Devdutt Pattanaik
Introduction
Devdutt Pattanaik is a renowned Indian mythologist, author, and speaker who has made significant contributions to the understanding and interpretation of Indian mythology. His work spans various media, including books, television, and public speaking engagements, where he delves into the rich tapestry of myths, symbols, and traditions that have shaped Indian culture. Pattanaik’s unique approach combines storytelling with scholarly analysis, making complex mythological concepts accessible to a broad audience.
Area of Expertise
Pattanaik’s expertise lies in Indian mythology, where he explores the intricate narratives and symbolic meanings embedded in ancient texts. He has a deep understanding of the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, Mahabharata, Ramayana, and other significant mythological works. His interpretations often highlight the relevance of these ancient stories in contemporary life, emphasizing their philosophical and psychological insights. Pattanaik also examines the cross-cultural connections between Indian mythology and other global mythological traditions.
Books & Publications
Devdutt Pattanaik is a prolific author with over 50 books to his name. Some of his most notable works include:
- “Myth=Mithya: A Handbook of Hindu Mythology” – This book serves as an introduction to Hindu mythology, exploring its symbols, stories, and rituals.
- “Jaya: An Illustrated Retelling of the Mahabharata” – Pattanaik provides a comprehensive and accessible retelling of the Mahabharata, complete with illustrations.
- “Sita: An Illustrated Retelling of the Ramayana” – In this work, he retells the Ramayana from Sita’s perspective, offering new insights into the epic.
- “The Book of Ram” – This book delves into the character of Rama and his significance in Hindu mythology.
- “The Pregnant King” – A novel that explores gender and identity through mythological narratives.
Pattanaik’s writings are known for their clarity, depth, and ability to connect ancient myths to modern-day issues.
Research & Contributions
Beyond his books, Devdutt Pattanaik has contributed significantly to the field of mythology through his research and public engagements. He has written numerous articles for newspapers, magazines, and online platforms, addressing topics related to mythology, culture, and religion. Pattanaik’s research often focuses on decoding the symbolic language of myths and their application to personal and organizational growth. His work in the corporate sector, where he uses mythology to draw parallels between business practices and ancient wisdom, has garnered widespread acclaim.
Awards & Recognitions
Devdutt Pattanaik’s contributions to mythology and literature have been recognized with several awards and honors. Some of his notable accolades include:
- Crossword Book Award for “Jaya: An Illustrated Retelling of the Mahabharata.”
- Indica: The Comprehensive Guide to Indian Mythology Award for his significant contributions to the understanding of Indian mythology.
- Regularly featured in prestigious lists of influential thinkers and cultural commentators in India.
Social Media Profiles
Devdutt Pattanaik maintains an active presence on social media, where he shares his insights and engages with a global audience. His social media profiles include:
- Twitter: @devduttmyth – He frequently posts thoughts on mythology, culture, and current events.
- Instagram: @devduttmyth – Here, he shares visual content related to his work and travels.
- YouTube: Devdutt Pattanaik – His channel features videos on various mythological themes and stories.
- Website: www.devdutt.com – This is a comprehensive resource for his books, articles, and other works.
Bibliographic Sources
- Pattanaik, Devdutt. Myth=Mithya: A Handbook of Hindu Mythology. Penguin India, 2006.
- Pattanaik, Devdutt. Jaya: An Illustrated Retelling of the Mahabharata. Penguin India, 2010.
- Pattanaik, Devdutt. Sita: An Illustrated Retelling of the Ramayana. Penguin India, 2013.
- Pattanaik, Devdutt. The Book of Ram. Penguin India, 2004.
- Pattanaik, Devdutt. The Pregnant King. Penguin India, 2008.
- “Devdutt Pattanaik – Wikipedia.” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devdutt_Pattanaik
- “Devdutt Pattanaik | Official Website.” http://www.devdutt.com