Question

What is the total number of Upapuranas according to the standard and generally accepted tradition?

• A. Trimshat (30)
• B. Shat-trimshat (36)
• C. Ashtadasha (18)
• D. Dasha (10)

Hint:

Remember the "Golden Number" 18 in Sanskrit literature. If a question asks for the count of Puranas, Parvas, or Upapuranas, 18 is almost always the intended answer.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Puranic literature is divided into two main categories: the Mahapuranas (Major Puranas) and the Upapuranas (Minor or Secondary Puranas). Just as there is a standardized list of eighteen Mahapuranas, the tradition also maintains a standardized count for the Upapuranas. This ensures a symmetrical and sacred structure to the Puranic corpus.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The generally accepted number of Upapuranas is eighteen (Ashtadasha). This number mirrors the eighteen Mahapuranas, eighteen Parvas of the Mahabharata, and eighteen chapters of the Bhagavad Gita. The Upapuranas are considered auxiliary texts that expand on the themes found in the major Puranas or focus on specific regional deities and local traditions.
According to the Kurma Purana, the names of these 18 Upapuranas are:
1. Sanatkumara, 2. Narasimha, 3. Brihan-naradiya, 4. Shiva-rahasya, 5. Durvasa, 6. Kapila, 7. Vamana, 8. Varaha, 9. Kalika, 10. Maheshvara, 11. Samba, 12. Saura, 13. Parashara, 14. Maricha, 15. Bhargava, 16. Nandi, 17. Surya, 18. Vishnudharmottara (the list varies slightly in different texts like the Devi-Bhagavata).
The Upapuranas are primarily sectarian in nature. For instance, the Samba Purana is dedicated to the worship of the Sun God, while the Kalika Purana is a central text for the Shakta (Goddess-worshipping) tradition. Despite being called "minor," many of these texts are voluminous and carry significant authority in specific regions of India.
While some scholars suggest higher numbers like 36 (Option B) or even more by including local 'Sthala Puranas', the canonical number recognized in Sanskrit literature and traditional lists is Ashtadasha (18). This consistency in the number eighteen emphasizes the completeness and divine order of the Puranic tradition.

Step 4: Final Answer:
The total number of Upapuranas is Ashtadasha (18).