Many
of us who grew up in the 70s and 80s cannot forget Amar Chitra Katha (ACK). Uloopi,
Chitrangada , the beautiful pictures of Sita and other princesses, the unique
sounding names, Pingalaka, Bhasuraka, the beauty of Malavika of Kalidasa – each
one has a special place in my life. More than History lessons in school, I
learnt about Baji Rao and Kannagi from Amar Chitra Katha.
Such
was the allure of the pictures and stories that my father used to bring one or
two titles every month. There used to be competition among classmates and
friends on the titles one possessed. Titles were exchanged, to be read and
enjoyed. It was a matter of pride to possess titles of ACK.
My
initiation into mythology was through ACK only. I was attracted towards Indian
mythology and the intriguing stories of the great heroes and heroines like Rani
Lakshmi Bai, Rani Padmini inspired me no end.
By
the way, once upon a time it was fashionable to be knowledgeable about Indian
mythology. I wonder why it is no longer
so now. Why the gen Y, gen X gen Z are running after angry birds, Pokemon, Doremon
and other monsters? What is not there in
mythology to attract the active minds of youngsters? Mythology has alluring
beautiful ladies, great warriors, black villains, breathless adventure,
exciting action and to top these all, values and life skills to follow and
imbibe.
How
many of the young generation knows the story of Ramayana and Mahabharata? Why
do they consider that it is infra dig to know about two of the greatest epics? Is
it not the duty of the schools, teachers and parents to introduce mythology to
the young generation?
All
the schools make it a point to have life skill activities. What better way to
introduce life skills and smart thinking than stories of Panchatantra and Hitopadesha? So many
competitions are being organized in schools. They have themes in the morning
assembly, themes for their annual function, themes like sustainable living,
green and clean world etc. these topics again have become fashionable. These
can be taught in a wonderful manner with the use of interesting stories from
the mythology as well as panchatantra / Hitopadesha.
Planting
and preservation of trees are made sacred in religious functions Indians have
worshipped trees, we have tied sacred threads around them, we have taken
shelter under them, have held social ceremonies around these, offered these
water, milk and sometimes even cow dung.
In
short, I mean to say that today’s children are ignorant of mythology, their importance
and relevance in today’s time. This ignorance is not bliss. This is nothing but
ignorance which can be rectified to make a positive impact on the society.
Connect the mythology to science, art, social science and of course literature
too. It is a wealth of knowledge and wisdom. Use them wisely to overcome the
evils of society.
