[Solved] Kalika Purana and Shaktism | Hindu Minor Puranas

With which religion is Kalika Purana associated?

[M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2018]

⚡ Generate AI Quick Summary

Correct Option: B

The Kalika Purana is associated with Shaktism, a Hindu tradition focused on the worship of the Goddess (Shakti). It is an important minor Purana for the Shakta sect.

A. Vaishnavism

B. Shaktism

C. Buddhism

D. Jainism

Analysis & Evidence

Concept

The Puranic tradition is split into major (Mahapuranas) and minor (Upapuranas) texts, each serving as the primary scripture for different sects like Shaivism, Vaishnavism, and Shaktism.

Authentic Source Evidence

The Kalika Purana (or Kali Purana) is one of the eighteen minor Puranas. It is a central text of the Shaktism tradition, focusing on the worship of the Goddess (Shakti/Devi).

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: The text is particularly associated with the Kamarupa (Assam) region and centers on the myth of Sati and the Kamakhya Temple.

Logic 2: It describes rituals, mantras, and the origin of several forms of the Goddess, making it a foundational text for the Shakta cult in Northeast India.

Historical Logic Quest

"What is the primary geographical focus of the Kalika Purana?"

It centers on Northeast India, particularly the ancient region of Kamarupa (modern Assam), and the worship of Mother Goddess Kamakhya.

The Topper's Edge

"The Kalika Purana helped codify local tribal and regional goddess worship into the broader Brahmanical Puranic framework."

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