, Sages & Kings

Description of Kailasa Suta said: Kailasa is the abode of the are ofmeritorious souls. It has isolated is full of vegetation. It has the lustre summits, the trans-Himalayan Kailasa range. The climatic conditions of seem favourable for vegetation and human habitation. 268 Vayu Furana kJ 11* t

The aerial chariot Puspaka, decorated in jewels, is there. It is very charming and endowed with all desirable qualities.

As quick as the mind, it can reach any desired goal. It is decorated with clusters of gold pieces. It is the vehicle of Kubera, king of Yaksas.

Lord Kubera the companion of Mahadeva lives there. He is the king of Yaksas revered and honoured by all living beings.

Kubera, excellent among Devas, lives there along with Apsaras-s, Yaksas, Gandharvas, Siddhas and Caranas.

Similarly this mount Kailasa is the abode of Indra, Agni, Yama, Devas and Apsaras-s where Kubera, the Lord of Yaksas, is the ruler.

The attendants of Devas first pay their respects to the king of Yaksas and then proceed to their respective lords.

18-28 269 golden lotuses with sweet smell, touch etc., great blue lotuses with leaves and petals as blue as lapis lazuli. The reservoir is beautified with lilies and lotuses of great fragrance. It appears splendid with the womenfolk of Yaksas, Gandharvas and Apsaras-s. The waters of the reservoir are used by Devas, Danavas, Gandharvas, Yaksas, Raksasas and Pannagas (serpents) .

Similarly, on the auspicious summit of Himavat abounding in living beings, there is a play-ground called Pandusila, of the destroyer of Krauhca.

On its beautiful eastern ridge is the residence of Siddhas. It is known as Kalapagrama.

O Brahmanas, now listen to the special features of the western lofty mountain Nisadha1 , as it is being narrated wholly and precisely.

On the extensive central summit embellished with gold and minerals is the brightly illuminated abode of Visnu. It is resorted to by multitudes of Siddhas, sages, Gandharvas and crowds of Yaksas, Apsaras-s.

There the great lord, the yellow-robed Visnu, the bes tower of boons, the eternal maker of the worlds, is served by Siddhas.

South, of the same mountain with many abodes of Daityas, there is an inaccessible city within the (belly of) the mountain, with only a cave as the main entrance.

Similarly, on the western peak, on a lofty rock of Parijata, there are flourishing cities of Devas, Danavas and Nagas.

On the great ridge of the mountain, there is the rock called Somasila where the moon descends on Parvan days.

The sages, Kinnaras and Gandharvas worship the glorious lord of stars, dispeller of darkness, the praiseworthy (uncensured) lord, the moon.

North of the same mountain, there is the spot known as Brahmaparsva. It is the abode of Brahma, lord of Devas, It is well-known in heaven.

Siddhas, Yaksas, Gandharvas and Danavas worship the self-born lord with sacrifices, worships and prostrations.

Similarly, the abode of the Fire-god is famous in all the worlds. There the embodied god Fire is worshipped by Siddhas and Caranas.

Similarly, on the excellent mountain Trisrnga, to the north , is the city Hemacarita, well-known in the three worlds. This mountain is frequented by sages and Siddhas. It is the abode of different living beings .

There are three abodes of the three chief deities. O Brahmanas, the- abode of Narayana is on the eastern peak, that of Brahma is in the middle and that of Siva is on the west.

These mighty lords of Devas, worthy of worship, are revered by Daityas, Danavas, Gandharvas, Yaksas, Raksasas and Nagas.

Here and there, on the excellent mountain Trisrnga and adjoining places, are the beautiful cities of Yaksas, Gandharvas and Nagas.

The fierce lord of Nagas, invincible Canda, with a hundred heads, the blessed one marked by Visnu’s discus, resides here. There eight wonderful mountains are known as Devaparvatas.

The circle of mountains of the Meru (region ) is known as the Siddhaloka. It has various resorts for shelter. Meritorious persons frequent the place.

The images of Siddhas of no fierce activities, stand in the middle. That place (also) is known as heaven. Its order is thus stated.

Here the Lord of Wealth has eight treasures : 2 Padma, Mahapadma, Makara, Kacchapa, Kumuda, Sahkha, Nila and Nandana. These being inexhaustible, divine great Treasures hoarding jewels are kept in the assembly-hall.

The worlds ofBrabma, Devas, Asuras and human beings are three. That which is heated by the moon and the sun is known as the world (the earth). It has the qualities of smell, colour, taste, sound and touch. This lotus-shaped universe is known as Lotus in the Vedas. This is the accepted order in the Puranas as well.

The four big continents inhabited by many castes are known as Bhadra, Bharata, Western Ketumala (i.e. Ketumala to the western side) and the NorthernKuru. They are the abodes of meritorious people. O Brahmana, this earth, in the shape of a lotus, and divided into four continents and many sub- continents, has thus been described by me. mountains, forests, and groves is called Padma (lotus-shaped) . It is very extensive.

This earth is declared as having four Dvipas. It is inhabited by people of all castes, statures, complexions and powers. They partake of different kinds of food and beverages. They wear different sorts of dress and ornaments. They have different emotional reactions. 274 Vayu Purana

On its interior peak embellished with different minerals, on the ridge of the Nisadha mountain where the rocky surface is smooth and charming, is the delightful city of Raksasas (called) Ulanghis. The city extends to thirty Yojanas. There are series of gardens there. The city cannot be thwarted by enemies. It is full of (Raksasas) as cruel as poisonous snakes. The palaces have golden turrets and pinnacles. The archways are made of molten gold. There are hundreds of lofty buildings with sloping roofs, in the main streets and thorough-fares. The mansions and palaces (in it) are incomparable. They are embellished with pieces of molten gold. It is very extensive and always joyous. 1 —

Similarly, to the north, on the divine mountain Jarudhi, which abounds in peaks and which is resorted to by Siddhas and sages, are the cities ofYaksas, Kinnaras, Gandharvas, Nagas, Raksasas and Daityas in hundreds and thouands.

On the central summit of that mountain resorted to by Siddhas, Devas and sages, embellished by jewels and min-

Thus, the earth is full of cities, abodes, excellent and sacred lakes of holy waters, silver and jewel mountains having the lustre of gems, mountains of yellow orpiment, vermilion and gold, vast expanses of pure red arsenic shining in their red hue, and mountains of precious stones with minerals of variegated colours. There are very extensive mountains with the rivers, caves, ridges and precipices of variegated colours and many shapes.

These mountains are the abodes of Daityas, Raksasas, saints, Kinnaras, serpents, Gandharvas of wonderful features, Siddhas, Caranas. These are resorted to by Gandharvas and divine damsels. They are extensive and are inhabited by meritorious persons. They appear like filaments of lotuses.

The great and charming water-reservoir ‘Mandakini 53 is there. It has abundance of water. Its embankment has steps plated with gold and studded with gems. There are city was either on or near the Kailasa peak. nine treasures of Kubera are enumerated (MW 548 C) . Kharva from the list in MW is not mentioned here. The geographer M. Ali regards these ‘Treasure-houses’ as the minor peaks of Kailasa (AGP 57) .

In the central ridge, as beautiful as Kunda flower, there is the invincible city of the noble-souled Kubera,1 the presiding deity of wealth. It is a hundred Yojanas in length and fifty Yojanas in breadth. It is beautified with a series of big mansions, set in diverse ways in gold and silver. It is very extensive, affluent and joyful. There is a charming assembly-hall in the centre, embellished with variegated pieces of gold. It is known as Vipuld because it abounds in archways and pillars.

There are hundreds and thousands of hermitages of the sages Mrkanda, Vasistha, Bharata, Nala, Visvamitra, Uddalaka and others, of severe penance and purified souls, on the mountain Himavat. This excellent mountain, the abode of many Siddhas, is decorated by their temples and holy spots. Yaksas and Gandharvas move about here and there. Several groups of Mlecchas too live there. It abounds in mines ofjewels. It is resorted to by different animals. It is the source of origin of thousands of rivers.

The Divine Rivers Suta said : The divine rivers of holy waters have sprung from excellent lakes. 1 These have great volume of waters . Listen to them in due order.

What is called the moon (Soma) of the ocean of the firmament, the support of all living beings, is the reservoir of nectar for Devas. 1 . Purana writers believed in the following notions about river systems in general :

The celestial river of sacred waters springs from it (the reservoir or nectar) . That river of clear transparent water flows through the sky through the seventh path of the wind.1

A river along with tributaries is treated as one single river.

It turns back on reaching the mass of brilliance. It is resorted to by luminary bodies. It extends to the full length of the sky, with thousands of crores of stars.

While the lordly elephant of lord Indra moves about in the firmament, he sportively agitates the water within it.

When Siddhas pass through the sky in their aerial chariots (great many in number) , they have a sip in the sacred and healing water of this river .

Just as the sun revolves everyday, so this river urged bv the wind, flows through various places.

It extends to eighty-four Yojanas allround. It circumambulates the Meru with great velocity.

The water currents are split by the fiery wind and the river falls upon the four northern peaks of Meru.

After emerging on the excellent sides of ridges of these peaks of Meru, the waters, divided into four, flow thus.

After flowing through the supportless firmament for sixty thousand Yojanas, the glorious river falls through the four sides of Meru.2 bases (feet) of Meru, falls again on the eastern Mandara.

After coining out from Arunoda, the gently-flowing river falls on the mountain Sitanta (Kashghar range) abounding in beautiful fountains. This mountain is the abode of( multitudes) of Siddhas.

