- Canto 1 (Creation): Introduces key characters and philosophical concepts; the prelude (lotus feet of Krishna).
- Canto 2 (Cosmic Manifestation): Covers the universal form and the process of creation (second part of the lotus feet).
- Canto 3 (The Status Quo): Details the creation by Brahma and Vidura-Maitreya dialogues (thighs of Krishna).
- Canto 4 (Creation of Fourth Order): Focuses on the descendants of Manu, including the stories of Dhruva and Prithu.
- Canto 5 (Creative Impetus): Describes the planetary systems, geography, and the story of Rishabhadeva.
- Canto 6 (Prescribed Duties): Features the stories of Ajamila and Vritrasura, focusing on protective dharma.
- Canto 7 (Science of God): Contains the story of Prahlada Maharaja and the protection of devotees.
- Canto 8 (Withdrawal of Creation): Details the Manvantaras (reigns of Manu) and the churning of the milk ocean.
- Canto 9 (Liberation): Narrates the lineages of the sun (Surya) and moon (Chandra) dynasties.
- Canto 10 (Summum Bonum): Describes the birth and divine pastimes of Lord Krishna in Vrindavana and Dvaraka.
- Canto 11 (General History): Covers the destruction of the Yadu dynasty and the final instructions (Uddhava-gita).
- Canto 12 (Age of Deterioration): Details the symptoms of Kali-yuga, ultimate annihilation, and the summary of the SB.
Key Themes by Canto
- 1-2 (Foundation) - Introduction to devotional service, inquiries by sages, and the cosmic manifestation.
- 3-4 (Secondary Creation) - Detailed descriptions of cosmology, the sage Kapila’s teachings, and kings like Dhruva.
- 5-7 (Dharma & Purity) - Stories of Vritrasura and Prahlada, emphasizing surrender to the Supreme Lord.
- 8-9 (Lineages & Avatars) - Stories of Gajendra Moksha, Vamanadeva, and the history of royal dynasties.
- 10-12 (Highest Knowledge) - Krishna’s pastimes, the Uddhava-gita, and the ultimate destruction of the material world.
Significant Content
- 10th Canto: Known as the "smiling face" of the Lord, it is the heart of the Bhagavatam, focusing on Krishna’s lila.
- 12th Canto: Describes the four types of destruction and the glory of chanting the Holy Name in Kali-yuga.
- Padma Purana Analogy: The 12 cantos are interpreted as the limbs of Krishna’s transcendental body.
