1) Agni: The Ten Incarnations- 3; Profile of Universal Creation-14; Procedure of Puja to Ganesha, Shiva, Chandi, Vishnu and Surya- 15; Shri Lakshmi Stotra and benefits -17; Vishnu Panjara Stotra for Raksha -18; Marjana Stotra for Raksha for Self and Others -20; A brief on Vedas and Puranas- 22; Temple construction and fruits -24; Tirtha Mahatmya -25; Description of Bhuvana Kosha -27; Ashrama/ Varna Dharmas -28; Aachara Varnana (Description of Traditions)-29; Dreams and Omens-30; Paapa Naashaka Stotra:31; Gayatri Mantra and Sandhya Vidhi-32; Sanskrit Literature and Grammar-35; Rudiments of Yoga Practice-35; Dhanur Veda ( The art of Archery and Weaponry) and Rules of Battle-36; Kingship duties and Rama Rajya-37; Property Rights -38; ‘Atma Gyan’ and the example of Jada Bharata-39; The Spirit of Bhagavad Gita-40; Yama Dharma Raja and Yama Gita: 42; Phala Shruti:44.
2) Bhavishya: Preface of the Purana – 4; Creation and Concept of Time-4; ‘Samskaras’ (Sacred Rites) -6; ‘Brahma Chari Dharma’ (Duties of Bachelor Life) -7; ‘Garhastya Dharma (Virtues of Married Life) -9; ‘Vratas’ on ‘Prati pada’, ‘Dwiteeya’ and ‘Triteeya’ Tithis -11;‘Ganesha Chaturthi’ Vrata-Origin and Procedure of Worship -13; ‘Naga Panchami’ Vrata-Origin and Procedure of Worship (Suggestions of anti-skake bite:’Auoshadhis’/ Indigenous Medicines) -13; Skanda Shashthi Vrata -15; Surya Mahatmya, Saptami Vrata and Method & Reward of Ratha Saptami -16; Brahmopadesha to Yagnavalkya Muni about Surya Nama Stotras -19; Surya’s Dwadasha Murtis and his moderated form (‘Stutis’ of Devas on Surya Deva included) -20; ‘Vyoma’ the ‘Ayudha’ of Surya and its ‘Lakshanas’ (Features) -22; Surya Deva cures Sambu’s leprosy – 22; Tri Murtis euologize Surya’s Virata Rupa and his worship -23; Surya ‘Aradhana’ and ‘Agni Homa’-Prayers to Dikpalakas, Nava Grahas, Tri Murtis, Matrikas and Select Deities -25; Formal Procedure of ‘Arghya Pradaan’ and Puja to Aditya Deva – 29; ‘Agni Kunda Nirmana Vidhi’ and ‘Shodopacharas’ to Agni Deva -31; Over-View of ‘Raja Vamshas’ of Satya, Treta and Dwapara Yugas -33; The Advent of Kaliyuga and the Ongoing Phases -35; ‘Satya Narayana Vrata’ and six ‘Kathas’ (Episodes) of His Glories -36; Shalivahana and Ishamisha (Jesus Christ) -42; King Bhoja and Prophet Mahammad -43; Appearance of sevaral ‘Acharyas’ (Teachers) to revive Hindu Dharma -45; Advaita Philospher Sankaracharya and disciples-50; The origin of Ravana and Hanuman- 52; Genesis of Ramanujacharya -53; Mughal Empire, Akbar the Great and Celibrities of the Era -54; Prophesies on Highlights in Bharata thereafter – 55; Kali Yuga’s Second, Third and Fourth quarters and ‘Kalki’ Avatar -56; Narada’s experience of ‘Vishnu Maya’ – 57;‘Vratas’, ‘Daanas’ and ‘Snaanas’ -60.
3) Brahma: Invocation – 3; Primary and Secondary Creations and Manvantaras-3;Origin of Aditya and Outline of Surya Vamsha -4;(Kuvalaashva/ Dundhumara; Satyavrata and Trishanku Swarga and Bhagirathi – Ganga included)-Manifestation of Chandra Deva and portrayal of his Vamsha-8; Bharata Desha (Karma Bhumi) and Outline of Sapta Dwipas- 11; Paataalaas (Bilwa Swarga), Ordeals of Naraka and Atonements -12; Bhur-Bhuva-Suvaadi Lokas and Sishumara Chakra – 14; Surya Mahatmya: Avatarana, Dwadashaadityas, Konaarka and Puja (Suryoshtottra included)-16; Devastation of Daksha Yagna and humiliation of Daksha (Shiva Sahasranaamaa included)-23; Ekaamra, Purushottama Kshetras and Jagannatha Temple – 32; ‘Markandopaakhyaana’-Pralaya Mukunda, Shiva & Krishna-36 Pancha Tirthas-Mahatmya and Puja Vidhana – 39; Nrisimha, Sweta Madhava and Matsya Madhava -40; Quick review of BharataVarshaa’s Sacred Tirthas- 44; Gautami Ganga-45; Shri Krishna Charitra in brief – 49; Shraadhha Vidhi Varnana -57; Sadaachaara Varnana / Principles of Righteous Living (Aabdikas, Varnaashrama, Dharmaadharma, Maha Tatwa Nirupana) – 61; Phala Shruti-70
4) Brahmanda: Invocation -3; Purusha-Prakriti, Maha Tatwa-Kshetrajna, Brahmanda-Tri Murtis -3; Maha Pralaya, Vishnu as Yagna Varaha and Process of Brahma’s Creation -4; Birth of Rudra and Brahma names Ashta Vibhutis of Shiva -6; Agni Vamsha, Profile of Pitras, Daksha Yagna and Sati’s self immolation – 9; Sapta Dwipas, spotlight on Bharata, Sapta Urthva and Adho Lokas-11; Traditional Astronomy, Solar System and Kaala Gamana Time Calcutation -15; Mystery of Jyotish Mandala, Sishumara, Dhruva, Clouds and Grahas – 17; Rudimentary Concepts for the Study of Jyotisha-20; Haalaahala’ and Nilakantha, Shiva as Fire Column and Shiva Linga – 23; Outlines on yagnas, Rishis and Vedas -30; Highlights of Kashyapa Vamsha: Conflict of Virtue and Evil -33; Skanda’s birth, Pitru Vamsha and Shraaddhas -37 ( Nakshatra Shraaddha Phala included) Parashurama Charitra a) Bhargava Rama Tapasya -40 b) Kartaveeryarjuna and his invincibility -43 c) Trailokya Vijaya Mantra Kavacha – 44 d) The Unique Krishnaamrita Ashtottara Stotra -45; e) Battle of Bhargava Rama and Karta Veerya -48; f) Encounter of Bhargava and Ganesha, Face off by Parvati -50 LALITOPAAKHYAANA-52 a) Why Maha Purusha could not overcome Paraa Shakti (Prakriti)? b) Indra’s dethronement, Lakshmi’s Exit from Swarga & Atonements -52 c) Ksheera Saagara Mathana and Mohini Avatara -53 d) Origin of Bhandaasura 55 e) Lalitodbhavana, Stuti by Devas and Wedding with Shiva -56 f) Lalita Devi’s Vijaya Yatra – 58 g) Bhandasura Vadha, Victory Commendation and revival of Manmatha – 63 h) Construction of Shri Pura -64 – Kanchi Kamakshi Charitra -65 Shri Lalita Sahasra Naama Stotra ( with Meanings) -67; Phala Shruti of Lalitaasahasra naama – 83; Shri Lalita Trishati Naama Stotra