The sacred and excellent river is called Sxta. Being held within the various groves and bushes, it is further divided into several branches.

From the peek of Sltanta,1 it falls on the mountain Sukunja. 1 From that mountain, it falls on the the mountain Sumanjasa. 1

Therefrom it falls on the mount Malyavan2 and comes to Vaikanka and from Vaikahka it passes to Maniparvata and then falls on the mountain Rsabha full of caves.

Piercing through thousands of mountains thus, the river falls on the mountain Jathara resorted to by Siddhas.

From there the river again falls on the Devakuta mountain, the lower part of which extends upto the sea. In this way, the river gradually reaches the plains.

It is known in the worlds as the Alakananda. It enters the northern lake Manasa which is as clear as the minds of Devas.

From the Manasa lake, the river flows to the beautiful Trisikhara, the lord of mountains. From the summit of the mountain Trikuta, it falls on the peak of Kalinga ( ?) mountain.

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With its waters augmented by tributaries, this auspicious river denudes thousands of mountains. It then flows at full speed and falls on the great mountain Pariyatra.

Flowing rapidly with many rivulets flowing into it, and dashing against many bunds, the river falls on the ridges of Sankhakuta.

Falling down the ridges of Sankhakuta, it proceeds to Vrsa Parvata. From Vrsa Parvata, it flows then to Vatsagiri and then to Nagasaila.

After piercing (forcing its way) through thousands of mountains thus, the great river reaches Trispiga, the boundary mountain with many peaks.

In this way the four great rivers of pure waters, falling down the ridges of great mountains, flow into the four directions.

Thus the earth of vast expanse I have almost explained to you. It is surrounded on all sides by Meru and other mountains.

The earth has four great continents, four forests of sports, four great trees as the four land-marks and four excellent : lakes.

It has four great mountains and has four serpents for support, eight superior mountains and eight inferior.

The eastern branch of the river flows over the Mandara which is the abode of Devas and all the groups of Siddhas, which has many rivulets, caves, golden and variegated lands, ridges. It flows with the crystal clear water that subdues the arrogance and valour of the side-bunds. It flows round the beautiful Caitraratha overflowing the path. This river of the firmament then enters the excellent lake Arunoda (Kara Kul, NE Pamirs) .

Falling from the ridges of Trisrnga inhabited by blessed people this river of pure water falls off the ridges of Meru, and urged by the wind flows to the excellent mountain Viruddha. After irrigating the mountain the river flows into the western ocean. 75-77* On the wonderful great foot of Meru inhabited by living beings, on the northern mountain Suparsva whose sides are the sources of gold, the river falls into the bowels of caves* 280 Vayu Purana into various divisions and descends to the earth with wonderful flowery rafts. Irrigating the Northern Kuru region, the delightful auspicious river runs through the middle of the continent and flows into the northern ocean.

From Nagasaila, it reaches the excellent mountain Nila, the Varsa mountain. From Nila, it flows to Kapinjala, and then the river flows to Indranila, thereafter it flows to Mahanila, and Hemaspiga. From Hemasrnga it flows to Sveta, and from Sveta to Sunaga. From Sunaga, it flows to Sataspiga. Then the great river flows from Sataspiga to the flower-carpeted Puskara. From Puskara to Dviraja, the great mountain of great strength (Sumakdbala) . From there, it flows to Varaha Parvata and the mountain Mayura. From the mountain Mayura the rapid river flows to Ekasikhara bedecked with caves and crevasses, and then to the peak of the Jarudhi mountain.

Then it drops from the ridges of the peaks resorted to by Devas and sages, with its waters scattered by flowery rafts. The blessed river irrigates and circumambulates the forest of the Sun-god which is the sylvan place of origin of variegated jewels. It then falls into the sacred lake Mahabhadra resorted to by blessed people. The beneficent white river is called Bhadrasoma. It flows rapidly and its shores are far apart. The great and holy river Mahabhadra flows thereafter.

The great river flows through the supportless auspicious firmament for a distance of sixty thousand Yojanas, throwing cascades of water like a garland being scattered. It fells from the peak of Meru, its waters being urged by the wind. Being cast in the sky, it takes a curved {circle-like body). It fells at the foot of Mem on the northern mountain Suparsva which

It glides among fountains, streams, caves and ridges. With numerous waves, it wanders through its many bowels. Its current is impeded by several rocks and boulders accidentally felling therein and its waters are split in various ways. It descends on the plains (the earth). The blessed river then irrigates the great continent Ketumala, populated by Mleccha tribes, and falls into the western sea.

(The river flows from one mountain to another:) Thereafter the river flows from mountain Sikhi to mount Kanka, thence to Vaidurya, then to mount Kapila and thence to Gandhamadana. From that excellent mountain it flows to Pinjara, the splendid mountain; from Pinjara it flows to Sarasa and from there it flows to Kumudacala mountain. It flows to the mountains Madhuman, Jana, Mukuta. From the peak of Mukuta, it flows to the great mountain Krsna, from Krsna it flows to the great mountain Sveta, served by (other) great mountains. From Sveta it ultimately comes down to thousand-peaked Sailendra, the lord of mountains.

From Sitoda is goes to mount Supaksa. Again this river of holy clear water which is used by divine sages, falls from the peak of Supaksa. Thence this river of blessed waters falls on the Sikhi mountain.

This blessed river of many flowers and fruits irrigates the great forests of Devabhraja, Mahabhraja and Vaibhraja. Decorated by various forests and circumambulating the mountain, it enters the western lake of pure waters, Sitoda.

The river (Alakananda) that flows over Gandhamadana, the lord of mountains in the south, has many waterfalls and splashes waves and ripples in various ways. It then irrigates the Nandana park, the pleasant resort of Devas. This blessed river then circumambulates the forests of Gandhamadana.

Thus flooding through thousands of valleys, hundreds of mountains, strange forests, a variety of lakes, the river, creating eddies in its expanses and joined by thousands oftributaries, flows over the great eastern continent3 Bhadrasva and falls into the eastern sea.

There is a great divine Panasa (Jack-fruit) tree there. It has six tastes. It is the son of Brahma, capable of moving about according to its pleasure. It has the speed of mind. It is veritable Isvara himself. Imbibing its juice, the people there live for ten thousand years.

On the eastern side of Malyavat, there is another big boulder. In length and width, it is like the former one.

The people of the area are called Bhadrasvas. They remain always joyous in mind. There is a splendid forest of huge trees called Kdldmra ( black mangoes) .

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Description of Bkadrasva Suta said : Near Gandhamadana there is a large and bulky boulder above, thirty-four thousand Yojanas long, and thirtytwo thousand Yojanas wide, east to west. The residents of this area perform auspicious rites. They are well-known as Ketumalas. The men are black in complexion. They are vigorous and powerful. The women have the lustrous complexion of the petals of a lotus. All of them have pleasing appearances.

Description of Ketumdla Suta said : The natural characteristics of the Bhadrasvas have been narrated precisely. Now Listen to a detailed description of Ketumala. 2

The seven ranges ofKulaparvatas are Visala, Kambala, Krsna, Jayanta, Hariparvata, Asoka and Vardhamana.

There are other hills by hundreds, thousands and erores of other massive and extensive mountains, the offshoots of the seven ranges ofKulaparvatas.

In and near them, there are lands and kingdoms where people of various castes and creeds dwell and which are governed by many rulers.

They are famous on the earth, well-known by their names and valour. They are embellished (as it were) by the praises of their exploits ( sung) by the people of the country they occupy.

Their kingdoms are established on even and uneven lands among mountains. They are known by their own respective and varied names.

These blessed people drink the holy waters of the river Suvapra resorted to by Nagas.

The land is flourishing with various countries. It is beautified by great rivers. It is full of many gems and jewels. It is perpetually rejoicing and splendid.

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The nationalities are: 1 Gomanusya, Kopataka, Tatsukhas, Bhramara, Yutha, Maheya, Acalakutaka, Sumaula, Stavaka, Kraunca, Krsnahga, Manipunjaka, Kutakambala, Mausxya, Samudrantaraka, Karambhava, Kuca, Sveta, Suvarnakataka, Subha, Svetanga, Krsnapada, Viha, Kapilakarnika, Atyakarala, Gojvala, Hxnana, Vanapataka, Mahisa, Kumudabha, Karavata, Sahotkaca, Sukanasas, Mahanasa, Vanasa, Gajabhumika, Karanja, Mahjama, Vaha, Kiskindi, Pandubhumika, Kubera, Dhumaja, Janga, Vanga, Rajiva, Kokila, Vacahga, Mahahga, Madhaureya, Surecaka, Pittala, Kacala, Sravana, Mattakasika, Godava, Bakula, Vahga, Vangaka, Modaka and Kala.

They also drink the waters of the rivers Kambala, TamasI, Syama, Sumedha, Bakula, Vikxrna, Sikhimala, Darbhavati, Bhadra, Sukanadx, Palasa, Bhxma, Prabhafxjana, KancI, Kusavatx, Daksa, Sakavatx, Punyoda, Gandravatx, Sumula, Rsabha, Samudramala, Campavatx, Ekaksa, Puskala, Vaha, Suvarna, Nandinx, Kalindx, Bharat!, Sxtoda, Patika, Brahm! , Visala, PIvarf, Kumbhakarx, Rusa, Mahis!, Manusi and Danda. These are excellent rivers frequented by Devas, Siddhas and sages. Their waters are holy and auspicious and they dispel sins .

