Most people hear the words Garuda Purana and immediately think of death, Yamaloka, funeral rituals and what happens after the body dies. But there is a fascinating question hidden inside the name itself: Why is this ancient Hindu text called Garuda Purana?
The answer begins with Garuda, the mighty vehicle of Lord Vishnu. According to the traditional presentation of the text, Garuda becomes the seeker who asks Vishnu profound questions about life, death, karma and the soul's journey. The dialogue between the divine teacher and the curious devotee forms an important part of the text's traditional identity.