5) Brahma Vaivarta: Invocation -3; Krishna Creates Tri Murtis and Devis & grants equal status to Shiva -3; Brahma’s secondary Creation, his progeny and their offspring -7 ;Mutual curses of Brahma and Narada and Brahma’s ineligibility to Worship -10; Narada reborn as Gandharva, his Yogic death and rebirths -11; Shri Krishna ‘Stuti’ and ‘Kavacha’ & Shiva ‘Stuti’ and ‘Kavacha’ – 14; Narada’s darshan of Narayana Maharshi -19; Maharshi Narayana defines Pancha Prakritis, their Kalas and manifestation -21;
Devi Saraswati’s ‘Puja Vidhana’ and ‘Kavacha’ -25;Yagnyavalkya Stuti to Saraswati and restoration of lost memory of Yaju Veda -28; Mutual curses of Lakshmi, Saraswati and Ganga land them in Bharata Varsha -30; Origin of Prithvi, worship to her and results of disrespect to her -31;Ganga: Bhagirath’s efforts, her Puja and final restoration as Vishnu’s wife -32;Vedavati-Maya Sita-Draupadi and as Devi Tulasi -34; Devi Savitri’s ‘puja vidhaana’ – 38;Maha Lakshmi: her exit from Swarga and restoration & Puja Vidhana (‘Shodashopachaaraas’ and Indra Stuti included) 40; Worship to Swaha, Swadha, Dakshina, Shashthi, Mangla Chandi & Manasa -44;Devi Durga’s ‘Shodasha naamas’ and ‘Vyakhya’, Stuti and Kavacha -49; ‘Ganeshopaakhyaana’ –‘Utpatti’, Kashyapa’s curse to Shiva, Ganesha about to fight with Parashurama, Ganesha Kavacha & Mahatnmya -60;Shri Krishna ‘Leelas’ (Miracles) and Mahatmya –Bhu Devi complains of ‘Bhu Bhaara’ and Krishna’s human incarnation – 61- Krishna’s instructions about births in Krishnaavatara :63; -Concept of Radha-Krishna ‘Tadaatmya’ (Unification) : 63 -Shri Krishna ‘Janma’, Shri Krishna Leelaas : 64-Dwaraka Nirmana, Krishna kills Sishupaala & Dandaavarka -69; Devi Rukmini’s wedding with Shri Krishna – 69 -Sacred Union of Radha and Krishna -70; Brahma Vaivarta Purana Phala Shruti 72
6) Bhagavata : Illusion and Creation -King Parikshith and Bramin boy’s Curse -1; Awareness of God-2 Virat Purusha –The Primeaval Force- 3; Introspection -4; Yoga -5; Simpler Approach -4; Creation By Brahma -5; Ten Stage Formation; The Example of Vidura, the Virtuous and his deliberations with Sage Maitreya -7; Analysis of Atom and Time : 9 ;Further Creations of Lord Brahma: 10 : Manu and Progeny :12; Sage Kapila and Sankya Yoga :12; Eight Stages of Yoga -13: Geneological Order of Manu’s Clan -13; Sati Devi and Lord Siva -14;Details of Shakti Peethas 15; Devotion and Realisation of Dhruva :16 Dhruva and his Lineage -17; Prajapati Priyavrata travelled All over Universe-18; Description of Planets -19; Sisumara Planetary System :21; The story of Ajamila :24;Narada Cursed By Reborn Daksha :25 Reborn Daksha’s Descendents :26; New Brihaspati ‘Narayana Kanacha’ to Indra: 26’ Visvarupa reborn as Vritrasura: 27; Narada Teaches Narada Pancha Ratra to Chandraketu :28; Diti revengful of Indra and Pumsavana Sacrifice – 29; Was Vishnu Partial to Daityas? – 30; Hiranyakasipu and Prahlada – 31; Varnashrama and Grihasti Dharma in Prahlada’s Regime -31; Salvation of Gajendra the Elephant King -33; Mammoth Churning of Ocean for ‘Amrit’ ( Nectar) -33; War by Demons and Demi Gods -35; Suka Muni’s Prophesies of Future Manus -35; Incarnation of Vamana and suppression of King Bali -36; Role of satyavrata in Matsyavara Avatara – 37; Present Manu Vivasvanta and his Progeny -38;Harischandra an Unparalled Example of Virtue and Truth – 40; Bhagiradha a Model of Perseverance -41; Lord Rama the Epic Hero -41; Details of Chandra Vamsa –the Dynasty of Moon – 43; Parasurama the paradigm of Paternal Devotion – 43;The Lineage of King Pururava -44; Maha Vishnu Avatar as Krishna – 45; Krishna’s Vigorous Drive of Spiritual Love -47; Narada’s Futuristic Vision – 48; Krishna’s demolition of Kamsa and other Demons – 48; Rukmini abducted by Lord Krishna -51;Samantaka Mani, Satyabhama and Jambavati Secured – 51; Destruction of Narakasura (Bhaumika) -52; Aniruddhha’s Wedding with Usha -53; Lord Krishna Kills Sisupala -53; Sudama, boyhood friend, honoured by Krishna – 54;Vedas- Sourcing Material Par Excellence of Supreme Energy – 55; Maha Vishnu’s Darshan to Krishna and Arjun -55; Bhasmasura over smarted by Lord Vishnu and burnt to ashes -56; Great Rishis Cursed ‘Yadu Vamsa’ to the destroyed – 57; Nine Yogindras provide replies to Maharaja Nimi – 57; Incarnations of Nara Narayan, Dattatreya and Hayagreeva – 58; Prabhasa Kshetra – Uddhava Gita Preachings by Krishna -59; Avadhuta Secured Inspiration from Nature – 59; Detachment-Varnashrama Dharma, Vidhis & Niyamas – 60; Vedic Routes of Achieving the Union – 62; Destruction of Yadu Dynasity and Krishna ‘Niryana’ – 63;Degradation of further Dynasities and Kali Yuga – 64; King Parikshith passes away -64; Original Propagation of Vedas -64; Vision of Virat Purusha -65; Summing Up – 66.
