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Devdutt Pattanaik

Devdutt Pattanaik

He writes and lectures on the relevance of mythology in modern times. Email: devdutt.pattanaik@mid-day.com

Articles

Buddhas no one talks about

Buddhas no one talks about

For example, no one tells us that Ashoka visited sites linked to TWO Buddhas, not just the one!... [Read More]

08 June,2025 06:51 AM IST | Mumbai | Devdutt Pattanaik
Forgotten Mandala kingdoms

Forgotten Mandala kingdoms

Tamil merchants even built a Shiva temple in Quanzhou, China, around 700 years ago.... [Read More]

25 May,2025 08:20 AM IST | Mumbai | Devdutt Pattanaik
Incomplete Marriages

Incomplete Marriages

Of course, it is difficult to corroborate. What is interesting, however, is that the folklore speaks of an incomplete marriage... [Read More]

11 May,2025 07:02 AM IST | Mumbai | Devdutt Pattanaik
Whose shrine is it, anyway?

Whose shrine is it, anyway?

At the same time, the Bodh Gaya site has only been partially handed over to the Buddhists—with Brahmins still playing a key role in the management... [Read More]

27 April,2025 07:41 AM IST | Mumbai | Devdutt Pattanaik
Secrets of goddesses and trees

Secrets of goddesses and trees

There are other influences (pre-Aryan tribal, Jain, Hindu, Islamic) that can be seen in Chamundeshwari temple of Mysore kings.... [Read More]

20 April,2025 07:52 AM IST | Mumbai | Devdutt Pattanaik
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Photos

PICS: Frederick Forsyth passes away; here are 5 lesser-known facts about him

PICS: Frederick Forsyth passes away; here are 5 lesser-known facts about him

Celebrated British author Frederick Forsyth passed away on June 9. While he is most popularly known for `The Day of the Jackal`, Forsyth was a person of many talents, and here are some unique facts you need to know about him... [Read More]

10 June,2025 03:35 PM IST
IN PHOTOS: 186 trainees graduate from Indian Naval Academy

IN PHOTOS: 186 trainees graduate from Indian Naval Academy

The Indian Naval Academy at Ezhimala held the Passing Out Parade (POP) for the Spring Term 2025 on May 31, where 186 trainees successfully completed their ab-initio training. (Pics/Defence PRO)... [Read More]

01 June,2025 12:49 AM IST
IN PHOTOS: Spring Term 2025 Passing Out Parade at Indian Naval Academy in Kerala

IN PHOTOS: Spring Term 2025 Passing Out Parade at Indian Naval Academy in Kerala

The Indian Naval Academy in Ezhimala, Kerala, held Spring Term 2025 Passing Out Parade on Saturday, marking the graduation of 186 trainees. Pics/Defence PRO... [Read More]

31 May,2025 11:14 PM IST
Kohli’s fluency and Padikkal’s flair take hosts Bengaluru to 205/5

Kohli’s fluency and Padikkal’s flair take hosts Bengaluru to 205/5

Star batters Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal delivered commanding half-centuries to help Royal Challengers Bengaluru post a formidable total of 205 for five against Rajasthan Royals in their IPL clash on Thursday (Pic: iplt20/BCCI)... [Read More]

24 April,2025 09:59 PM IST
Selection race on as six names compete for India’s middle-order reserves

Selection race on as six names compete for India’s middle-order reserves

Ahead of England`s Test tour, there are six players in contention to make it to Team India`s middle-order reserves. Here`s the list of players out of which only two will be able to cement their place in India`s squad (Pic: File Pic)... [Read More]

22 April,2025 07:18 PM IST
IN PHOTOS: Amit Shah attends CRPF Raising Day celebration in MP

IN PHOTOS: Amit Shah attends CRPF Raising Day celebration in MP

Union Home Minister Amit Shah attended the Central Reserve Police Force’s (CRPF) 86th Raising Day celebrations in Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh, on Thursday. The event commenced with Shah inspecting the ceremonial parade and paying homage to the fallen heroes of the force. (PICS/X@@DrMohanYadav51 @crpfindia) ... [Read More]

17 April,2025 03:16 PM IST
RCB vs RR, IPL 2025: Bengaluru men wear the crown in battle of the 'Royals'

RCB vs RR, IPL 2025: Bengaluru men wear the crown in battle of the 'Royals'

In the IPL 2025 match against Rajasthan Royals (RR), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) won the match by nine wickets. Here is all you need to know (Pics: X)... [Read More]

13 April,2025 07:14 PM IST
IPL 2025: Kishan’s fireworks help SRH pile up a staggering 286/6 against Royals

IPL 2025: Kishan’s fireworks help SRH pile up a staggering 286/6 against Royals

Ishan Kishan slayed a hapless Rajasthan Royals attack to conjure up a magnificent 45-ball century, powering Sunrisers Hyderabad to an imposing 286 for six in their home IPL game here on Sunday (Pic: AFP)... [Read More]

23 March,2025 06:06 PM IST
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Videos

Holi 2025: Why is Holi celebrated & what is the meaning behind traditions?

Holi 2025: Why is Holi celebrated & what is the meaning behind traditions?

