Garuda Purana — one of 18 Mahapuranas. Main scripture on after-death journey. Vishnu narrated to Garuda.
19,000 verses. 2 khandas: Purva (Vishnu-katha, dharma) and Uttara (death-hell-heaven, shradh).
✦ Main Topics
Yama-dharma philosophy.
Heaven-hell descriptions.
Soul journey after death.
13-day rituals.
Garuda Purana recitation.
Rebirth explanation.
Karma-fruit determination.
✦ 13-Day Journey
1. Soul leaves body.
2. Pind-daan starts.
3-10. Yamadutas escort soul.
11. Preta-bhoj.
12. Sapindikaran.
13. Rebirth determined.
Special rituals each day.
✦ Recitation in Death Home
At/after death.
13 days daily.
Family listens.
Removes death fear.
Inspires good deeds.
Shows moksha path.
Alone or via priest.
✦ Misconceptions
Not a fear-scripture — guide.
Not only after death — read in life too.
Hell descriptions metaphorical.
Karma teaching supreme.
Moksha via good deeds.
📚Sources & References
Content in this article is verified against the following classical and modern authoritative sources. Readers may independently verify against the original sources.
- ▪Surya Siddhanta — classical Sanskrit astronomical text (~5th century CE)
- ▪Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra — foundational text on Vedic astrology by Maharishi Parashara
- ▪Muhurta Chintamani by Ram Daivajna (16th century) — standard reference for muhurat selection
- ▪Astronomical Algorithms by Jean Meeus (Willmann-Bell, 1998) — basis for all astronomical computations on this site
- ▪Lahiri Ayanamsa — standard sidereal reference adopted by the Indian Calendar Reform Committee (1955)
✦ Frequently Asked Questions
Can Garuda Purana be kept at home?▼
Yes — no prohibition. It is a Purana, not inauspicious. Readable. Special after death.
13-day rites today?▼
Priest arrangement difficult. Do per ideal timing. Some rites done on 13th. Per family practice.
🔗Related Topics
Note: This content is published for educational and cultural reference. For personal religious or astrological decisions, please consult a qualified pandit or jyotishi.