7) Devi Bhagavata: Maha Vishnu remote-controlled by Devi Bhagavati – 3; Devi Bhagavati blesses Vishnu as Hayagriva -3; Hahagriva destroys Madhu Kaithabha brothers ; Devi Bhagavati’s ‘Nirguna’ and ‘Virupa’ Shakti – 6; Interplay of Primary ‘Gunas’ causes Chandra’s romance with Tara -6; Budha weds Ila ( King Sudyumna) -7; King Pururava’s infatuation with Apsara Urvasi -7; Marshi Veda Vyas and son Suka Maha Muni – 7; Physical Manifestation of Maha Devi to Vishnu -9; King Janaka convinces Suka Muni to marry -9; Muni Suka’s wedding and Salvation thereafter -11; Genesis of ‘Matsyagandhi’ alias Satyavati -11; Chain reaction of Ganga-Mahabhisha-Ashta Vasus-King Shantanu -12;Gangeya the exemplary ‘Bhishma’ of Maha Bharat -13 ; Pandavas and Kauravas-Quick proceedings of Maha Bharata 13; Maha Bhagavati allows vision of the dead at Kurukshetra Battle – 15; Asvatthama punished and Parikshith born -16; Janamejaya’s ‘Sarpa Yajna’ stopped by Sage Asita and Veda Vyasa -16; Vision of Maha Bhagavati to Trimurtis -17; Trinity’s Prayers to Maha Bhagavati and Sixteen ‘Tatvas’ -18; Devi Bhagavati explains about Her ‘Vibhutis’ ( Manifestations & Powers) -20; The ‘Gunas’ and their characteristics -20;How Satyavrata-an illiterate Brahmin became a Learned Sage -21; Amba Yajna-Its Regulations and Precedent Performers -22; Lord Vishnu performs Amba Yajna -23; Surasena’s Illustration of Maha Devi’s Glories -24; Navaratri celebrations-Methodology and Rewards -25;
Explanations of ‘Karma’ on queries about Krishna Avatar -27; Nara and Narayana, Urvasi and Prahlada 27;Sage Bhrigu curses Maha Vishnu -29 ;Links to previous births of peronalities during Vishnu ‘Avataras’ -30;Burden of Evil on Earth and Role of Maha Maya -31; Lord Krishna’s ‘Leelas’ or Miracle Acts) -32 ; Lord Krishna prays to Maha Deva- 34; Supremacy of Maha Deva over Maha Vishnu -35;Origin of Mahishasura and his battle with Devas -36; Maha Devi’s physical features- 37; Mahishasura’s amorous proposals to Maha Devi -37; Carnage of Mahishasura’s army-38; Maha Devi destroys Mahishasura -39; Sumbha, Nikumbha and followers slayed by Maha Devi -40; Glories of Chandika Devi -43; Procedure of worshipping Maha Devi-43; Navavarana Puja and Names of Devis in Nine Enclosures -44; Indra kills Trisira and Vritra and his penance-46; Sages Vasishtha Vs. Visvamitra and their ‘Ahankaras’ ( Egos) -47; Personality clashes of Sages and Kshatriyas –King Nimi Vs. Vasishtha- King Yayati Vs.Sukracharya and Haiyas Vs. Bhargavas -48; Play of ‘Maya’-Narada’s wedding and womanhood -50 ; Genesis of Lord Brahma and His Various Creations -51; Solar Dynasty-Origin and Highlights -53;Magnificence of Satakshi Maha Devi – 55; Ultimate Supremacy of Maha Devi unquestionable -56; Daksha Prajapati- Sati Devi, Maha Deva and ‘Shakti Peethas’ -56 ; Devas and Trinity pray to Maha Bhagavati of ‘Nirguna’ and ‘Nirakara’ -57; Maha Bhagavati’s ‘Virat Svarupa’ -58; ‘Ashtanga’ ( Eight-Limbed) Yoga-Rules and Regulations -58;‘Nadis’ and ‘Chakras’ -60; ‘Brahma Gyan’ ( The Knoweldge of Almighty) -61; Bhakti and ‘Punyakshetras’ (Holy Places of Pilgrimage) – 62; External and Internal ways of Worship – 63; Brief Description of Oceans, ‘Dvipas’, Mountains and Rivers – 64; Sun,Planets,Dhruva, ‘Sisumara’, Skies & Sub-Terrain -65 ; ‘Naiyedyas’ ( Offerings) for worship of Devi Bhagavati -67; Portrayal and Manifestations of Prakriti 68; Prakriti and Purusha- Integrated Concepts : 69; Worship of Vidya Devi Sarasvati- ‘Puja’, ‘Kavacha’ and Hymns -70; Maha Vishnu’s directives to Sarasvati, Ganga and Tulasi -72; Universal dissolution and revival of Bhu Devi ( Earth) -72; Worship to Devi Ganga :73- Worship to Devi Tulasi and ‘Salagramas’ -74;Yamadharmaraja briefs Savitri on Karma, Bhakti, Sins & Vratas -76 ; Worship to Maha Lakshmi and Her Partial Extensions -79; Worship to Radha Devi and Devi Durga -82; Shakti Rupas( Images) during Manvantaras -83; Emphasis on Dharma and Right Living -85; Significance of ‘Rudrakshas’ and ‘Bhasmas’ -85; Method of ‘Sandhya Vandana’ and worship of Devi Gayatri -87; Mani Dvipa the Abode of Devi Bhagavati – 92; Devi Bhagavata ‘Phala Sruti’ -94; Annexure-Gayatri Sahasranama -96.