It behoves you to hear in detail the description of the seven principal mountain ranges, countries and rivers in particular, situated in all the quarters to the west of the western lordly mountain Nisadha.

Description of Bharatavarsa Samsapdyana said : O holy lord, the two continents in the east and the west have been narrated to us. Now tell us about the people dwelling in the northern and southern continents as well as those on the mountains. Suta said :

South of the Sveta mountain and north of the Nila, there is a sub-continent called Ramanaka1 where human beings are born.

Animals (thereof) fulfill desires in all seasons. People are free from the stink of old age (They do not become senile or decrepit). They are a good-looking people descended from a noble, fair-complexioned race.

There is a great divine JVyagrodha tree (the Indian fig tree) called Rohina. The people subsist on the juice of its fruit.

Those excellent people are always delightful and happy. They live for eleven thousand five hundred years.

To the north of the Sveta and to the south of the mountain called Srngavan, there is a sub-continent called Hiranyata2 {Hiranvat in A) where a river Hairanyatl (.Hairanvati in A) flows.

Very strong and brilliant men are born there who are Sattvic in quality, bestower of desires in all seasons. They are rich and comely in appearance.

These people of unlimited splendour live upto twelve thousand five hundred years.

In that country there is the great Lakuca tree (Breadfruit tree) yielding six tastes. Men maintain themselves on the juice of its fruits. JO. There the Srngavan mountain has three great and lofty peaks. Out of them one is full (lit. consists) of diamonds, the second, of gold and the third, full of all kinds of precious stones. They are embellished with mansions.

On the southern shore of the northern sea is the holy country of the Kurus1 which is resorted to by the Siddhas.

The trees there provide sweet fruits and flowers throughout the year. They put forth clothes and ornaments along with fruits.

Many are the charming trees that bear fruits desired by all. They exude excellent honey of exquisite taste, colour and fragrance.

There fare other charming trees called Ksirin, They always yield milk like nectar yet presenting six types of tastes.

The entire ground is full of jewels, even the fine sand being gold which is pleasant to touch. It is auspicious, free from impurities and thorns.

Descending from the world of Devas, people are born as auspicious men. They are born in fair complexioned families and have perpetual youth.

The charming women give birth to twins who imbibe the nectarinejuice of the Ksirin (milk-yielding) tree.

The twins are born simultaneously and grow up together. They are of similar forms, traits and conduct of life. They also die together.

Like the couples of Cakravaka birds, they are affectionate to each other. They enjoy life, not knowing disease, sorrow or suffering.

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They never grow old. They have perpetual youth They are fond, affectionate and comely in appearance. Thev live upto many thousand years. y

They do not procreate nor do they decline in numbers Pairs are born of the tree unlike each other but befitting each other.

They are extremely happy, devoid of all miseries. Being passionately attached, they do not observe (the restrictions of) Dharma. For Dharma grows from misery.

The excellent river of many waves, Candravarta flows from this mountain. It is full of pure and holy water, bright like the moon’s rays.

There is the excellent abode of the moon, the lord of stars. The moon, the lord of planets, always resides there.

There is a famous mountain known by the name of the moon. The great land called Candradvlpa is famous both in this world as well as in heaven.

All the people here shine like the moon. They resemble the moon, with their faces shining like the moon. They are free from dirt and consider the moon their deity.

The people there, are very virtuous, gentle, truthful and brilliant. Their conduct is good and their span of life extends to a thousand years.

The place is rich and abounds in foodgrains. It is ruled over by many kings. It is joyous, prosperous and beautiful on account of the great mountains.

There is a very splendid seat of Vayu there, embellished with various jewels. There, the embodied form of Vayu is worshipped always on Pawan days.

These are the natural characteristics of the countries in Bharata as seen by the knowers of the supreme truth. What else shall I narrate to you ?

When this was said by the intelligent son of Suta, the sages eager to listen to the sequal asked him thereafter. The Sages said :

The natural traits of the Kurus have been precisely recounted. Now I shall mention the features of Bharata. 1 Understand them.

With its diverse features giving rise to auspicious and inauspicious results, this sub-continent is in the middle to the north of the ocean and to the south of Himavat.

Since the country (Var$a) Is called Bharata the people are Bharatxs. Since Manu ruled over the people, he is called Bharata. 2 Etymoligically derived thus the Varsa (country) Is called Bharata.

It is from here alone that one goes to heaven or attains salvation. 3 The middle course— heaven as well as the end, the final emancipation —is attained from here. Rituals for human beings are not ordained anywhere else on earth,

There are stated to be nine divisions of this Bharata Varsa.4 Being separated by oceans, they are mutually inaccessible.

On the eas&S boundary are Kiratas and Yavanas at ' • ' $ %: , .7 the western boundary^ i||

Within it dwell Brahmanas, Ksattriyas and Vaisyas attending to saerift^^|i|’and trade respectively. The Sudras live in different par^y

There are nputual dealings among these based on virtue, wealth and love- The different castes are engaged in their own functions.

People perform the duties of the five stages of life, the fifth being that of Sankalpa. They possess the human tendency to endeavour to attain heaven and salvation.

He who conquers this ninth Dvipa entirely* along with the countries extending sideways, is declared an emperor ( Samrat) .

He who conquers this world is remembered as Samrat, the conquerer of Antariksa as Virdt, while the conquerer of the other world is called Sv&T&t' X shall explain this later on.

There are seven great mountain systems with excellent knot-like ridges in this Varsa. They are Mahendra, Malaya, Putra resion fM.Ali) . These are mere speculations of scholars. After discussing the regional classification (AGP 126-132), M.Ali comes to the following c onclusion : Indradvipa= the trans-Brahmaputra region. Kaseru= The coastal plain between the deltas of Godavari and Mahanadi. Tamravarna— The sector of Indian Peninsula south of Kaveri. Gabhastiman= The hilly belt between Narmada and Godavari. Saumya— The coastal belt west of Indus. Gandharva= The trans-Indus region. Varuna= The western coast of India.

There are other thousands of mountains adjacent to these. They are endowed with all qualities, and have broad and variegated summits.

There are other smaller mountains with thin population. The land strips between them have a mixed population consisting of Aryas and Mlecchas.

The rivers of the southern land rising from the slopes of Sahya mountains are the Godavari, Bhimarathi, KrsnavainL Vanjula, Tungabhadra, Suprayoga and Kaveri.

The rivers issuing from the Malaya mountains1 are Krtamala, Tamravarna, Puspajatl and Utpalavatl. All of them are very splendid. Their waters are very cool.

The rivers originating from Mahendra mountains2 are Trisama, Rtukulya, Xksula, Tridiva, Languliru and Vamsadhara.

The rivers issuing from the mountain Suktiman3 are Rsika, Sukumari, Mandaga, Mandavahini, Kupa and Palasinl.

All of them are sacred like Sarasvati. All of them flowing into theseaare (holy like) Ganga. These are the mothers of the world and are declared as removers of the sins of the world . Tapi (Tapti or Tapi), Payosni ( Pain-ganga—De, p. 150), Nirvindhya between Ujjain and Vetravati (in Meghaduta) (mod. Newuj), Nisadha (Sind, on this Narwar, the capital of Nisadhas was located). Venya ; ( Van-ganga), Vaitaranl (Baitarani), Kumudvati (Suvarnarekha), Toya (Brahmani), Mahagauri (Damodara). Durgd (difficult to cross) and anta-tila (full of rocks) are probably the adjectives of that wild river—AGP 120-121. Most of the rivers are known by their old names with a few modifications such as Bhimarathi (Bhlma), Krsna-vaini (also in inscriptions for mod. Krsna), Vangula (Manjira), Suprayoga (Vedavatl).

Now along the northern half of Sahya mountains where the river Godavari flows is the most delightful region within the whole of this earth.

Apagas, Alimadras, Tomaras, Hamsamargas, Kasmlras and Tanganas are the tribes of Kiratas.

These along with Culikas, Ahukas and Purnadarvas are the northern peoples. Now hear from me the people in the East.

Now the other people who dwell in the southern region1 are: Pandyas, Keralas, Gaulyas (Colas) , Kulyas, Setukas, Antargiri = R ajmaha] hills in Santhal Pargana, Bengal (De 8). But Sircar locates Antargiri and B ahirgiri towards the north of Assam. Vahgeyas= Bengal proper—the deltaic triangle between BhagirathiHooghly ( the main outlet of Ganga in ancient times) and Padma (AGP 151). Maladas—A Part of the district of Shahabad—the site of Visvamitra’s Asrama in Buxar (De, 100) ; Maida district of Bengal, Raj ashahi and West Dinajpur of Bengal (AGP, p. 151). The Bhargavas= Probably the same as Bhargava-Angaya (in AGP, p. 152) i.e. the Yamuna-Meghna Doab. The Pragjyotisas— Kamarupa Dist. in Assam. The Mundas = Chhota Nagpur, especially the Ranchi district (De, p. 134). The Videhas =Tirhut country between the Kosi and the Gandak to the north of the Ganga (De, p. 35). The Tamraliptakas—Tamluk in Midnapur district including Kontai (De, p.203) (AGP, p. 152). The Malas (The Mallas in Bd.P.)—The country round the Parasnath Hills (Part of Hazaribagh and Manbhum Districts ) . The Mallas were at Pavaand Kusinagara at the time of the Buddha (De, p, 123). The Magadhas ^ South Bihar. The Govindas or Gonarda (in Bd.P., Mt.P.)== De (p. 71 ) identifies it with Gonda in Oudh. 1* The following identifications are based on De, (page no. indicated in notes) and Sircar (GAMI). The Papdyas—Modem districts of Tinnevelly and Madura in Tamil Nadu (p. 147). The Caulas ( Colas ) == The Coromandal coast to the south of the Pennar including Tanj or ( p . 151). The Setukas=People of Setubandha, Rameshwar (Sircar p. 38). The Musikas— Travancore on the Malbar coast (p. 134). But Sircar (p. 36) suggests people living on the Muri river (in Nellore and Guntur dists., A.P.) The Vanava sikas= Banwasi in North Kanara Dist. Karnatak ( CGEIL p. 79). The Kingdom of the ancient Kadamba dynasties. The Maharastras— Roughly identified with Marathi speaking people. The Mahisakas— Southern Mysore (p. 120 ), also Sircar (p. 39). The Kalingas= South Orissa (Puri and Ganjam Districts ) —Sircar ( p. 39).

