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Introduction
After compiling the Vedic literature, Puranas, etc., Vyasadeva still had a feeling of unfulfillment and dissatisfaction. Narada Muni then went to Vyasadeva and instructed him to write Srimad Bhagavatam. It is considered the most important Purana of the Vedic literature as it describes the various incarnations of Lord Vishnu and gives a very detailed account of Lord Krishna’s life. It is divided into twelve chapters and has 18,000 verses.
After writing the Bhagavatam, also known as Bhagavata Purana, Vysa imparted the knowledge of Bhagvatam to his son Suka Bramha rishi. Sukabrahma rishi subsequently recited the entire Bhagavatam to Maharaja Parikshit in an assembly of learned saints. Maharaja Parikshit was the emperor of the world and was a great saintly king. He received the curse that he would die within a week. Hence he renounced his kingdom and retired to the bank of the Ganges to fast unto death and to receive spiritual enlightenment.
The Bhagavatam starts with Emperor parikshit’s asking Sukabrahma rishi to give him the knowledge of perfection, the right path and liberation. Sukabrahma rishi, in response narrated the Bhagavatam for the seven days – till the king’s death. Several learned saints were present when it was narrated.
The sage Suta who was present in the assembly, later narrated the Bhagavatam to a gathering of sages of Sounagathi in the forest of Naimisaranya. Those sages then spread the wisdom of Bhagavatam to the rest.
According to Skanda Purana, Prabhasa Khanda (7.1.2.39-42), “Whoever makes a copy of the Bhagavatam and donates it, on a golden lion throne, on the full moon day in the month of Bhadra, will attain the supreme destination”.
Om Tat Sat