8) Kamakshi Vilasa: Preface -4; Prathamaadhyaaya- Devi Kamakshi as Tripura Sundari -5; Dwitiyaadhyaa- Kanchipura as Bhuloka Vaikuntha -8; Tritiyaadhyaya- Hasti Shaila Mahatmya -9; Chaturdhyaaya- The Spendour of Varadaraja Swami-10; Panchamaadhyaaya- Vagavati Prabhava-12; Shashthyaadhyaaya- Rudra Shaala Mahatmya- 13; Saptamaadhaya- Significance of Ekaamra Vriksha -15; Ashtamaadhyaaya- Glories of Ekaamreshwara and Bala/ Tapah Kamakshi -17; Navamaadhyaaya -Sarva Tirtha Mahima -19; Dashamaadhyaya- Kamakoti Sthala Nirnaya -20; Ekadashaadhyaaya- Exaltation of Kama Koti Bilwa – 21; Dwadashaadhyaaya- Magnificence of MahaTripura Sundari -22; Trayodashodhyaaya- Eminence of Bhaya Bandhana Janardana -25;Chaturdashaadhyaaya- Shiva’s defeat, Brahma’s blindness and -26 ; Shri Cakra Puja and beneficiaries- Phala Shruti-29.
9) Kurma: Vishnu’s Avatara as Kurma, Lakshmi as Maya and revelation of Tatwa Gyaan (Sage Indradyumna’s prayer to Vishnu included) -3; Evolution of Brahmanda (the Golden Egg) and Features of Supreme Architect -6; Brahmana Dharmas, Ashrama Vidhana and ‘Abhinnata’ (Indivisibility) of Trimurtis -7- Brahma Srishti -9; Devi Mahatmya: Sati and Parvati Rupas and Himavaan’s Stuti to Parvati (Devi Sahasra naamaa Stotra included)-10; Varaha Deva’s Avatara and his rescue of Bhu Devi from Rasaatala-18; Narasimha’s incarnation, Prahlada Bhakti and Andhakasura’s remorse & ‘Ganatwa’ -19;
Vamana Deva’s incarnation and King Bali’s extreme sacrifice -23; Shri Rama’s incarnation, execution of Ravana and installation of Rameshwara Linga -25; King Jayadhwaja’s Vishnu Bhakti and Sapta Rishis assertion for ‘Nishkama Bhakti’ -26; ‘Krishnaavataara’, his worship to Shiva, Vishnu-Shiva Identity & Shiva Linga Mahima (Krishna’s warning not to ignore Shiva Puja and Vyasa’s Stuti to Shiva ) – 28; Varanasi Mahima: Krittivasa, Kaparda, Omkaresha, Madhyasta & Vishwesha Lingas -33; Triveni Sangama (Prayaga) Mahatmya -35; I s h w a r a G i t a: Delineation of Atma Swarupa (Guhya Jnaana) -36; Shiva Bhakti, Shiva Shakti, Shiva Tatwa and Shiva Tandava -39; Unfolding of Ishwara ‘Vibhutis’ (faculties) and Concepts of Pashu-Paasha-Pashupati -42; Rudiments of Yoga Practice and Yoga Mahima (One-ness of Shiva- Narayana re-emphasised) -43; Shraaddha Prakarana: Profile, Significance, Procedure & Do’s and Don’ts -45;Tirtha Mahima: Gaya, Pushkara, Saarasvata, Kaalanjara and many other Tirthas -47; Shiva Linga ‘Patana’ at Deva Daaru Vana, Brahma’s reproof and Munis’ remorse (Brahma extols Shiva Mahima, Stuti by Munis and discourse on Karma Jnaana Yoga) 50 ; Kurma Purana Phala Shruti and Kurma Deva Stuti by Maharshis :53-54.
10) Linga: Invocation -3; ‘Linga’ and ‘Alinga Rupas’ and Primary Creation of Universe -3; ‘Ashtanga Yoga’, the significant means of Shiva Tatwa -5; The Unfolding of Shiva Tatwa and Pancha Mukha, the Five Faced One-7; Connotation of Omkara and Analysis of Shiva’s Body Parts (Vishnu’s Prayers to Maha Deva included) -10; Preface to ‘Lingarchana’, Pancha Yagna and Lingarchana Vidhi -17; Origin of Shiva Linga and Mahima of Atithya, Pativratya, Bhakti and Bhasma ( Apara Stuti to Maha Deva included and Triambika Mantra explained) -19; Maharshi Dadhichi proves superiority of Shiva Shakti to King Kshupa – 23; Birth of Nandeswara and Linga Puja -25; Shiva’s Samishthi Rupa (An integrated Portrait of Ishwara -26; ‘Shiva Sankalpamastu’: Parashara’s ‘Rudraarchana’ and glory to his Vamsha – 27; Maha Deva exterminates Tripurasuraas -28; Pashupata Yoga, Vividha Murti Pratishtha, Shivalayaas & Lingarchana Vidhi -32 ; Paapa Vimochana Vidhi, Uma Maheswara Vrata and other Vrataas (Pashupaasha Vimochana Mantra included) -35; ‘Panchaakshara JapaMahatmya’ and ‘Dhyaana Yagna’ -38; Arishta and Mrityu Suchanaas and precautions like Japas and Tirtha Yatras – 41; Shiva Leelaas: Andhaka pardoned, Bhu Devi rescued, Prahlada saved and Jalandhara killed (Nrisimha Stotra included)-42; Vishnu Krita Shiva Sahasra Naamaavali -44; Sati’s immolation at Daksha Yagna, Shiva-Parvati Kalyana & ‘Vighneshotpatti’ -48; Shiva Tandava (The Cosmic Dance) -50; Bala Muni Upamanyu attains ‘Ganapatya’ as denied milk led to Shiva Bhakti -51; Shivaakshara Mantras, Pashus, their Self Control and Realisation of Pashupati- 51; Shiva’s Vibhutis (counter-parts), Vishwa Rupa, Ashta Rupas & Shiva Tatwa (Shiva’s self-description included) -53; Shiva Mandala Puja -55; -Dhyana -Guru ‘Mukhyata’ -56 ; Diksha Vidhi-57; – Mandala Puja as prescribed -58; Shiva Linga Pratishtha and Mahatmya -59; Varied Swarupas of Gayatri created by Maha Deva -61; Phala Shruti -61; Annexure of Shiva Sahasra Naamaas:62.