To the west of this western continent is the land called Bhadrakara four thousand Yojanas from the ocean. It is a circular zone ten thousand Yojanas in diameter. It looks splendid with different kinds of flowers.

The people living there have golden complexion. They are bedecked in gold. They are as refulgent as the immortal Devas. Their garments and garlands are of variegated colour. They are blessed, vigorous, joyous and truthful. They live up to five hundred years. They consider Vayu their deity. Suta said :

It extends to one thousand Yojanas in area and is full of fruits and flowers. It is fertile and flourishing. It is one hundred Yojanas in breadth and so much in height. There is an excellent mountain Kumudaprabha in its centre, inhabited by Siddhas and Caranas. It has various gems equal in lustre to the moon. These have all good traits and shine in their lnna r shape. There are lilies of diverse colours, parks and gardens of variegated hues. There are many rivulets and caves. It is decorated with great ridges, precipices, crevasses and bushy hedges.

To the southern side of Northern Kurus, there is the famous country called Candradvlpa1 shaped like’ the disc of the moon. It is at a distance of five thousand Yojanas beyond the region of gods. (Being a seaside land) it is ever decorated with garlands of sea waves and is resonant with many sounds.

The chief of them2 are the excellent mountain Mandara, Vaihara, Dardura, Kolahala, Surasa, Mainaka, Vaidyuta, Patandhama, Pandura, Gantuprastha, Krsnagiri, Godliana, Puspagiri, Ujjayanta, Raivataka, Sriparvata, Kara and Kutasaila.

The rivers rising from the foot of Himavat,3 of which those people drink the water are : Ganga, Sindhu* Sarasvatl, Satadru, Candrabhaga, Yamuna, Sarayu, Iravati, Vitasta, Vipasa, Devika, Kuhu, Gomati, Dhutapapa, Bahuda, Dysadvati, Kausiki, Trtiya, Niscira, Gandaki, Iksu and Lohita.

The riches are common to all. They do not have the sense of possession. There is no virtue, no vice, no sickness, no old age, no mental confusion, no feeling of exhaustion. On completing their full length of time, they disappear like bubbles of water.

O excellent one, it is in this Bharata country that the fourteen Manus, Svayambhuva and others, are born at the time of the creation of subjects. We wish to know this further. Please narrate. On hearing their words Suta Lomaharsana, well-versed in the Puranas and of pious mind, described this in detail to the

The branches and tributaries of these rivers are hundreds and thousands. The countries in Central Region (Madhyadesa) 1 are chiefly Kurupancalas, Salvas, Jangalas, Surasenas, Bhadrakaras, Bodhas, Satapathesvaras, Vatsas, Kisasnas, Kulyas, Kuntalas, Kasikosalas, Tilahgas in the borderland, Magadhas and Vrkas.

The rivers issuing from Pariyatra1 are: Vedasmrti, Vadavati, Vrtraghni, Sindhu, Varnasa, Candana, Satlra, Mahatl, Para, Carmanvati, Vidisa, Vetravatl, Sipra and AvantL

O excellent Brahmanas, in the sacred centre to the south of the southern mountain Himavat, extending from east t west is the Bharata sub-continent. It behoves you to listen now to the details of the countries in the Bharata Varsa and of the people there.

Th.ey J|ij^viPa’ Kaseru ’ Tamravarna, Gabhastiman, Nagadvjpa ojujnya, Gandharva and Varuna, This Bharata, the ninthj them’ is surrounded by the sea* From _ south to north it extends to a thousand Yojanas, from Kumar! to the source of Gauga. Sideways in the north it extends to nine thousand Yojanas. f v v r

Now I shall mention mountainous territories.1 These are : Nigarharas, Hamsamargas, Ksupanas, Tanganas, Khasas, Kusapravaranas, Hunas, Darvas, Hudakas, Trigartas, Malavas, Kiratas and Tamasas. The learned know of four ages in this Bharata, viz. Krta, Treta, Dvapara and Kali. I shall explain their natural features later. The Tosalas = The southern part of Kosala or Gorxdwan District around Tosali ( mod. Dhanti ) in Puri District (De, p. 43). The Kosalas =* Sircar identifies this with Daksina (Southern) Kosala — modern Raipur, Bilaspur and Sambalpur region (p. 43). The Traipuras == The region around Tewar. This covers present Jabalpur, parts of Mandla and Narasimhapur Districts. The Vaidikas== A misprint for Vaidisas: Eastern Malwa with Vidisa or Bhilasa as the capital (p. 43). The Tumuras= Modem Turman in Guna Dist., M.P.—(Sircar, p. 44). The Nisadhas=Marwar with Narwar as its capital (ibid). The Anupas= South Malwa country about Nimar (De, p. 8). The Tundikeras==The Narmada basin around the town Sainkheda (AGP 161). The Vitihotras^—The country around Satwar 30 miles north-west of Harda. It is bounded on the north-east and west by the Vindhyas and by the Narmada in the south. The Avantis— The country around Ujjain.

There is a heavenly city named Govardhana. 2 It was built by the king of Devas for Rama’s spouse. Trees and herbs were planted by the sage Bharadvaja for the sake of Rama’s spouse. He made this delightful wooded tract the private part of the palace.

Malavas, Karusas, Mekalas, Utkalas, Uttamarnas Dasarnas, Bhojas, Kiskindhakas, Tosalas, Kosalas, Traipuras, Vaidikas, Tumuras, Tumburas, Satsuras, Nisadhas, Anupas, Tundikeras, Vitihotras, Avantis. These are the kingdoms on the Vindhya mountains.

People in the east : 3 Andhravakas, Sujarakas, (2) The Vadhadhanas (Vatadhanas)==Prob. Waziristan. Butin Sircar (p. 32) the Panjab-Rajastan region. (3) The Abhiras= South of Sauvira but east of the Indus= Western part of Hyderabad dist., Sind. (4) The Kalatoya kas= Residents of Kaiat region in Baluchistan. (5) The Pahlavas— The region adjoining theHingol valley on the Parikan river. They included Vaisyas and Sudras as well. (.6) The Carmakhandikas= At the mouth of the river Hab and the Ghurma island. (7) The Gandharas= Kandahar-lower Kabul valley. (8) The Yavanas==Ionians. Greeks. ( 9-10) The Sindhus and Sauviras= Though usually linked together, they are different regions. Sauvira coincides with Rohri-Khairpur region of Sind and the remaining portion is Sindhus. (11) The Sakas== Scythians. (12) The Ku( Pu)lindas= Kunets of Kulu. But formerly they extended to Saharanpur and Ambala (Sircar, 33). (13) The Kekayas— People of the country between the Beas and the Sutlej. (14) The Kambojas— People from Kafirstan who colonised the Kunar basin. (15) The Daradas =The same ancient tribe living in the valley of the Kisenganga in Kashmir. (16) The Barbaras^ People migrated from Barbary or North Africa. (17) The Tusaras =Tokharians in N. Afghanistan, but people on the Tochi according to AGP 142. (18) The Lampakas=Lamghans associated with upper Kabul.

The colonies of Ksattriyas3 are Vahlikas, Vadhadhanas, Abhiras, Kalatoyakas, Aparitas, Sudras, Pahlavas,

The rivers originating from Rksaada and having crystal- cl ear water are : The great Nada Sona, Narmada, Sumahadruma, Mandakini, Dasarna, Gitrakuta, Tamasa, Pippala, SronI, Karatoya, Pisacika, Nilotpala, Vipasa, Jambula, Valuvahinl, Siteraja, Suktimatl, Makruna, and Tridiva.

The auspicious rivers of holy waters issuing from the slopes of the Vindhya mountains2 are: Tapi, Payosnl, Nirvindhya, Madra, Nisadha, Venya, Vaitarani, Sitibahu, Kumudvati, Toya, Mahagauri, Durga and Antasila. Satadru (Sutlej), Candrabhaga (Chenab), Iravatl ( Ravi ) , Vitasta (Jhelum), Vipasa (Beas), Devika (Deeg, a tributary of Ravi), Kubu (Kabul), Dhutapapa ( Sarada, with its headstrearns ) , Bahuda (Rapti), Drsadvati (Chitang, a tributary of Ghaggar ) , Kausiki (Kosi with its three headwaters), Lohita ( Brahmaputra ) .

