Relevance of Mythology today

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.