शास्त्र
Scriptures that preserve ritual, epic narrative, philosophy, and devotional cosmology.
c. 1500–1200 BCE · Vedic Sanskrit
Oldest of the four Vedas, a collection of hymns praising deities, cosmic order (ṛta), and the fire ritual. Foundation of Hindu philosophical and ritual thought.
c. 1200–900 BCE · Vedic Sanskrit
Prose and verse formulas recited during yajña (sacrificial rituals). Exists in Shukla (White) and Krishna (Black) recensions.
Veda of melodies—verses set to music for chanting during soma rituals. Considered the root of Indian classical music traditions.
Includes hymns, charms, and incantations for healing, protection, and daily life—reflecting popular religion alongside priestly ritual.
c. 500 BCE – 100 CE (traditional: Treta Yuga) · Sanskrit
Adikavya—the first poem—narrating Rama's exile, Sita's abduction, and the war with Ravana. Composed by Valmiki, retold across dozens of languages.
c. 400 BCE – 400 CE · Sanskrit
Longest epic poem ever written, chronicling the Kurukshetra war between Pandavas and Kauravas. Contains the Bhagavad Gita, Anushasana Parva, and countless sub-stories.
c. 200 BCE – 200 CE · Sanskrit
Krishna's counsel to Arjuna on the battlefield—synthesizing karma yoga, bhakti yoga, and jnana yoga into a guide for righteous action amid moral crisis.
c. 800–200 BCE · Sanskrit
Philosophical texts appended to the Vedas exploring Brahman (ultimate reality), Atman (self), and moksha (liberation). Over 200 exist; 13 are principal.
c. 800–1000 CE · Sanskrit
Most celebrated Purana, devoted to Vishnu/Krishna. The tenth skandha narrates Krishna's childhood lilas; the work is central to Vaishnavism and kirtan traditions.
c. 400–1000 CE · Sanskrit
Shaiva Purana detailing Shiva's manifestations, the linga's significance, pilgrimage sites, and stories of devotees like Markandeya.
c. 400–600 CE · Sanskrit
Also called Durga Saptashati or Chandi Path—glorifies the Goddess as supreme Shakti who conquers Mahishasura, Shumbha, and Nishumbha.
c. 300–500 CE · Sanskrit
Among the oldest Puranas, presenting Vishnu as supreme, describing cosmic ages (yugas), and recounting avatars systematically.