Description of Kimpurusa Varsa Suta said : On hearing this and desirous of hearing further, the delighted sages asked Lomaharsana: The Sages said :

Please listen, O Brahmanas, to what you are pleased to hear. In the Kimpurusa country, there is a big grove of Plaksa trees comparable to the Nandana forest.

The span of life in the Kimpurusa land is said to be ten thousand years. The men are gold-complexioned and the women resemble Apsaras-s.

They do not suffer from ailments ; they are devoid of sorrows ; they are pure in mind ; they possess the lustre of molten gold.

In this holy country Kimpurusa, there is a fig tree exuding honey. All the inhabitants of Kimpurusa Varsa drink its excellent juice.

Adjoining Kimpurusa, there is Harivarsa where the people are yellow as gold in complexion.

All the people there are descended from Devaloka and have divine forms. In Harivarsa, all people quaff the splendid juice of sugarcane.

They live joyously upto eleven thousand years. They remain delighted in their minds. Old age does not afflict them, nor do the people get decrepit or senile.

In the central sub-continent Ilavrta1 which I have mentioned before, the sun does not blaze fiercely and men do not get aged (pre-maturely).

In Ilavrta the moon, the sun and the stars are dim. Men have the colour, lustre and fragrance of the lotus flower. Their eyes are as wide as the lotus leaf.

They feed on the juice of Jambu fruit. They neither grow aged nor decay. They have fragrance. They are cultured and polished. They enjoy pleasures as the fruit of their auspicious rites.

They are fallen from Devaloka. They are non-senile and deathless. These excellent men live for thirteen thousand years.

Nine thousand Yojanas to the west of Meru lies the mountain Gandhamadana, thirtyfour thousand Yojanas long.

To the north and south, it stretches upto Nila and Nisadha mountains. Its height is forty thousand Yojanas. It penetrated downwards to a thousand Yojanas.

The mountain Malyavan lies in the east. Its magnitude has already been mentioned. It is to the south of Nila and to the north of Nisadha. The great mountain Meru of extensive magnitude lies in the centre of these mountains, which seem to penetrate it.

A river of Jambu juice resembling liquified collyrium flows from the south of Meru to the north of Nisadha.

When the fruits fall on the ground, they make a loud noise. The juice of the Jambu fruits develops into a flowing river.

The river passes around IVIeru and then enters Jcithbu mula and the people there drink of it. They are delighted and surrounded by the tasty Jambu fruits.

Imbibing the juice they conquer old age. Certainly they never fall sick or die.

The gold called Jambunada which Devas wear as ornaments is found there. It appears as splendid as the glowworm.

The splendid juice of the fruits of all Varsa-trees (Jambu) strengthens the people (of the continent). It is the gold that is used for ornaments of Devas.

Their excretions (faeces and urine) are scattered all round. Thanks to the blessings of the Lord, the earth absorbs the refuge and the dead bodies.

The Raksasas, Pisacas and Yaksas reside on Himavat. The Gandharvas and Apsaras-s live on mountain Hemakuta.

The Nagas including Sesa, Vasuki and Taksaka live on Nisadha. The thirty three groups of Devas, the Yajnikas, wander over the great Mem. On the Nila, full of lapis lazuli, Siddhas and Brahmarsis live.

The mountain Sveta is the abode of Daityas and Danavas. The mountain Sfngavan is the place which the Pitys frequent,

Thus the mobile and immboile beings have settled in the nine continents in their respective places.

The population of Devas and human beings is too enormous to be enumerated. It should be accepted with faith by those who wish to know it (by experience). 304 Vayut Purina

Its extent is hundred thousand Yojanas since the ocean is circular and since it sanctifies the zone of the earth. Measurements are reduced in rectangular areas when they are undemarcated. Coming to the middle they split (?)

The sub-continent of Bharata has been described by you. Now describe the Kimpurusa1 and Hari Varsas.2 Thus requested by the Brahmanas, Lomaharsana replied suitably this question as follows (lit. in the manner indicated in this Purana) . Suta said :

There is an everlasting Jambu tree called Sudarsana. It blooms and bears fruits perpetually. It is resorted to by Siddhas and Caranas. It is the biggest tree in Jambudvlpa, a hundred thousand Yojanas high. This lordly tree touches heaven. The length of the fruit is eight hundred and sixty one Aratnis. This is determined by sages who know the truth.

In the sub-continent Ilavrta, they live the full span of life. The sub-continent is twenty six thousand Yojanas in length and nine thousand Yojanas in breadth around Mem. It is fashioned like a saucer.

Descent of the Ganga Suta said: The mountain Kailasa1 is on the left of Himavat. Here lives the prosperous Kubera along with the Raksasas. The ruler of Alaka rejoices in the company of Apsaras-s.

From that lake rises the divine river Acchoda. On its banks there is a great, sacred forest Caitraratha.

Manibhadra, a general of Yaksas, lives on that mountain along with his attendants. He is surrounded by his retinue of fierce Guhyakas.

The holy river Mandakini and the river Acchoda flow into the great ocean through this zone of the earth.

12-21 305 ( river) called Lauhitya. 1 On its bank there is a great divine forest of gods, called Visoka.

Obstructed by the Vindhya mountain, it falls into the southern sea. The holy river Ahladini (one of its eastern branches) flows to the east.

The branches and tributaries of these rivers are

On the banks of the river Vasvokasa, on the peak Harisrnga famous for its fragrant waters, lives the scholar Kauberaka of self-control.

Yajnopeta, Sumahan, Amitaujas and Suvikrama are his attendants. They are on par with him. Kauberaka is surrounded by scholarly Brahma-raksasas of the family of Agastya.

The prosperity of the inhabitants of mountains should be known thus. Through mutual cooperation their prosperity arising from Dharma (Virtue) , Artha (Wealth) and Kama (Love ) becomes doubled.

Behind Hemakuta there is the lake Sayana.1 The rivers Manasvinx and Jyotismatl emerge from this lake.

They flow into the eastern and western oceans respectively. On the excellent mountain Nisadha is the lake Visnupada. 2

The two rivers, GandharvI and Nanvali rise from it. There is a great eddy called Candraprabha rising to the west of Meru.

The holy river of Jarhbu juice, the source of the splendid gold (called Jambunada) flows from here. The lake Payoda,3 as splendid as the white lotus, is on the mount Nila.

It is from this lake that the rivers Pundarika and* * Payoda have their source. The holy lake Uttara-manasa rises from mount Sveta.

There are twelve famous lakes full of lotuses, fishes and birds. They are named as Rudrajayas and they are (big) like seas.

From these lakes there emerge the rivers Santa and Madhvl. There is no rainfall in the Kimpuru sa continent.

The mountains Somaka, Varaha and Narada extend to the west upto the briny sea.

Excellent rivers flow here with waters from the subterranean regions. These blessed rivers flow through the mountains Rsabha, Dundubhi, Dhumra and Mahagiri, to the east and fall into the briny sea. Others flow to the north over the mountains Candrakahka, Prana, Mahan and Agni and merge into the great ocean.

South-east of Kailasa, there is the great mountain Lohita. It is brilliant like the sun and has peaks of gold. It is adjacent to the heavenly mountain Pisanga that abounds in red arsenic. It is full of auspicious animals and medicinal herbs. At the foot of the mountain (Lohita) , there is a great divine lake called Lohita, from which flows the great auspicious water

These countries become more and more flourishing in respect of good qualities, health, longevity and magnitude based on virtue, love and wealth. Different kinds and castes of people and other living beings endowed with good qualities live in the different countries. Thus the Earth holds the entire universe.

To the north-east of Kailasa, there is a mountain called Candraprabha near mount Suvarna which abounds in celestial animals, medicinal herbs and minerals for the use of Devas. The mountain Candraprabha3 is like a pure jewel. There is a divine lake Acchoda at its foot.

Splendid, auspicious, cool water flows from the foot of Kailasa into a lake called Manda. It is full of lilies and is sparkling like autumnal clouds. From that (lake) proceeds the auspicious, heavenly river Mandakini. 2 On its bank stands a great celestial forest called Nandana.

It inundates the habitations ofthe Nisadas, Dhivaras, RJikas, Nllamukhas, Keralas, Ustrakarnas, Kiratas, Kalodaras, Vivarnas. Then it vanishes into the expanse of the sea towards the east. The branch Pavani also flows to the east sanctifying Apathas, Indradyumna lake, Kharapathas, Indrasankupathas, the middle of the garden Maskara and Kuthapravarana. Near Indradvipa, it enters the salt ocean. 56-58, The branch Nalini flows to the east sanctifying the Tomaras, Hamsamargas and Huhukas. Rising in the eastern lands and piercing through mountains in several places, it reaches Karnapravaranas and Asvamukhas. After passing through the desert mountains, it reaches Vidyadharas. It flows into the great ocean at the Nemimandala Kostha.

The two rivers Jyotsna and Mrgakanta rise from this (lake) . The holy lake known as Rudrakanta is4 full of with Pangong Tso forms an extensive water sheet—AGP 71.

The twelve mountains entered the ocean because they feared Mahendra who would have cut off their wings. What is seen reflected in the form of a black hare on the white (orb of the) moon is the replica of Bharatavarsa divided into nine regions. It is seen in the moon that rises here and not elsewhere.

The great mountains Cakra, Balahakaand Mainaka extend to the southern ocean. In between Gandra and Mainaka, to the south, there is the great fire Samvartaka which consumes the waters of the ocean. It is known as Aurva and Vadavamukha.

The subjects thereof have long beards and moustache. They are black and shining like clouds. They have the maximum life span of eighty years.

