Garuda Purana And Other Hindu Ideas Of Death, Rebirth And Immortality

by Devdutt Pattanaik

Why do Hindus feed their ancestors? Why is burning the dead preferred to the building of tombs? Are Swarga and Naraka not the Hindu equivalent of Heaven and Hell? Does Hinduism have a concept like Judgement Day? What is the impact of death on Hindu notions of womanhood and caste?

Is the Vedic approach to death different from the Tantric one? What is the difference beTween bhuta, pishacha, preta, pitr and vetala?

Ideas of death, rebirth and immortality are embedded in the Hindu mind through ritual and story. Death is not just tragic, but ambiguous too. It is the end of one journey, and also the beginning of another. The dead are venerable, yet death is inauspicious, a source of impurity.

In Garuda Purana and Other Hindu Ideas on Death, Rebirth and Immortality, Devdutt Pattanaik explores the many concepts around death across the spectrum of Hindu mythology, tracing the roots of certain practices to as far back as the Harappan times. A unique enquiry into the Hindu response to death, the book serves as a guide to the choices we make in life.

Genres: Nonfiction, Mythology, Spirituality, Religion, Death

277 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 900

About the author

Dr. Devdutt Pattanaik (born December 11, 1970) is an Indian physician turned leadership consultant, mythologist and author whose works focus largely on the areas of myth, mythology, and also management. He has written a number of books related to Hindu mythology, including Myth = Mithya: A Handbook of Hindu Mythology, a novel, The Pregnant King, and Jaya: An Illustrated Retelling of the Mahabharata (2010).
He is the Chief Belief Officer of Future Group, one of India’s largest retailers, bringing the wisdom of Indian mythology into Indian business, especifically in human resource management. He also writes a column for the newspaper MID DAY.
He has also written a novel based on a tale from the Mahabharata titled 'The Pregnant King' published by Penguin Books India

Reviews

[Shubhangi Negi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Growing up in a strict religious and ritualistic household as well as town, as a child I had a lot of questions regarding the reasons on why we do follow certain rituals etc.. I was never given a reason clearly but this book has clarified all those questions without any bias.
Now I am at peace 😄

[Savita Ramsumair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Astounding

A very precise and informative book that makes you think about what really is important in life. This book has also answered many of my questions on death rituals in Hinduism.

[Prabhat sharma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Garuda Purana and Other Hindu Ideas on Death, Rebirth and Immortality (Paperback) by Devdutt Pattanaik- This book bring before the reader a simplified and insightful idea on the Hindu book of death, remorse and rebirth. It is known that Garuda Purana is recited in all Hindu houses after the death of a person in post funeral ceremonies. Hindus believe in rebirth. This book attempts to help the reader to understand the old practices followed until today for 'Pitrs' i.e., one's ancestors. This book gives us a perspective on the thoughts or the concepts that existed around these rituals while the society was evolving. The book bring light the importance and relevance of these ceremonies followed by our generations. Death is a new beginning, and all the rituals and practices are actually the attempts done by the living for their dead to enable a new journey for them. This book demystifies the complicated cycle of life, death and rebirth and inspire us to make better choices while we live. The following questions posed by readers are replied in this book- (1) Why do Hindus feed their ancestors? (2) Why is burning the dead preferred to the building of tombs? (3) Are Swarga and Naraka not the Hindu equivalent of Heaven and Hell? (4) Does Hinduism have a concept like Judgement Day? (5) What is the impact of death on Hindu notions of womanhood and caste?
Ideas of death, rebirth and immortality are embedded in the Hindu mind through ritual and story. Death is not just tragic, but ambiguous too. It is the end of one journey, and also the beginning of another. The book is a unique enquiry into the Hindu response to death, the book serves as a guide to the choices we make in life. For a questioning new generation, the book has answers for the reader to understand and follow in life. The book is a good read for readers of all age groups.

[Shabana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overlapping across understanding the concept of death and lokas, Yamas kindgom and his dhoots and its functioning, the book traverses across multiple aspects of death and life after death. On various references to the Puranas, Ramayan and Mahabharata the book manages to keep the axis of the topic steady touching significance of post death rituals, construction of shrines, death and untouchability, fear of the dead, immortality through Sanjeevani mantra and Amrit.
The elements of Bhuta, pischacha, preta vetalas is however well explained also touching about rural customs and myths and about how offerings of footwear and blankets is made to such Demi gods in Goa, Konkan belts

Interesting Excerpts from the book :
All organisms act to survive. But humans know that they live in an ecosystem of debt. Repayment of what we owe others liberates us.

