'Badarika Khand' is a part of which Purana?

The correct answer is Skanda Purana.

Key Points

• Badarika Khand is a prominent section of the Skanda Purana, which is one of the largest Mahapuranas in Hindu literature.
• The Skanda Purana is dedicated to Lord Kartikeya (Skanda), the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and contains various stories and teachings.
• It is divided into multiple Khandas (sections), with Badarika Khand primarily focusing on the sacred Badarikashrama (Badrinath) region and its significance in Hinduism.
• This Purana extensively details the spiritual importance of pilgrimages and sacred sites, including the Badarikashrama, which is associated with Lord Vishnu and Adi Shankaracharya.
• As per Hindu tradition, the Skanda Purana is revered for its detailed explanation of dharma (righteousness), devotion, and the significance of holy places.

Additional Information

• Skanda Purana:
  • It is considered one of the 18 Mahapuranas in Hindu literature.
  • The text is attributed to Sage Vyasa and consists of over 81,000 verses, making it one of the largest Puranas.
  • It is divided into seven Khandas, including Maheshwara Khanda, Vishnu Khanda, and Brahma Khanda.
  • The Purana promotes devotion (Bhakti) towards Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu and highlights the significance of rituals and pilgrimages.
• Badarikashrama (Badrinath):
  • Badarikashrama, also known as Badrinath, is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Himalayas.
  • It is one of the Char Dham and Chhota Char Dham pilgrimage sites, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
  • According to Hindu mythology, the site is associated with the penance of Lord Narayana under a Badari tree (Indian Jujube tree).
  • Adi Shankaracharya revived the temple and propagated the significance of the Char Dham yatra.
• Puranas:
  • The Puranas are ancient Hindu texts that discuss cosmology, mythology, genealogy, and sacred traditions.
  • There are 18 Mahapuranas and an equal number of Upa-Puranas, each focusing on specific deities, philosophies, or sacred places.
  • The Puranas are written in Sanskrit and are often attributed to Sage Vyasa.
  • They serve as a source of religious knowledge, cultural history, and spiritual teachings.
• Lord Skanda (Kartikeya):
  • Lord Skanda, also known as Kartikeya, is the commander of the divine army and the son of Lord Shiva and Parvati.
  • He is worshiped as the god of war and victory, particularly in South India, where he is known as Murugan.
  • The Skanda Purana celebrates his achievements and his role in defeating the demon Tarakasura.
  • He is depicted riding a peacock and holding a spear, symbolizing valor and strength.