They eat fruits and roots and live like monkeys. Like, cattle, they follow promiscuous, unconcealed sexual habits. They are devoid of bodily and mental purity and they have no fixed rules or conventions.

That continent is full of worthless men. Similarly other countries and islets shall be known in due order. I I-

The groups of islands known as Peacock islands are extending to twenty, thirty, fifty, sixty, eighty and hundred Yojanas. There are a few, extending to a thousand Yojanas. They are long, wide and full of various living beings. Besides Jambu-dvipa there are six islands. These islands are famous all over the earth for their mines of gems and precious stones. They are known as Anga, Yama, Malaya, Sahkha, Kusa and Varaha2 islands.

Know ye that the Anga Dvipa1 comprises islands, and many people of the Mleccha tribes live there. That continent is very large.

There are mines of gems, corals and gold in that land here. It is variegated with rivers, mountains and forests. It resembles the vast expanse of th e briny sea.

What is called Yamadvipa2 is also full of mines of gems. There is a mountain called Dyutiman, embellished with minerals and is the source of many rivers and gold (mines) .

The glorious mountain Malaya is the source of origin of silver. This excellent moutain is famous as Mahamalaya.

It is known as the second Mandara mountain. The abode of Agastya, bowed to by Devas and Asuras, is also there.

It is the abode of noble Raksasas who can assume various forms as they please. Know that to be the habitation of the enemies of Devas, proud of their strength. Free from all harassments, this city is inaccessible to human beings.

In that island, on the eastern shore of the sea there is Gokarna, the great shrine of Sankara.

Sankhadvipa1 is ruled as a single kingdom extending to a hundred Yojanas. It is the abode of many Mleccha tribes.

The mountain Sankhagiri has the lustre ofwhite conchshell. It is sacred and is the source of many gems. It is resorted to by pious persons.

From this mountain rises the holy river Sankhanaga. Sahkhamukha, king of Nagas, has his abode there.

Similarly, the Kumudadvlp a 2 is brightened by variegated flowers. Full of many villages, it is the source of many gems and jewels.

There the blessed sister of Mahadeva, named Kumuda, the destroyer of evil persons, is worshipped by the people.

A great river known as Varahi emerges from that mountain. Its waters are tasty. There are holy centres on its banks. This river is bestower of bliss.

O Brahmana, the people bow to Visnu the powerful deity in the form of a Boar. They do not honour any other god.

Thus the six southern islands of the Bharata country have been described in detail.

In this single Bharata there are many islands separated by the ocean. They have been divided into various parts.

• Thus have been described in details the four great continents adorned with islands interspersed in between as well as Jambudvipa together with its adjacent islands.

Similarly, the Malaya Dvipa3 is also surrounded by the ocean. It is the source of gems, jewels and gold. It is very prosperous. It is the place of origin of sandalwood and is surrounded by gulfs {lit. seas ) . Many kinds of Mleccha tribes live there. There are many rivers and mountains.

There is a great city Lanka on the beautiful ridge and peak of the mountain Trikuta decorated with different

There is a mountain called Cakragiri full of many rivulets and caves. The caves afford shelter to various living beings. That great mountain spreads on to many places in the Naga land with its extremities reaching the lord of rivers, the abode of serpents (ocean).

There is another mountain Kaiicanapada which is a second Malaya. There are many hermitages there, resorted to by pious persons and full of hedges of grass and Soma plants. It abounds in flowers and fruits of all kinds. It excels even the heaven. On festive occasions, on all Parvan days, heaven descends to that place.

Countries of the Jambudvipa Suta said : I-4. Know that there is an ocean ten thousand Yojanas in extent to the south of Bharata. There is a country in it three thousand Yojanas long and one-third of it in breadth. It abounds in fruits and flowers. The regional mountain (Kula- parvata) thereof is Vidyutvan,1 the innumerable peaks of which embellish the land. There are thousands of rivers there, with clean and tasty water. The lakes contain pure water. In the many long and wide caves, and crevasses of that mountain there are many prosperous jolly men and women of various shapes and features. In the many spacious and long and wide cavities (valleys?) are established hundreds and thousands of cities built into the mountain. These houses are joined to one another and have only a door each.

Similarly in the island called Varaha3 , there is a beautiful mountain known as Varaha containing many caves, crevasses and rivulets. The island is densely populated by different Mleccha tribes and people of different castes. There are many habitations and cities flourishing and prosperous with wealth and foodgrains. It is full of righteous people. The rivers, mountains and forests thereof contain various kinds of fruits and flowers of various colours.

Description of Plaksa Dvipa and other Dvipas Suia said : O excellent Brahmanas, I shall describe the Plaksa- • ' * dvipa 1 precisely but succinctly. Listen to it as I narrate it exactly.

Its extent is twice that of Jambudvipa. Its circumference (perimeter) is thrice its breadth. This briny sea is surrounded by that continent.

The people over there are righteous and have a great longevity. There is neither famine nor fear of old age and ailments.

4-16 I 315

In these Varsas Devas, Gandharvas, Prabhas, Praj apatis are seen residing and sporting about.

In these countries there are neither robbers nor Mlecchas. The people are mostly fair in complexion . They die according to seniority in age.

Here also are the seven rivers which are auspicious and which dispel sins. The chief of them are Pavitra, Santati, Dyutigarbha and Mahi.

Hundreds and thousand of others are known as their branches . They flow on as Indra showers in plenty.

The Kusa Dvipa is surrounded by the ocean of ghee. In extent it is equal to Kusa Dvipa.

Thus the position of Kusadvipa has been described to you. Now I shall explain the extent of Kraunca Dvipa.1

It is remembered to have twice the area ofKusa Dvipa. The ocean of ghee is encircled by this continent.

In this continent the chief mountain is Kraunca. The next after Kraunca is Vamana and the next after Vamana is Andhakara.

After Andhakara comes Divavrt. After Divavrt comes Divinda.

After Divinda is the great mountain Pundarika. After Pundarika is the mountain Dundubhisvana .

These are seven bejewelled mountains of Kraunca Dvipa. They abound in fruit trees and a number of creepers.

The Varsa mountains are twice in height as compared with the previous ones. Now I shall mention the names of the Varsas. Listen and understand them.

Beyond Muni Desa is Dundubhisvana full of Siddhas and Caranas. There the people are mostly fair in complexion.

There also the rivers are seven in number one for each country. They are Gaurx, Kumudvati, Sandhya, Ratri, Manojava, Khyati and Pundarika. These seven appear as Ganga divided into seven rivers.

Other rivers flow into these or nearby and meet the ocean. They are large and flow with great volume of water.

The glorious Kraunca Dvlpa is surrounded by the ocean of whey which is equal to Krauncadvlpa in extent.

I shall henceforth explain the features of the entire Saka Dvlpa1 exactly as they are. Listen as I recount them precisely.

Its extent is twice that of Kraunca Dvipa. It encircles the ocean of whey.

All the countries there are very sacred. People die only after a long life. There is neither famine nor fear of old age and sickness.

There also are seven bejewelled mountains which as well as the rivers are the sources of gems and precious stones. Listen to their names.

The first mountain, called Udaya, extends to the east. It is golden and is the abode of divine sages and Gandharvas. Hence it is like Meru.

There is mountain Raivataka raised by god Brahma. It is here that the Star Revati is always established in the heavens.

Beyond that there is a very great mountain called Syama. It was due to it that people got dark complexion from the outset.

Next is the massive mountain Astagiri, full of silver. The next mountain is Ambikeya, an impassable snowclad mountain.

Next to Ambikeya is Ramya where all medicinal herbs grow. It is called Kesari and the winds blow on it. 1 * M!. Ali identifies this with the monsoon lands of Asia where teak abounds, viz. Malaya, Siam, Indi-China (AGP 39), while De (pp. 172-173) identifies it with Tartary including Turkestan in central Asia.

The extent, magnitude, length and breadth of this continent are as those of Saka dvlpa (?) A great tree called Saka (teak) grows in its centre and is worshipped by the people.

Devas, Gandharvas, Siddhas and Caranas are visible and play about here in the midst of people.

The people (in the countries thereof) are virtuous and observe (the distinctive rules of) their respective four castes (Varnas) . There are seven rivers flowing to the sea, one in each Varsa and these seven rivers are remembered as the seven streams of Gahga.

The fourth is Sivetika which is also remembered as Tridiva; the fifth is known as Iksu as well as Kratu.

These seven great Gangas of auspicious waters sanctify all the people residing in Saka dvlpa every year.

There are thousands of others rivers joining them. They have abundant of waters since Indra showers rain profusely.

It is impossible to enumerate their names and magnitudes. These excellents river are very holy. The joyous people drink from them.

The continent is full of trees laden with flowers and fruits. It is flourishing with wealth and foodgrains. It is surrounded by the ocean of milk equal in size to it.

They are neither greedy nor deceptive and neither jealous nor malicious. There is no loss of fortitude nor adverse results. Everything is natural with them.

No tax is raised. No punishment is meted out. There is none to punish . They know of virtue by natural righteousness. They protect one another. residents of this continent. 1 shall now describe the seventh continent Puskara. Please listen.

The ocean of milk is surrounded by Puskara Dvipa,1 which is twice the Saka Dvipa in extent.

There is only one glorious mountain called Mahasila having lofty peaks full of varieg ated j ewels . ridges and precipices stands in the eastern half of the Dvipa. Its circumference is twentyfive thousand Yojanas.

