Myth = Mithya: A Handbook of Hindu Mythology

Myth = Mithya: A Handbook of Hindu Mythology by Devdutt Pattanaik is a guide tailored for readers to understand the vast and often confusing array of Indian Mythological Lore.

Summary of the Book

Devdutt Pattanaik is a leading expert and writer on India’s ancient scriptures and traditions, and this book of his explores the intriguing and often paradoxical world of Indian Mythology.

Through the course of their descent down countless generations, mythological stories are often treated as works of fantasy, and in order to break this down and provide some clarity on what’s fact and what’s fiction, Pattanaik delves into the smaller details and explains them with succinct ease.

In the book, Pattanaik attempts to explain common Hindu symbols and traditions, and he also explores the meanings behind rituals that are followed by Hindus. The book includes interesting snippets about Indian culture, the potential of the human soul to reach perfection, and the concepts of life and death.

Why do Hindus believe in one Supreme God, but have 330 million Gods overall?

Is there a place beyond hell that Hinduism talks about?

Why were the righteous Pandavas banished to hell, while the Kauravas were sent to heaven?

The book includes illustrations sketched by the author as these give him the freedom to explain the finer aspects of Hinduism easily.

About Devdutt Pattanaik

Devdutt Pattanaik is a well known authority on the subject of Indian Mythology. He is a doctor who gave up his practice to devote his attention to his passion – Hindu Mythology.

Devdutt Pattanaik has authored many books on the subject and some of these include:

The Pregnant King
Shiva: An Introduction
Vishnu: An Introduction
Jaya: An Illustrated Retelling of the Mahabharata

The author uses a simple style to convey the ideas behind the often complex world of Hindu symbolism, traditions and stories. His narrative style, accompanied by his own line drawing illustrations, adds value to his books.

Devdutt Pattanaik grew up in Mumbai and graduated with a degree in medicine from Grant Medical College. He later studied Comparative Mythology at Mumbai University.
After working in the Healthcare industry for 14 years, he turned his attention to the wisdom and insights contained in the ancient Hindu texts. He started to write books and columns on the subject and has also delivered many lectures on Indian mythology.