Shankhashira, Śaṅkhaśira: 1 definition
Introduction:
Shankhashira means something in Hinduism, Sanskrit. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.
The Sanskrit term Śaṅkhaśira can be transliterated into English as Sankhasira or Shankhashira, using the IAST transliteration scheme (?).
In Hinduism
Purana and Itihasa (epic history)
Source: JatLand: List of Mahabharata people and placesŚaṅkhaśira (शङ्खशिर) is a name mentioned in the Mahābhārata (cf. I.31.12, I.35) and represents one of the many proper names used for people and places. Note: The Mahābhārata (mentioning Śaṅkhaśira) is a Sanskrit epic poem consisting of 100,000 ślokas (metrical verses) and is over 2000 years old.
Source: Shodhganga: Kasyapa Samhita—Text on Visha Chikitsa (itihasa)Śaṅkhaśira is the name of a Serpent (sarpa) mentioned in the thirty-fifth chapter (verses 4-17) of the Ādiparva of the Mahābhārata.—Accordingly, Sauti, on being implored by Śaunaka to name all the serpents in the course of the sarpa-sattra, tells him that it is humanly impossible to give a complete list because of their sheer multiplicity; but would name the prominent ones in accordance with their significance [e.g., Śaṅkhaśira].
The Purana (पुराण, purāṇas) 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.
See also (Relevant definitions)
Starts with: Shankhashiras.
Full-text: Shankhashiras.
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Search found 2 books and stories containing Shankhashira, Śaṅkhaśira, Sankhasira; (plurals include: Shankhashiras, Śaṅkhaśiras, Sankhasiras). You can also click to the full overview containing English textual excerpts. Below are direct links for the most relevant articles:
Mahabharata (English) (by Kisari Mohan Ganguli)
Section XXXV < [Astika Parva]
List of Mahabharata people and places (by Laxman Burdak)