In fact the two mountains constitute but a single mountain with peaks and ridges divided into two. It is surrounded by the ocean of fresh water.

The people there live up to ten thousand years with splendid health and happiness. They have attained mental Siddhis.

In the two countries (Var$as) the forms and features and the span of life are similar. There is no distinction of high and low among them. In appearance and conduct of life all of them are equal.

None defrauds (anyone); none is jealous. There are neither thieves nor fear nor imprisonment nor punishment, nor greed nor illegal acceptance of gifts.

There is neither truth nor falsehood nor virtue nor evil nor the rules of caste nor the stages of life. There is no trade, no cattle breeding, no business enterprise.

The lore of the three Vedas, the system of civil and military ad minis trarion, acts of service to others in return for payment, wounding others with harsh words or sharp implements— these are absent in the two Varsas of Puskara. * •

There are no rivers, no rainfall, neither bitter cold nor oppressive heat, no vegetation, no water, no mountains, no rivulets.

Puskara is surrounded by the ocean of sweet water equal in extent to that continent.

The seven continents are encircled by the seven oceans. The ocean immediately adjacent to a continent encircles it.

The relative increase in the size of the continents and oceans should be known thus. Since they have abundant increase of waters, the oceans are called Samudras.

Since in the land-tracts the four groups of people and sages live, they are called Varsas. They afford happiness to the people.

The word Rsi is derived from the root \/R$. The root 's/Vrs means the continuance of energy. Since the land-tracts afford continuance of energy they have the designation Varsa. 1 *

In the bright half, when the moon waxes, there is

In the bright fortnight, the ocean gets filled with water by itself. In the dark fortnight, the ocean recedes by itself.

Just as water in a cooking pot boils up by its contact with fire, similarly water in the vast ocean swells in quantity and magnitude.

The increase and decrease of water is of fixed quantity, neither more nor less in the bright and dark fortnights at the rise and setting of the moon. The increase and decrease in the ocean again is the result of the waxing and the waning of the moon.

It is observed that the increase and decrease of (the level of water in) the ocean is upto five hundred and ten angulas. This (increase and decrease) is seen (occurring) on the parvan days.

The term dvlpa (island) is so called on account of waters being on either side. 1 They are surrounded on all sides. As it is a store-house of waters, the ocean is called Udadhi.

Mountains without knots and peaks are Giris. Those with knots are Parvatas. Hence in the Plaksa Dvlpa, Gomeda, having knots is called a Parvata.

The great Salmali ( silk-cotton) tree is worshipped in the Salmala Dvlpa. In the Kusa Dvlpa, a stump of Kusa grass is worshipped. Hence the continent is called by its name (viz. Kusa).

In the Kraunca Dvlpa, the mountain Kraunca stands in its centre. The tree in Saka Dvipa is Saka ( teak ) . (Hence) the dvlpa ( continent) is named after it.

In the Puskara Dvlpa, the Nyagrodha tree is worshipped by the people. The great lord in Puskara is Brahma, the lord of the three worlds.

Brahma, the Prajapati, lives there along with Sadhyas. The Devas numbering thirty three, along with sages worship him. The most excellent of the Devas is worshipped there.

In the above-mentioned two sub-continents of Puskara Dvipa, god Brahma himself protects the subjects who are ( as if) adorned with good people.

The supreme ruler Brahma, the lord of three worlds, holds the rod (Dan da) of chastisement (to govern them) . He is their lord, Visnu, Siva, father and grandfather.

(Their) food comes to them automatically without any effort on their part. The people always take that nutritious food of six tastes.

The great ocean of sweet water encircles the Puskara Dvipa on all sides.

There is a great world beyond it. The ground is golden and flat as if it is a single slab. It is twice (?) in extent.

Beyond that there is a mountain. At the end of the boundary, there is a circular horizon. It is both lighted (on the hither-part) and dark (on the rest) . It is called Lokdloka.

Its height is ten thousand Yojanas. Its hitherward side is bright and its side beyond is dim (dark) .

Its breadth is as much ( as its height) . It can rise above the earth (to any height) according to its will. The word ‘loka? in c dloka y is understood in the sense of illumination (the bright interior side) and indicates the world. And c Mirdlokay is the dark, external side.

The illuminated part extends to (the world or the area where people live) . Beyond that, it is surrounded by water. The JVirdloka ( the dark part and portion beyond) covers he Cosmic Egg.

They support one another. The later is ten times bigger than the former. They are caused and pervaded by one another. 1

All round this Cosmic Egg, there is a ‘solid 5 sea. With its waters it holds the Cosmic Egg.

Outside the solid water, on all its sides and above, the ‘solid 5 fire holds and supports it.

The fire stands like an iron ball circular and globular in shape. It is supported and held all round by solid wind. The solid wind supports the ether as well.

Bhutadi ( Cosmic Ego ) holds and supports the Ether, Mahat (Cosmic Intellect) supports the Cosmic Ego and is itself pervaded and supported by the infinite Unmanifest {Prakrti ) .

The infinite Unmanifest {Prakrti) is subtle and divided into ten. It is infinite, immobile (with no Soul) . It has neither beginning nor end.

It is beyond everything. It is terrible. It has no suPPor** It 1S free from ailments. It is many thousand Yojanas in distance. It is covered with darkness ( Tamos) .

It is darkness itself. It is devoid of light. It is unlimited. It does not occupy space. Even Devas cannot comprehend it. It is devoid of activity.

There is a great, famous, refulgent shrine of Siva at the end of darkness and the Ether and hence at the very border. It is well-known for its splendour.

They say that spot is inaccessible even to Devas. It lies in the premises of the great lord of Devas.

In the universe, the worlds getting the light and heat of the sun and the moon, are called Lokas. There is no doubt about this. I. Verses I52ff give the Puranic concept of the seven protective ‘sheaths9 round the universe (Brahmanda)? The influence of Sahkhya categories is obvious.

There are seven worlds beneath and seven above the Earth. O Brahmanas, there are seven pathways of the wind and god Brahma’s abode.

From PataJa to heaven there is a fivefold course. This is the extent of the Universe. This is the ocean of the worldly existence.

The activity of the Universe with neither beginning nor end goes on like this arising from different types and groups of people. This unsteady activity of the Universe is really wonderful.

The physical creation of this is very extensive. It cannot be comprehended even by the blessed Siddhas who know things even beyond the scope of sense-organs.

Thus the worlds orginating from one another support one another by the relationship of the supporter and the supported or as the effects of their cause.

The elements earth etc. are the evolutes covered up by one another. They enter into one another, the lesser into the greater. 174. Since they penetrate one another, they have attained stability. Formerly they were without special features. But by intermingling they became possessed of speciality. The earth, fire and the wind, these three are separately and accurately ascertained. 328 Vayu Parana

Their accurate ascertainment is specially noticed by the decline in attributes and essence. The accurate determination of the rest is not observable due to their subtleness.

Aloha is beyond all the Bhutas (elements). They are discernible separately only in the illuminated Ether (.Akdsa \

Just as in a big vessel smaller vessels are placed and are mutually supported by it though separate from each other, similarly the separateness of the elements is internal within the illuminated Ether (Akasa) .

All these four elements are consecutively bigger, the letter bigger than the former. The creation can function as long as the elements exist.

^ The perfection (creation) of creatures is regarded as being within (i.e. based on) Bhutas (elements) . The creation of effects cannot take place without Bhutas,

The Bhutas being of the nature ofeffects are restricted. The entities e.g. the Mahat (Cosmic Xntellegence etc.) are of the nature of causes.

Thus, O Brahmanas, the arrangement of this earth with seven continents and oceans has been explained to you along with their divisions precisely as they are.

Only this much of established arrangement (of the Universe) can be explained by me. O King, only this much need be heard in regard to the constitution and arrangement of the world.

The seven Prakrtis support one another. There are many Prakrtis above and below and on all sides. I shall explain them to a little extent. ^ ^ «0!ia,j3.a*s, now I shall describe the position of the luminaries, the boundaries, the horizon and sub-horizon of the earth.

Listen to the names of the countries of these mountains in due order. The country (Varsa) of the mountain Udaya is Udaya well known as Jalada. The second Varsa, that of J aladhara is Sukumara; that of Raivata is Kaumara; that of Syama is Manlcaka; the splendid Varsa of Asta is Kusumottara; of Ambikeyais Modaka; and that of Kesaras is Mahadruma.

Clouds rise and pass pouring down showers. There is a great mountain Jaladhara where Indra showers plenty of water. There in the rainy season people get ample showers .

Various gems and precious stones are obtained in Jambu Dvipa. In all these continents people observe truth, celibacy and self-control. Thereb y, their health and span of life is increased twofold.

The main land- tract of the Kraunca mountain is Kusalin; that of Vamana is Manonuga. Beyond Manonuga is the third land tract Usna. Beyond Usna is Pravaraka and beyond Pravaraka is Andhakara. Beyond Andhakara is Muni Desa.

The season is perpetually the same as in Northern Kurus. The people are happy, devoid of old age and exhaustion. This is the condition in Dhataki and Mahavita countries. Thus the entire situation in Puskara Dvlpa has been nararted.

The distance between these mountains is twice their magnitude. The first country is Udbhida; the second is Venumandala; the third is Svairathakara ; the fourth is Lavana ; the fifth is Dhptimat ; the sixth is Prabhakara ; and the seventh is Kapila. These are the seven countries and mountains.