When one breaks free from attachment judgement liking disliking loving hating, when one is truly generous materially and emotionally one can sit anywhere and be liberated enough to welcome death without fear. There is no yearning for paradise or fear of hell no aspiration or terror just peace. This is moksha according to the Garuda Purana.

[Nandini Reddy Dayal · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book details the various rituals, beliefs and customs followed by Hindus in terms of death. The concept of rebirth and immortality in the Hindu context is explained with comparison to other world religions. The book is a great place to start exploring these ideas as it broadly introduces the concepts and the their origins.

I have always liked Pattanaik's approach to mythology and rituals. It has always been practical and factual and less emotional, which is what appealed to me the most. I have participated in so many death rituals of family without fully understanding the meaning or purpose. It was rarely explained by elders or dismissed as it is done this way because I don't think anyone knew the real purpose. It was nice to finally understand the beliefs behind the rituals.

Definitely a good author to read if you want to understand the rituals, origin stories, and beliefs that built Hinduism.

[Alan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is more of an introduction to Hinduism than it is an exploration of the Garuda Purana.

That said, Pattanaik's short book does a great job of underlining the core ideas of Hinduism, the meaning of death, and Hinduism's similarities and differences concerning other religious systems.

My main criticism of this text is that the book is a bit all over the place. It's unclear when Pattanaik is talking about the Garuda Purana or when he is talking about some secondary Hindu idea or story that is needed in order to understand the Garuda Purana.

I would have also liked more direct citation and reference to the Garuda Purana to get a clearer sense of the style and intent of the original text.

[Alka Agarwal · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very easy read finished it in 2 days. Maybe because growing up as a Hindu you are already familiar with the concept of rebirth. But even for non Hindus the writer explains the concept in a very simple easy to read storytelling format. Examples of incidents from the scriptures and epics makes it lively, entertaining and engaging .

It is profound yet informative and funny.

A must read for everyone. Specifically for all embarking on the spiritual path or simply if you want your questions answered. We all have questions in our mind about a lot of things we have grown up hearing, but never got answers .

[Darshan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Death is one of the most enigmatic quandaries of all time. What is death? How does it function? How to escape death? These are some of the questions that the author has tried to answer in his Book. Garuda Purana is considered to be an ancient book of Death which deals with rituals and ceremonies for the person who had died. Devdutt Pattanaik enlightens readers about the Hindu Ideas of death, rebirth and immortality, while also drawing corollaries to contemporary Christian, Islamic and Harappan beliefs of death.

[Roshni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoughtful, non-dogmatic, thought-provoking

Absolutely loved this book. A well-researched perspective of the Garuda Purana and views of Hinduism on death and the afterlife in an empowering, non-literal way that explores concepts rather than translation. I particularly liked how it explores the evolution of different practices overtime, and different points of view which are all valid. Absolutely recommend.

[Booksaddict2020 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a graceful exploration of the timeless wisdom embedded in Hindu thought. It doesn’t attempt to preach or complicate; instead, it gently opens the door to the profound mysteries of existence — who we are, where we come from, and what lies beyond. The author presents ancient ideas with clarity and respect, bridging philosophy and faith in a way that feels both personal and universal.

What stands out most is the simplicity with which complex truths are conveyed. Rather than overwhelming the reader with theology, it invites reflection — to pause, ponder, and perhaps find our own meaning within these age-old beliefs. Each chapter feels like a quiet conversation between the seeker and the self, touching upon the eternal cycle of birth, death, and rebirth that defines human existence.

It’s a book that lingers with you long after you’ve turned the last page — not just as knowledge, but as a feeling, a whisper of something greater than the self.
A beautifully written and deeply contemplative read, perfect for those drawn to spirituality, philosophy, and the vast ocean of Hindu wisdom.

[Sobham Panja · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book definitely gives an overview of the original Garuda Purana. One might find the answers to why and what are the reasons behind various rituals that are being performed even today. Don't expect extreme details in 150 pages, but surely it will provide you with knowledge and wisdom. Highly recommended !!

[Mangesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Devdutt Patnaik has done a wonderful job by compiling this book. It answers all questions one might have (though not in too much detail) about Hindu ideas on death, rebirth and immortality. Where required comparisons with other faiths is offered to provide clarity on differences in beliefs. Definite read.

[Gooogleion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since most people avoid discussing death, their lives lack meaning. And suddenly we realise there is a risk in incidence of depression, anxiety and post traumatic stress disorder!
I want people to discuss death. I want them to talk frankly to each other about death because when they will talk they’ll understand that they matter!

[Vaishali · Rating 3 out of 5]

Slightly mixed emotions about this one. Fascinating read but some parts are difficult to digest. Great writing and organization by the author, would have loved more details and analysis in some parts.

[Munish Handa · Rating 3 out of 5]

A pleasant and easy read of the original Puran.

[Ritobina Chakraborty · Rating 4 out of 5]

For nothing belongs to anyone. All that is grabbed will be left behind. All that is remembered will be forgotten.

[Nandini Dogra · Rating 3 out of 5]

More opinions and cross connections than text. But can work well as a non-academic/commercial introduction to literature on death/sociology of death and the garud puran

[Viswadutt · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is an interesting book that covers the seldom spoken rituals, and myths about death. The pictures/illustrations drawn by the author are cute :)

[S Naik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome

Thanks for a very insightful and clear explanation of the Purana. It contained the depth I needed to understand what happens to souls that have departed.

[Praveen Sharma · Rating 3 out of 5]

Provides good details, but the flow of the book can be confusing

[Rahul Gurav · Rating 4 out of 5]

Must read to know about Hindu rituals about death, enchiriching to mind !!

[Deepak Yadav · Rating 4 out of 5]

great book that tells a lot of facts and help us understand death and how we can help our ancestors to sail through their journey in another world

[always_a_stark · Rating 5 out of 5]

safe to say this book gave me a new perspective on life, which I hadn't experienced before.

[Snigdha · Rating 3 out of 5]

The only criticism I have for this book is, the unnecessary music played behind in the audiobook, too distracting. Also could have been longer, with more explanation and details on each section.

[Dishant Boora · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a good informative book. Short and on point ! Language is easy and simple.

[Madhavan · Rating 1 out of 5]

Quite boring

[Sonia Nair · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overdue review post!
Garuda Purana by Devdutt Pattanaik brings to us a simplified version of the Hindus ideas on rebirth, remorse and death.
This book helps us demystify the cycle of life>death>rebirth and also to guide us to make a better choice while we live. This book educate us on reasons why certain prayer or ritual has to be done in certain ways.
This is a good book for the questioning younger generations.
My only criticism is that- the book is a bit all over the place and I felt there were repetitions and draggy. It would have been a great if certain chapters or parts were explained detailed especially on the types of punishment given to the wrong doings and karma.
Other than that, it’s a good read 😉

[Shweta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Garuda Purana's interpretation and exploration by Devdutt Pattnaik brings to us a simplified and insightful work on the Hindu book of death, remorse and rebirth.It is believed that when Garuda Purana is recited post funeral ceremonies it fills the relatives or family of the deceased with fear and suspicions both.

Through the comparative analysis of Hindu and other religious beliefs of death, rebirth and rituals for both dying and living, the author attempts to help the reader understand the age-old practices followed until today for 'Pitrs' i.e. one's ancestors .It gives us a perspective on the thoughts or the concepts that existed around these rituals while the society was evolving but now with all the needs of survival fulfilled for mankind, they are being viewed as superfluous with not much value or relevancy attached to them for each passing generation.

Death, which is always portrayed as dark or morbid, through this book Devdutt shows us how death is viewed as a new beginning by Hindu Puranas and all the rituals and practices are actually the attempts done by the living for their dead to enable a new journey for them.

Thus, I believe the examination of these ideas presented by Devdutt Pattnaik in this unique book can help us demystify the complicated cycle of life, death and rebirth and inspire us to make better choices while we live.

[Naveen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting and informative.
Learned a lot and now have more appreciation for the rituals, not because they make total sense but because they a lot of history. they captures a glimpse of fear , aspirations and need for comfort of our ancestors in past 4000 years.
There are also a lot of facts i found very wierd in an intriguing way. Overall nice and light read.