11) Markandeya: Markandeya refers Sage Jaimini’s doubts to Holy Birds- 1; Muni Durvasa’s curse to an ‘Apsara’ leads to birth of Holy Birds -1; Why did Draupadi marry the five Pandava brothers? -3; Why did Balarama atone for the Sin of ‘Brahma Hatya’ during his pilgrimage? – 4; Why were the defenceless sons of Draupadi killed in sleep? -4; King Harischandra, an exceptional example of ‘Dharma’ and ‘Satya’ -5; Rivalry of Vasishtha and Vishwamitra and their mutual curses to become birds -7; Evaluation of human lives from birth to death and mystery thereafter! -7; Status of human beings at death, post-life and rebirth – 9; Recycling of further human life-9; Brief Classification of Hells and their experiences -10; Fruits of ‘Paap’ (Sin) and ‘Punya’ (Rewards of Virtues) -11; Examples of Kaushiki and Anasuya as Pativratas -12; Avadhuta Dattatreya as an ‘Avatar’ (Incarnation) -13; Dhruva-Kuvalayashva-Ashvatara: Examples of Devotion, Duty and Decision -14; Duties of a Model King as prescribed by Queen Madalasa -18; Varnashrama Dharma with emphasis on Brahmanas -19; Some significant do’s and don’t’s of human responsibility -20; Queen Madalasa confers Kingship to Alarka -21; King Alarka approaches Dattatreya for solace and guidance -22; Yogadhyaya (Study), Yoga Siddhi (Achievement) & Yogacharya (Practice) -23;‘Arishtas’ (negative premonitions) of death -26; King Alarka transformed as Yogi by Mahatma Dattatreya -26; Creation of the Universe and Destruction -27; Time measurement, Life Span of Brahma and his various Creations -28; Dusshaha the Intolerant, his notorious sons, daughters and grand children -31; Creation of Rudra and his wives; descendants of Manasa Putras -34; Outlines of Manvantaras, ‘Prithvi’ (Earth) and ‘Sapta Dwipas’ -35; Bharata Varsha, its Mountains, Rivers and Territories -36; Pravaraakhya and Varudhini-Swarochi and Swarochisha Manu -37; Swan Couple inspire Swarochi’s renunciation and ‘Padma Vidya’ -40; Accounts of further Manus upto the present Vaivaswata -41; DEVI MAHATMYA -44; Maha Maya enables Vishnu to kill demons of Madhu and Kaitabha -44; Maha Devi destroys Mahishasura and his clan (Gratitude Hymns to Devi included) -46; Shumbha and Nishumbha executed by Maha Devi- ‘Stotras’ of ‘Ya Sarva- Bhuteshu’; ‘Sarva Mangala Maangalye’ and ‘Sarva Swarupey Sarvesey’ -49; Devi Mahatmya ‘Phala Shruti’-58; Future Manus-Daksha, Brahma, Dharma and Rudra Saavarnis -58; Pitras’ ‘Upadesha’ (Instruction) on ‘Garhastya’ (family life)-(‘Pitra Stuti’ included) -59; Bhautya Manu-Prayers by Shanti Vidyarthi to Agni to rekindle ‘Nitya Agni’-61; Manvantara ‘Phala Shruti’ -64; Surya Deva-Vedic Origin, Physical Birth, Wedding and Descendants -65; Surya Mahatmya-An illustration of Rajavardhana (‘Surya Stuti’ included) -68; Some highlights of Surya Vamsa (clan) Kings and their unrelenting Virtues -70; Markandeya Purana ‘Phala Shruti’ -72; Shri Durga ‘Sapta Shloki’ -74.
12) Matsya: Invocation -3; Brahma’s boon to Satyavrata, Matsyavatara, Pralaya, Punah Srishti – 3; How ‘Bhumi’ (Earth) was renamed as ‘Prithvi’? -6; Devi Sati’s self-immolation and her ‘Shakti-Peethaas’-7; Amavasya’s importance for Pitru Devas and link with Veda Vyasa -9; Highlights of Pitru Vamsha and the concept of ‘Shraddhaas’ -10; Chandra’s origin, wedding with Stars, Tara, birth of Budha and progeny – 11; Deva Guru’s son Katch as Daitya Guru to learn ‘Sanjivini Vidya’ – 13; Shiva’s boon to Shukra, Jayanti weds Shukra and Indra’s plan – (Shiva Stuti included) -15; Description of Agni Vamsha and origin of main-line Agnis -20; Agastya and Vasishtha as brothers born of Mitra-Varuna and Urvashi – 20; Features of ‘Nava Grahas’ and procedure of Navagraha Shanti -22; Significance of ‘Vratas’, procedures and their fruits (Anantha Triteeya, Sarasvata, Bhima Dwadashi & Shiva Chaturdasi)-25; Over-view of Sixty Vratas -29; Yudhishtara’s atonement of Kurukshetra killings and Prayaga Tirtha -33;Tripuras harass Devas and get destroyed by Maha Deva -36; ‘Skandopakhyana’ (The Chapter of Skanda Kumara) (Rati Devi’s stuti to Shiva and Devata’s prayer to Skanda) -39; Bhagavan Vishnu’s incarnation as Nrisimha and end of Hiranyakashipu -47; Daityas dominate Devas and Kalanemi terminated by Vishnu -49; Andhakasura’s killing necessitated Shiva to create ‘Matrikas’ -50; Incarnation of Vamana Deva and King Bali’s humiliation -52; (Prayers to Vishnu by Devi Aditi and Brahma included) Varaha Deva uplifts Prithvi from Rasatala ;-57; ‘Kurmavatara’, ‘Amrita Manthana’, Kaalakuta and Devi Mohini (Prayers to Vishnu and Maha Deva included) -59; Basics of ‘Vaastu Shastra’-Origin of Vaastu, methodology of construction and Vaastu Yagna 63; Yama Raja esteems Savitri’s conviction and reverses Satyavan’s death 66; ‘Gotra Pravara’ (Determination of Gothras/Vamshaas and ancestry) – 69; Matsya Purana Phala Shruti -72.
