The Srimad Bhagavatam (Bhagavata Purana) is structured as a conversation between Sage Shukadeva (Shukdeva) and King Parikshit. This dialogue occurs when Parikshit, cursed to die in seven days, retreats to the banks of the Ganges to hear the sacred text. Shukadeva recites the Bhagavatam to him, explaining devotion, Krishna's stories, and the path to liberation. This framing device is central to how the Purana is presented.