An author, mythologist, and illustrator like no other, Devdutt Pattanaik has always been a vocal genius. Be it the way he speaks, the way he enlightens, or the way he expresses his opinions and knowledge to a crowd, he never fails to enchant the people he addresses. His knowledge and understanding of Hindu mythology along with his expertise in explaining complicated material in a simple, lucid manner has earned him widespread recognition. We caught up with the author at an event in Delhi recently for a candid discussion about writing, mythology and more . Here's what Devdutt Pattanaik said:
Q1. As a writer of mythology, how many narratives do you put into perspective before you start writing so as to not invite outrage because the subject is very close to people's hearts and belief systems?
I don't think of outrage! If people get outraged, they are free to be outraged. I am okay with it.
Q2. I personally believe that the West has taken a lot from India. Sometimes with due credits and sometimes without. Do you think Indian and Hindu mythology is something that the West can take from us?
I think we can learn from each other. We are too obsessed with Western thoughts. Most Indians don't even know about Indian thoughts and ideas. Even spiritual gurus, when they are really talking about Indian thought are actually talking about Western thought but using Sanskrit words. When they talk about things like development, ambition, and achievement, these are not Indian ideas; these are Western ideas. I see all the baba ji's and guru ji’s saying ‘I am better than you’ and ‘My country is better than yours’-- these are not Indian ideas at all. So this kind of arrogance, triumphalism, and ego are not Indian ideas.
Q3. When you write, do you ever feel like you connect with any of the characters?
You have to connect with all the characters if you want to do a good job (in writing). Because you see, they are all meant for us. So they are all talking to me in some form or the other and I am trying to figure out what they are trying to communicate, it's like a puzzle that I am trying to solve.
Devdutt Pattanaik is an author and mythologist who became a famous face in the mythology realm when he was featured on Devlok with Devdutt. After that, the ladder has been uphill for him. His narration, knowledge and wisdom are unparalled in the world of mythology and folklore and his books are a treasure trove of knowledge.
