Plakṣadvīpa

Plakṣadvīpa is the second of the sapta-dvīpa or seven islands that comprise the terrestrial world according to the cosmic structure of the brahmāṇḍa. It is situated beyond the Lavaṇoda-sāgara (salty ocean) and is completely encircled by the Ikṣuroda-sāgara, which is the ocean of sugarcane juice.

Dimensions and Location

Plakṣadvīpa possesses a width of 200,000 yojanas, which is exactly double the extent of Jambudvīpa. It is arranged as a concentric circle surrounding the inner salt ocean, and its own surrounding ocean, the Ikṣuroda-sāgara, also has a width of 200,000 yojanas. This doubling of dimensions continues throughout the remaining five islands and oceans of the sapta-dvīpa system.

Geographic Divisions or Varṣas

The island was originally assigned to Medhātithi, one of the sons of the sovereign Priyavrata. Medhātithi divided the land into seven distinct regions or varṣas, each named after one of his seven sons. These seven varṣas are Śāntabhaya, Śiśira, Sukhodaya, Ānanda, Śiva, Kṣemaka, and Dhruva.

Principal Mountains

The different varṣas are separated and defined by seven major boundary mountains known as maryādā-parvatas. The first of these is Gomedaka, described as having the appearance of a massive cloud. The second mountain is Candra, which is noted for its abundance of divine medicinal herbs. The remaining five mountains are Nārada, Dundubhi, Somaka, Sumanas, and Vaibhrāja. Vaibhrāja is described as being particularly beloved by Brahmā and is made of brilliant crystal.

Hydrography

Seven primary rivers flow through the various regions of Plakṣadvīpa and eventually enter the surrounding sugarcane ocean. These rivers are known as Anutaptā, Śikhī, Vipāśā, Tridivā, Kramu, Amṛtā, and Sukṛtā. Thousands of smaller tributary streams and lakes also exist throughout the island, providing an abundant water supply for the inhabitants.

The Plakṣa Tree and Worship

The island takes its name from a colossal Plakṣa tree located at its center. This tree is of the same immense proportions as the Jambu tree in Jambudvīpa and is considered the sacred source of the island’s name. Near this tree, an altar of fire with seven tongues is said to be situated. The inhabitants of Plakṣadvīpa are dedicated to the worship of the Lord in the form of Soma. They use the Vedic hymns and rituals to honor this deity, who is viewed as the creator and soul of the universe.

Demographics and Social Order

The population of Plakṣadvīpa is divided into four distinct varnas known as the Āryaka, Kuru, Viviṃśa, and Bhāvin. These groups are identified with the traditional classes of brāhmaṇa, kṣatriya, vaiśya, and śūdra respectively. The people of this island are exceptionally long-lived, reaching a lifespan of 5,000 years. They are described as being free from the afflictions of disease, old age, or fear, and the environmental conditions are said to resemble those of the tretā-yuga perpetually.

Plakṣadvīpa represents a realm of enhanced longevity and virtue compared to the current age of Bhārata-varṣa, with its doubling of physical size reflecting a corresponding increase in the spiritual and physical quality of life for its residents.

Source: Mārkaṇḍeya Purāṇa, Chapters 51 to 54