The Padma Purāṇa is one of the eighteen Mahāpurāṇas and is revered for its devotional teachings, mythology, and detailed explanation of dharma. It is named after the lotus (padma)—a symbol of purity, creation, and divine beauty—and is traditionally believed to be narrated by Lord Vishnu. The text is divided into several sections (Khaṇḍas) and covers a wide range of topics: stories of gods and sages, the glory of sacred places (tīrtha-māhātmyas), guidelines for righteous living, descriptions of various lokas, and the significance of major fasts and festivals. A notable part of this Purāṇa praises the greatness of Lord Vishnu and his divine incarnations, promoting bhakti as a path to liberation.
Overall, the Padma Purāṇa is a rich blend of philosophy, devotion, cosmology, and rituals, making it an important text for followers of Sanātana Dharma.