Vedas
The oldest and most revered texts, containing hymns, rituals, and philosophical teachings.
They are divided into four: Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaveda, each with a unique role in rituals and philosophy.
Upanishads
Mystical and philosophical texts that explore the nature of reality, the soul (Ātman), and Brahman.
They form the spiritual core of the Vedas and are foundational to Vedanta philosophy, emphasizing self-realization.
Bhagavad Gita
A dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna on the battlefield, offering guidance on Dharma, Karma, and devotion.
It contains 700 verses and is part of the Mahabharata, offering a synthesis of different paths like Bhakti, Jnana, and Karma Yoga.
Ramayana
The epic story of Lord Rama, teaching ideals of duty, honor, and devotion.
Composed by Valmiki, it narrates Rama’s journey, Sita’s strength, and Hanuman’s devotion, and is deeply embedded in Indian culture.
Mahabharata
The longest epic, encompassing the Bhagavad Gita and moral dilemmas.
It includes 100,000 verses and explores duty (Dharma), righteousness, fate, and the complexity of human behavior.
Puranas
Mythological texts that narrate the lives of deities like Vishnu, Shiva, and Devi.
There are 18 major Puranas, including the Bhagavata Purana and Shiva Purana, blending myth, theology, and historical tradition.