The Seen and the Unseen - hosted by Amit Varma cover image

The Seen and the Unseen - hosted by Amit Varma

Ep 404: Devdutt Pattanaik and the Stories That Shape Us

Nov 11, 2024
Devdutt Pattanaik, an acclaimed author on Indian mythology, engages in a captivating discussion about how ancient stories shape modern society. He delves into themes like morality in Indian culture, the complexities of love, and the role of mythology in political narratives. Pattanaik contrasts Eastern and Western perspectives on identity and success, urging listeners to reflect on the deeper meanings behind cultural tales. He also touches on the struggles of wealth and the nuances of storytelling, emphasizing the importance of reclaiming agency in narratives.
12:08:38

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Understanding past stories shapes societal norms and values.
  • Reflecting on personal experiences aids in navigating societal expectations.

Deep dives

The Complexity of Identity Formation

The podcast delves into the intricate interplay between nature and nurture in forming individual and societal identities. It highlights how one's genetic makeup (hardware) and cultural influences (software) together shape behaviors, values, and societal norms. By exploring the stories societies tell themselves, incorporating history and mythology, the episode emphasizes the importance of understanding the past to comprehend the present. The conversation with the guest, Devdutt Patnayak, unfolds various perspectives on Indian mythology and societal differences from the Western world, shedding light on the nuanced constructs of personal and societal identities.

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