This (Bharata) is equal to the Vedas; it is holy and excellent; it is the worthiest of all that should be listened to. It is a Purana, adored by the Rishis.
इदं हि वेदैः समितं पवित्रमपि चोत्तमम्। श्राव्याणामुत्तमं चेदं पुराणमृषिसंस्तुतम्॥