Significance of Pushpaka

Pushpaka is a significant concept in various traditions, primarily associated with Jainism, Vastushastra, Purana, and Mahayana. In Jainism, it represents both the celestial chariot used by Rama and Lakshmana to return to Ayodhya, and Ravana's flying chariot symbolizing power. In Vastushastra, it is portrayed as a rectangular Vimana for deities, while in Purana, it refers to Rama's aerial chariot symbolizing victory. In Mahayana, Pushpaka is a self-moving celestial chariot, further emphasizing its connections with divine transport and significance in ancient narratives.1
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In Dutch: Pushpaka; In German: Pushpaka; In Finnish: Pushpaka; In Spanish: Pañuelo

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Pushpaka'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, Pushpaka represents a self-moving celestial chariot linked to Kuvera, symbolizing divine transportation and swiftness, embodying the notion of speed in spiritual journeys and celestial realms.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: The gods of northern Buddhism

(1) A self-moving celestial chariot believed to be associated with Kuvera, symbolizing speed and divine transport.[1]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Hindu concept of 'Pushpaka'

Hinduism Books

Pushpaka in Hinduism symbolizes divine transport, representing victory and celestial favor. It is depicted as an aerial chariot used by Rama, embodying beauty, speed, and the grace of divine beings, facilitating significant journeys.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)

(1) The golden chariot that is personified as a presiding Deity, summoned by Rama for his journey.[2] (2) An aerial chariot that serves Rama, arriving from Kuvera's abode to offer its service.[3] (3) The name of the splendid chariot, known for its beauty and remarkable qualities.[4]

From: Harivamsha Purana

(1) Kuvera's celestial vehicle, known for its beauty and speed.[5]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Vastushastra (architecture):
Vastushastra Books

From: Samarangana-sutradhara (Summary)

(1) The rectangular Vimana designed by Brahma, serving the deities.[6]

Vastushastra refers to the ancient Indian science (shastra) of architecture (vastu), dealing with topics such architecture, sculpture, town-building, fort building and various other constructions. Vastu also deals with the philosophy of the architectural relation with the cosmic universe.

Jain concept of 'Pushpaka'

Jainism Books

In Jainism, Pushpaka is interpreted as Ravana's city, a mythical chariot symbolizing power and resources, a vehicle showing Sita's delightful places, and a celestial mode of transportation linking divine assistance with spiritual elevation.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) The mythical chariot taken by Ravana, symbolizing power and reliance on one's resources during conflict.[7] (2) Ravana's city likened to the moon, noted for bringing joy and richness to those within it.[8] (3) The flying chariot owned by Ravana that he used to show Sita various pleasurable places, attempting to win her over.[9] (4) An aerial car used by Dashakandhara to transport Sita after she is kidnapped.[10] (5) A celestial chariot that Rama and Lakshmana used to travel back to Ayodhya.[11]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

The concept of Pushpaka in local and regional sources

History Books

Pushpaka, as mentioned in the text, refers to a celestial chariot from the Ramayana linked to goddess Lakshmi, often represented in sculptures, symbolizing divine transport and grandeur.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) A mythical flying chariot, indicating the mode of transport used by Rama and Sita in their journey.[12] (2) The mythical aircraft referenced in the Ramayana, associated with the victorious hero returning home.[13] (3) The celestial chariot described in the Ramayana, associated with the goddess Lakshmi and depicted in sculptures.[14]