13) Narada: Brief on Primary Creation by Maha Vishnu -3; ‘Shraddha-Bhakti’, the corner stones of Supreme Realisation -4; Sacred Ganga from Vishnu’s feet to Earth by Bhagiratha’s tenacity – 5; Shukla Paksha Dwadashi Vratas from Margasirsha to Kartika Months -7; ‘Sandhyopasana’-Procedure, Meaning and Interpretation -11;‘Yoga’-the proven way of ‘Moksha Prapti’ -15; King Bharata turned ‘Jada’ Bharata who counselled King Souriva on Advaita -17; Six ‘Vedangas’ – the means of knowledge to attain Mukti a) Siksha / Sangeeta -18; b) Kalpa Grandha -19; c) Vyakarana Shastra -21; d) Nirukta Varnana -21; e) Chhandas Shastra -25; f) Jyotisha Shastra – 27 (Jataka Skandha -30) Shukadeva’s mastery of Vedangas and ‘Upadeshas’ by Janaka and Sanatkumara -36; Shiva Darshana- Pashupati, Pashu, Paasha and Prapti -39; Explanation of Mantras, Matrika Nyasas and Deva Puja Vidhi -40; Vratas on specific days for special purposes -45; Special implication of Ekadasha Vrata-the legend of King Rukmanda -49; ‘Ugala Sahasranama’ of Radha-Krishna-52; Over View of ‘Ashtaadasa Puranas’ -67; ‘Phala Shruti’ – 75;
14) Nilamatha: Invocation -3; Close association of Kashmira and Devi Sati-3; Genesis of Sati Desha (Kashmira) and Nagas -4: Vishnu killed Jalodbhava, Kashyapa arranged Naga-Manava Copereation -4; Origin of River Vitasta and several other Rivers in Kashmira – 5; Chandra Deva helped formalisation of Naga-Manava co-existence in Kashmir (An Outline of ‘Pancha Vrata Vidhi included) -8; Worship of Deities on select occasions in Kashmira -10; Phalguna Shukla Paksha Festival -12; Maha Shanti in Chaitra Shukla Paksha and worship to various Devas -13; Piscacha Puja during Chaitra Krishna Paksha and worth of ‘Ira’ flowers -15; Worship of Gautama Buddha as also of Brahmanas on Vaishakha Purnima -16; Worship of Deities coinciding with Month-Star Unions -17; Procedure of Koti Homa by the King of Kashmira -19; Some details of Naga Chiefs and source of Maha Padma Sarovara -20; Quick Account od Places in Kashmira -21;‘Nandyopaakhayana’-Nandeswara born in human form and back to Shiva -23; Legend of Kapoteshwara in Kashmira -26; Vishnu Swarupas in Kashmira -26; Parashurama, his killings of Kshatriyas and connection with Kashmira -27; Tirtha Yatras in Kashmira and their rewards-29; ‘Phala Shruti’ of Nilamatha Purana -31.
15) Padma: ‘Bhagavaananeka eva Janaardana!’-the Unique and the Timeless Unknown- 4; Concept of Time and ‘Brahma Srishti’ (Creation by Brahma) -5; Creation of Eight Vasus, Eleven Rudras, Twelve Adityas, Forty Nine -Maruganas and Fourteen Manus-7;‘Pitras’ and ‘Shraddha Vidhana’ in brief – 9; Highlights of Surya Vamsha and Chandra Vamsha -11; Significance of ‘Pushkara Tirtha’ and ‘Muni Ashramas’ in the vicinity-13; Agastya Muni dries up Ocean and enables to destroy Demon Kalakeya -14;‘Sapta Rishis’ censure self-indulgence and accept Daanas for essentials -15; Markandeya attains ‘Deerghaayu’ and enables Rama’s Vision of ‘Aviyoga’ -17; Lord Shri Rama’s Prayer to Maha Deva -18; Maha ‘Pralaya’, Vishnu kills Madhu-Kaitabha and Creation by Brahma again -19; Birth of Tarkaasura, Shiva’s wedding with Parvati, and Kartikeya’s victory -19; Ideal features of Brahmanas and impact of ‘Gayatri Mantra’ -23; Significance of ‘Rudrakshas’ and ‘Tulasi’ -25; ‘Pitru Bhakti’ leads to Shiva Sharma’s devoted sons to ‘Vishnu Dhaam’ -28; King Vena misdirected and redeemed; Vena and Pruthu-both of lofty virtue -30; ‘Danaas’ and ‘Tirtha Yatras’-Grihastas to perform Punya Karyas together -32; Dialogue of Yayati and Matali about human life and ‘Paapa’ -‘Punyas’ -33; King Yayati discards Indra’s offer to Swarga and prefers ‘Vishnu Dhaam’ -35; Sage Chyavan’s encounter with Parrot Kunjal (Vishnu Shata Namas included) -37; Sacred Parrot Kunjal narrates its previous birth’s account to Sage Chyavan – 40; Broad Geographical delineation of Bharata Varsha -41; Overview of prominent ‘Tirthas’ of Bharat -41; ‘Mahima’ of Bhagavan’s ‘Nama-Kirtanas’, ‘Bhajans’ and ‘Stutis’ – 47; Shri Rama’s departure from Lanka, his Coronation and Rama Rajya -49; Sita’s Paramdhaan and termination of Rama Avatara -58; Quick retrospective of Rama’s episode till Ravana’s extermination -59; ‘Krishna Leelas’ at Vraja, Mathura, Dwaraka and Kurukshetra -63; Shrimad Bhavad Gita ‘Mahatmya’ -70; Matsya, Kurma, Varaha, Nrisimha, Vamana and Parashurama ‘Avataras’ -79; ‘Phala Shruti’ of Padma Purana -83; Shri Vishnu Sahasrana -maavali -84; Shri Rama Shata Namaavali -90.