As Holi 2025 draws near, the excitement around this festival rich in mythology and traditions is gaining a peak. In this video renowned mythologist Devdutt Pattnaik explains why Holi is celebrated and the profound meaning behind its traditions. Explaining the spiritual significance of the festival Pattnaik connects the traditional roots with the modern celebrations. Take a look.... [Read More]

12 March,2025 08:08 PM IST
This Maha Shivratri 2025, uncover the mysteries of Shiva like never before

This Maha Shivratri 2025, uncover the mysteries of Shiva like never before

In this exclusive interview with renowned mythologist Devdutt Pattanaik, Mid-Day’s Katyayani Kapoor delves into the paradoxical nature of Lord Shiva—both an ascetic and a hedonist. Why is he called Bholenath, the innocent one? What do bhaang, dhatura, and his tiger skin symbolise? What life lessons can we learn from his cosmic role as the destroyer? And is Kailash the ultimate ideal world? Join us for this fascinating conversation as we decode the secrets of Shiva and uncover the deeper meanings hidden in Hindu mythology!  ... [Read More]

25 February,2025 10:21 AM IST
Diwali 2024: Hidden meaning of Ramayan by Mythologist Devdutt Pattnaik

Diwali 2024: Hidden meaning of Ramayan by Mythologist Devdutt Pattnaik

Diwali 2024 is here and this takes us back to the time of Rama’s return with Sita and Lakshman to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. The timeless tale is told by Ramayan which has been retold numerous times in the media through TV and films. However, the way Ramayan was told back then in the 1990’s is far different than the ones presented in the commercial cinemas today, according to Mythologist Devdutt Pattnaik. What are the hidden meanings in Ramayan and can Ramrajya be established in India? Pattnaik further explains. Take a look.... [Read More]

29 October,2024 01:19 PM IST
Dussehra 2024: Where Ravan is worshipped, Indian Origins and life lessons

Dussehra 2024: Where Ravan is worshipped, Indian Origins and life lessons

Dussehra 2024 is here and this happens to be one of the biggest festivals celebrating the win of good over evil. While Ravan is largely considered an evil force ruling the ancient kingdom of Sri Lanka, it might come as a surprise to many about his worship in India. The mystery and the history about Ravan continues to intrigue while several misconceptions loom on him side by side. In this episode of Culture Beat, Mythologist Devdutt Pattnaik talks about the worshipping of Ravan in India, its origins, and the life lessons that we can learn from Ramayan this Vijayadashmi 2024.... [Read More]

11 October,2024 05:00 PM IST
Ratan Tata Passes Away at 86, PM Modi, CM Shinde and others pay tribute

Ratan Tata Passes Away at 86, PM Modi, CM Shinde and others pay tribute

 Ratan Tata, the 86-year-old chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, one of India`s largest and most prominent companies, passed away on October 9. The business tycoon was taken to Mumbai`s Breach Candy Hospital for a routine checkup due to his age. However, his condition worsened over the past week. Political leaders took to X to pay tribute to Ratan Tata for his exemplary contribution to India’s industrial growth. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on X over the death of Ratan Tata. Rajnath Singh also expressed his grief, calling him a Titan of Indian industry. Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis arrived at Breach Candy Hospital following Ratan Tata`s passing on October 9. Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde expressed his condolences, stating, "The gem of India, Ratan Tata, is no more. This is very sad news for everyone. A large number of people were inspired and motivated by him. He is the pride of Maharashtra and has helped thousands. Ratan Tata was the Kohinoor of our country. He contributed immensely to the nation; he was a patriot and a true `desh premi.` His relatives have announced that he will be available for darshan at NCPA from 10 AM to 4 PM."... [Read More]

10 October,2024 09:33 AM IST
The hidden messages in Ramayan and Hanuman Chalisa with Devdutt Pattnaik

The hidden messages in Ramayan and Hanuman Chalisa with Devdutt Pattnaik

Mythology is not just ancient history, it holds a treasure of life lessons for all of us.  Hanuman Chalisa is one of the most viewed videos on Youtube but what message does it really convey? The internet is rife with pictures of Ram Setu and discussion on finding the Sanjeevani, but where does it find its roots in Mythology? Ramrajya has always been defined as an ideal world by many but what was it really like? In this special episode of Straight Talk with Katyayani Kapoor, renowned mythologist, author, and writer Devdutt Pattnaik spills secrets on the hidden messages from the Ramayan, the Hanuman Chalisa and gives his opinion on the depiction of mythology in today’s world.... [Read More]

15 June,2024 07:29 PM IST
Manohar Joshi: Former Maharashtra CM passes away at 86 due to cardiac arrest

Manohar Joshi: Former Maharashtra CM passes away at 86 due to cardiac arrest

Former Maharashtra chief minister Manohar Joshi passed away at the age of 86. Reportedly, he suffered a cardiac arrest on 21st February, Thursday and was immediately admitted to the ICU of P D Hinduja Hospital in Mumbai. Manohar Joshi passed away at around 3am on Friday due to age-related health complications. The news was confirmed by P D Hinduja Hospital chief operating officer Joy Chakravarty. Manohar Joshi had been suffering from health issues since May 2023. He suffered a brain hemorrhage, the previous year and since then his health wasn`t in good shape. Born in Raigad district of Maharashtra in a Brahmin family, Joshi did his master of Arts and LLB from Mumbai University. He began his political career by being elected to the Legislative Council and served three terms from 1972 to 1989. He also became the Mayor of Mumbai from 1976 to 1977. He was elected to the Legislative Assembly from a Shiv Sena ticket in 1990. He served as CM of Maharashtra from 1995-1999. He was elected for a six-year term to the Rajya Sabha on 20 March 2006 after being defeated in the previous Lok Sabha election in the Central Mumbai constituency.... [Read More]

23 February,2024 11:52 AM IST
86 per cent Mumbaikars have Covid-19 antibodies: BMC

86 per cent Mumbaikars have Covid-19 antibodies: BMC

Civic body relieved with results of fifth serosurvey; antibodies higher in those who have taken one or both vaccine doses... [Read More]

19 September,2021 02:29 PM IST | Mumbai
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