The whole mountain-range spreads over the full extent of Puskara Dvipa. There are two holy and splendid provinces in that Dvipa on either side of the mountain Manasa. The Mahavita Varsa is exterior to the mountain while Dhataki is the interior.

The cosmic form of Pradhdna (the Unmanifest Nature ) which has been described (lit. enumerated) to you by its extents and zones, is only a partial modification. Its cosmic form is the abode of the Lord to whom belongs the whole Universe. In this way, the elements have interpenetrated each other.

Thus Plaksa and other continents have been briefly described to you. It is impossible to describe the growth, decay (creation and annihilation) and other details of these continents even in hundreds of years.

O excellent Brahmanas ! There is no limit, decline or end to the magnitude of (the elements, viz. ) Earth, Water, Fire, Wind, Mahat, Tanias, the infinite, omnipresent Lord Is vara. While enumerating the names of the Lord (Siva), I have mentioned this before. 169. The Lord who is called by the name Siva has been glorified to you. He pervades everything and is worshipped in all places. 1 70. He is worshipped on the earth, in rasatala, wind, fire, seas and heaven. There is no doubt in this. 171. He is to be realized through penance as the Lord of great splendor. This great God, the great Yogin has divided himself in various forms. He, the Lord of the worlds, is worshipped in various ways in all the worlds.

Within the Cosmic Egg there are the worlds, viz. Bhur i.e. the earth consisting of seven continents, Bhuvar, Svar, Mahar, Jana, Tapas and Satya. This much constitutes the world which can be known. Beyond that, there is the end of the world.

Its height is thirty-four thousand Yojanas. The excellent Manasa mountain encircles half this Dvipa. It stands on the seashore looking like the newly risen moon. Its height is fifty thousand Yojanas. Its girth too is so much. This mountain Manasa is on the western half of the Dvipa.

The land-tracts amongst those mountains are seven in number. They are holy and splendid. The people thereof abide by the rules of castes and stages of life and admit no 322 Vajiu Purina mixture of castes or stages of life. Since they do not swerve from the path of virtue, they are invariably happy.

O Samsapayana, this continent is very extensive. It is like a wheel, covered by rivers and cloud-like mountains wonderful and variegated with minerals and decorated with jewels and corals. The cities are of various shapes. They abound in flourishing and prosperous people.

The cosmos is shaped like the new moon on the western horizon (at the beginning of the bright half) when the sun is in the Aquarius Zodiac. 326 Vayu Parana There are thousands of crores Cosmic Eggs like this, above, below and on all sides. They are caused and pervaded by the seven effects of Prakrti (viz. the elements, Mahal and Bhutadi).

The first river is known by the names Sukumarx, Gahga, Sivajala* and Anutapta, the second is known asKumarx, Siddha and Satx; the third is designated as Nanda and Parvatx.

The Nether-worlds :* Manifestation of the Luminaries Understand the magnitude of the earth below and above. The earth, wind, sky, water and the fifth ( element) fire are proclaimed as infinite primary elements which are allpervading.

Similarly, the firmament is well-known as supportless, charming, the support ( accommodater) of various things and infinite. The wind is born ofthe Ether.

Waters lie within the earth and the earth is established over waters. The sky is above, the earth is below ( it) and again waters are underneath.

In this way there is no end to the evolutes of the Bhutas. They are infinite. Know that this has been decisively mentioned by gods formerly.

The sequence should be known thus. First the earth, then the water and the sky thereafter. This order prevails up to the seventh world—Rasatala.

The nether world extends1 to ten thousand Yojanas at each rung. Each of these rungs has been explained in detail by the sages.

The first rung is Atala, below that is Sutala. The widely extensive Vitala is below that.

Thereafter come Gabhastala, Mahatala, Sri tala and Patala is known as the seventh.

20-33 331 kulada s town fully inhabited by delighted (jolly) people, the abode of the demon Bhlma, the mansion of Suladanta, the city of Lohitaksas and Kalihgas, the town of Svapada, the city of Dhananjaya and of the noble-souled Nagendra* (Lord of Serpents), the city of Kaliya, the serpent and that of Kalasa. Thus it should be known undoubtedly that there are thousands of cities ( and abodes) of Serpents, Danavas and Raksasas in the first nether-world with black-soil.

Thus the seven Nether-worlds that could be discussed have been recounted . They are always inhabited by Devas , Asuras , great Serpents, and Raksasas.

Beyond this is total absence of light. It cannot be traversed by Siddhas and Sadhus (good people or sages). It is unknown even to Devas and is traffic (iife)-less.

O excellent Brahmanas, thus is the grandeur of earth, fire, water, wind and ether described by the sages. There is no doubt about this.

I shall now describe the rotation of the sun and the moon. 1 These are stationed in the ether along with their discs and shine with their lustre as long as they move.

Revolving all round, the Sun illuminates and protects the three worlds. Hence on account of illumination andprotection, he is called c Ravi*. The root 's/av means ‘illumination9 (and protection) , 1

Now I shall mention the magnitude of the moon and the sun. The word Mahi is derived from 's/Adah c to celebrate’. The word denotes the celebrated Bharata Varsa.

The extent of Bharata is equal to the extent of the vastly extensive disc of the sun. Now listen to the number of Yojanas it covers.

The extent of the sun is nine thousand Yojanas. The girth or the extent of its disc is thrice its diameter. The lunar disc is twice the solar disc (in diameter as well as girth).

Those Abhvmamns who have gone were on a p<^r with the current ones. The Devas who have gone are on a par with the current ones in forms and names.

Hence, I shall describe the surface of the earth through the current Devas. (I shall recount) the situation of the heavenly world entirely through the current (Devas) .

The entire earth is known as fifty crores (of Yojanas) in extent. From the middle of Meru on all four sides is half of it.

The outer surface of the globular sphere earth in terms exof the earth is co-extensive with the sphere of the stars in the firmament.

In regard to the magnitude of the outer surface the firmament is equal to the earth. The same is the measure of all the seven worlds.

It is within the Cosmic Egg that the earth with its seven continents and seven worlds, viz. Bhur, Bhuvah, Svah, Mahar, Jana, Tapas and Satya is stationed.

All round this Cosmic Egg there is a solid ocean. The entire sphere of the earth is supported by the solid water. 1

I shall enumerate in order the cities of the .guardians shows the influence of Sahkhya Tattoos. sheaths of our Cosmic 336 Vayu Purana of the worlds.1 The proof of the movements of the luminary bodies will also be mentioned.

To the east of Meru and above Manasa is the holy city of Mahendra abounding in all essential riches and richly inlaid with gold.

To the south of Meru and above Manasa lives Yama, son of Vivas van, in his city Samyamana.

To the west of Meru and above Manasa is the charming city of the intelligent Varuna. It is called Sukha.

To the north of Meru and above Manasa is the city Vibhavari of Soma (the moon) which is comparable to the city of Mahendra.

Above Manasa in all the four quarters the guardians of the worlds are stationed for the establishment of virtue (Dharma) and protection of the worlds.

Understand the solar movement when the sun reaches south during the southern transi t all round above the guardians of the worlds.

In his transit to the south, the sun moves fast like a discharged arrow. It takes the group of luminary bodies with it and revolves always.

When the sun is in the mid-horizon in Amaravati, it is called sunrise in the city of Samyamana of the son of Vivasvat.

Then it is midnight in Sukha. When the sun is in midhorizon (in Samyamana) the sun is seen rising in Sukha, the city of Varuna.

When it is midnight at Vibhavari, it is sunset in Amaravati, the city of Mahendra. To the people of the southeast (or south and the east) it is afternoon.

What is (when it is) the forenoon of the people of the southern and western countries it is the late night to the people in the northern territories.

It is early in the night for the territories that are in the north and east. Similarly (the following is the situation) when the sun shines in the abodes of the north, during the northern transit.

When the sun is in midday in Sukha, the city of Varuna, it rises in Vibhavarx, the city of Soma.

Making the stars ( and planets) whirl and revolving itself like a firebrand, the sun sets and then rises quickly. *

Thus the sun moves in the four continents ending with the southern one. It rises and sets again and again.

The sun gives warmth to two abodes of Devas in the forenoon and two in the afternoon* With its rays alone it heats one of them during midday.

After rising the sun blazes with its rays of increasing heat till midday. Thereafter with its rays of decreasing heat it sets.

The eastern and western direction is determined bv sunrise and sunset. While the sun blazes in front (its heat is felt) behind as well and on sides also.

Where the sun appears rising, it is known as sunrise to the people thereof; (while) where the sun vanishes, it is called sunset in regard to the people there.

Due to the far distant position of the sun and being covered up by the line (horizon) of the earth, its rays become invisible ( being obstructed from sight) . Hence it is not seen at night.

The appearance of the planets, stars and the sun as well as their rising and setting should be known by the magnitude of their height.

Fire and water have white lustre and the earth has black shadow. Since the sun is at a great distance at the time of rising, it appears to be without rays. Since it is without rays, it has the red lustre, and the absence of heat is due to its redness.

Wherever the sun is seen to be stationed on the line (of horizon) it is seen a thousand Yojanas above.

When the sun sets, the brilliance of the sun partially enters fires. Hence fire shines more brilliantly at night, even from a distance. 338 Vayu Purana

When the sun rises again, the brilliance of fire enters the sun. This together with the brilliance left in the sun at the time of sunset, makes it all the more brilliant. So the sun blazes during the day.

The light and heat of the sun and fire getting mixed together nourish people during day and night .