16) Shiva: -Bhagavan Siva describes Super Force as a Unified Entity of Trimurthis-; ‘Panchakrityas’ (Five Duties) of Main Deities prescribed by Siva- ; The Mighty Power of Omkara and Panchakshari Mantras Worship method of Siva Lingas ;‘Yashya Nisvasitam Vedah’ (Who exhaled Vedas?)-Super Energy creates Vishnu ; Trinity’s Consorts and their Ages; Brahma creates Rudra and Universe ; Bhagavan Siva decided to reside at Kailash nearby Kubera’s abode – ; Links of Devis Sandhya- Arundhati- Sati and Girija- ; Sati Devi’s wedding to Rudra Deva- ; Destruction of Daksha Yagna by Virabhadra- ; Devi Parvati’s wedding with Bhagavan Siva- ; The birth of Kartikeya and the end of Tarakasura- ; Anecdotes of Kartikeya and Ganesha- ; Series of Siva’s victories over Demons- ; Lord Siva’s ten incarnations corresponding to those of Shakti- ; Trinity blesses Sage Atri and Anasuya with triplets- ; Many other incarnations of Lord Siva- ; Description of ‘Dwadasha (Twelve) Jyotirlingas’- ; Upa Lingas- ; ‘Siva Sahasranamas’ (Thousand Names of Siva)- ; ‘Phala Sruti’ of Sivasahasranama Stotra- ; Some Illustrious Devotees to Siva and Special Austerities in Worship- ; Observance of Maha Sivarathri and its significance- ; Steps towards Salvation- ; Siva Gyan – Its Import and the Course- ; Lord Krishna approaches Sage Upamanu for Siva ‘Darshan’- ;
17) Skanda: Mangalaacharana – 1; Devi Sati’s self-immolation and Daksha Yagna destroyed-1; Significance of Siva Puja and similarity of Trimurtis -3; Danavas defeat Devas, churning of Ocean emergence of ‘Amrit’ -4; Devas regain Swarga, Indra commits/ dissolves ‘Brahmahatya’ and reinstated 5; Vritrasura vs. Indra and Sage Dadhichi’s illustrious sacrifice -6; Pradosha Vrata-Procedure of worship to Lord Siva and its ‘Udyapana’ -7; Kartikeya exterminates Tarakasura 9; Skanda’s remorse and ‘Prayaschitta’ ( Atonement) -10; Ashtotthara Naamavali of Kartikeya and ‘Phaka Shruti’-15; Significance of ‘Daan’ (Charity) – Its Profile and Fruits 16; Narada seeks replies to a questionnaire and bestows Brahma’s charity to ‘Kalaap’ 18; King Indradyumna and his ‘Satsang’ Group 21; The famed ‘Shata Rudreeyam’-22; Skanda’s ‘Vijaya Sthambh’ (Tower of Victory) and ‘Siddha Saptaka’ -23; Mahakaal blesses Kumari, Kalabhiti and Karandhama-Supremacy of Trimurtis 28; Procedure of Siva Puja -28; Narada sets up the Idols of Vasudeva and Bhattaditya (Surya Deva) 30 Why had ‘Mahi Sagara Sangama Tirtha’ become a ‘Gupta Kshetra’? -31; Some Tirthas and Kshetras of repute 31 Arunachala ‘Mahatmya’ -32; Venkatachala ‘Mahatmya’ -35; Eight-folded approach to Venkateswara 39 Purushotthama Kshetra (Utkala Khanda) ‘Mahatmya’-40; Badari Kshetra ‘Mahatmya’ -43; Significance of the month of Kartika 46 Margasirsha ‘Mahatmya’ 47 Visakha Month’s Significance 49 Ayodhya ‘Mahatmya’ and the Import of Tirthas around -51; Setu Tirtha (Rameswara Kshetra) 54 Dharmaranya ‘Mahatmya’-Sadachari Brahmanas, Sandhya, Do’s & ‘Donts’ -56; Kamadhenu creates Vaishyas to safeguard and assist Brahmanas -61; Chaturmasya ‘Mahatmya’ and ‘Shodasopacharas’ (Sixteen Services) 61 Siva Mantra, Siva Ratri, Siva Pradosha Vrata and Siva Kavacha- 64; Kashi ‘Mahatmya’-Pride of Vidhyachala suppressed by Sage Agasthya -69; Manasa Tirtha -70; Description of Celestial Worlds 71 Origin and ‘Mahatmya’ of Kasi -75; Avanti Kshetra ‘Mahatmya’ 79 River Narmada’s Origin, significant events ascribed to her ‘Mahatmya’ -80; Viswamitra sends mortal Trishanku to Swarga 83 Origin of Nagara, Shankha Tirtha, Achaleswara / Siddheswara Lingas 84 Most significant ‘Siva Kshetras’ as identified by Maha Deva -85; Origin of Kedara Kshetra and its importance-85 Birth of Viswamitra, cause of his rivalry with Vasishtha and curse to Saraswati 86 Prabhasa Kshetra ‘Mahatmya’ 88 Dwaraka ‘Mahatmya’ 93 Annexure on Vishnu Sahasranama -95.
18) Vamana: Invocation – 3; Kapaali atones at Vaaranaasi for Brahma’s Pancha Mukha Hatya -3; Sati Devi’s self-sacrifice and destruction of Daksha Yagna (Nakshatras and Raashis in terms of Shiva’s body included) -4; Shiva Lingodbhava (Origin of Shiva Linga) and worship – 6; Nara Narayana and Prahlada -7; Dharmopadesha to Daitya Sukeshi, his reformation, Surya’s action and reaction -9; Vishnu Puja on Shukla Ekadashi and Vishnu Panjara Stotra -14; Origin of Kurukshetra, King Kuru and Mahatmya of the Kshetra -15; Bali’s victory of Trilokas, Vamana’s Avatara and Bali’s charity of Three Feet (Stutis by Kashyapa, Aditi and Brahma & Virat Purusha Varnana) -17; Parvati’s weds Shiva, Devi Kaali transformed as Gauri & birth of Ganesha -24; Katyayani destroys Chanda-Munda, Raktabeeja and Shumbha-Nikumbha -28; Kartikeya’s birth and his killings of Taraka, Mahisha and Baanaasuras -30; Kedara Kshetra, MurasurVadha, Shivaabhisheka and Oneness with Vishnu (Upadesha of Dwadasha Narayana Mantra included)-33; Andhakaasura’s obsession with Parvati and Prahlaad’s ‘Dharma Bodha’ – 36;‘Shivaaya Vishnu Rupaaya, Shiva Rupaaya Vishnavey’ -39; Andhakaasura’s extermination by Maha Deva and origin of Ashta Bhairavaas(Andhaka’s eulogies to Shiva and Gauri included) -40; Bhakta Prahlada’s Tirtha Yatras and legends related to the Tirthas -42: Dundhu Daitya and Trivikrama -43;-The Background of King Pururava -44; – Shiva and Vishnu kill Jalodbhava and Origin of Sudarshana and Trishula -45;-Gajendra Moksha -46; Vishnu Panjara, Saarasvata, Paapa Prashamana Stotras by Shiva & Agastya -49;Vamana Deva leaves for Brahma Loka and Brahma’s worship to Vamana -57; Bali Danava in Paatala Lokas and worship to Maha Vamana (Sudarshana Stuti, Prahladaa’s preaching and Vishnu Puja included) -59; Vamana Purana Vachana-Shraavana / Shravana- Pathana Phala Shruti -63.
19) Varaha: Introduction-1; Origin of Creation-2; Exemplary devotion of Priyavrata, Ashvashira, Vasu and Raibhya(Pundarikaaksha and Gadaadhara Mantras included) ; Overview of Lodr Vishnu’s incarnations -5; Rituals of Shraddha (Amavasya Tarpana Mantra included); Regular Annual Shraddha-6; Origin of Deities, specific days for worship and fruitful resusts-7; Creation of Agni Deva, his several names and implication of worship-8; OAdurigin of Ashvini Kumars and their worship on dwiteeya (Narayana Mantra included)-9; Significance of Triteeya as the day of worship of Devi Gauri / Devi Parvati included- 10; Birth of Gajaanana , Priority Invocation and adoration on Chaturthi ( Ganesha Vrata Vidhana included)-11; Adulation of Naga Devatas on every Panchami day; Kartikeya’s worship on Shashthi and its auspiciousness -13; Devotion of Surya on Saptamis (Text of Aditya Hridayam included) -14; Manifestations of Ashta Matrikas and their worship on Ashtamis-15; Devi Durga’s carnage of Vetrasura and her puja on Navami Durga Stuti included -16; Reverence to Dasha Dishas-17; Kubera the Lord of Wealth worshipped on Ekadashi days-18; Adoration to Bhagavan Vishnu on Dwadashi day destroys sins-19; Dharma ( Virtue), its profile over yugas and worship on Trayodashis-20; Manifestation of Rudra Deva and penance on Chaturdashis-21; Reverence to Pitras on Amavasya day and benefits-22; Daksha’s curse to Moon, the latter’s reappearnce and worship-23; Concepts of Bhakti (Devotion) and Aradhana or worship explained-24; Effectiveness of Dwadashi Vratas related to Vishnu’s ‘dashavataras’ (shodasopa -charas included)-25; Bhakti in seeking Lord Vishnu-relevance of Pancha Ratra Gyan;-26; Concept of unity in diversity-Maha Vishnu manifestes in triple forms-27; Genesis of Gautami River and benevolence of Lord Rudra to Sage Gautami-28; Rudra Devas’s realisation of Maha Purusha -Adi Deva Stuti by Rudra Deva included)-29; Manifestation of Thi Shaktis viz. Braahmi- Vaishnavi-Rudrani -30; Significance of Vaishno Devi -Devi Stuti included-31; Tri-Shakti Devi Rudrani (Chamundi Devi Stuti included)-32; Kapaala Vimochan and Rudra Vrata-33; Procedure of Maha Vishnu Vrata-34; Go-daana in various forms-35; Varaha Deva rescues Bhu Devi, His stuti and worship-36; Bhagavan’s quesstionnaire to humanity about the rootf of grief and joy-37; Varaha Deva describes ‘aparaadhaas’-38; ‘Sa-Mantrak Vishnu Puja’-worship to Vishnu by mantras-38; A few illustrations of Vishnu Maya-39; Tirtha Yatras or visits to holy rivers and pilgrim centers-40; Sins and 42 Sins and Remedies- Observance of Vamana Vratha as cures and preventives43 Vishnu Puja-Aparadha Prayaschyas (Correctives for misdeeds) 44 Regulations concerning Last Rites-Pitru Yagna 45 Nachiketas visit to Hell and return 46 Lord Yama advises Narada as to how best to avoid Hell 47 Yamas Prescription to achieve Salvation 48 Phala Shruti 49 Concluding Hymn
20)Vishnu :1 Invocation 2 Vishnu Mahima, Kalpa Srishti, Tatwas and Brahma- Vishnu- Shiva Swarupa 3 Concept of Time, Brahma Srishti and Lakshmi-Vishnus Avinaabhavata (Affinity) 4 Samudra Mathana, Emergence of Lakshmi and Amrita ( Vishnu and Lakshmi Stutis) 5Dhruvopaakhyana 6 Prahlada Charitra- Nrisimhaavataara 7 Jagat Vyavastha (Planning of Universe) and Vishnu Vibhuti (All- Pervasiveness) (Vishnu Maha Stuti included) 8 Brief on Bhugola, Pataala and Narakaas (Ananta Deva Stuti included) 9 Bhurbhuvassuwaadi Lokaas, Surya, Sishumara Chakra and Navagrahas 10 Veda Vriksha, Veda Vyasaas, Veda Vibhajana, Vedangaas and Puranas 11 Yama Gita- A Perfect Endorsement of Vishnu Bhakti 12 Chaturvarna – Chaturaashrama Dharmaas 13 Shraadha Prashamsa, Vivarana and Vidhi 14 Raja Vamsha Vivarana-Description of Surya and Chandra Dynasities 15 Chandra Deva and Chandra Vamsha 16 Shri Krishna Charitra: His birth, Miracles, account of his progeny and Niryana 17 Tapatriayas and Paramartha Swarupa 18 Vishnu Purana Mahatmya and Upasamhara (Significance and Winding-up)
