What is mythology?
Mythology is a vast blend of traditional stories known as myths or tales belonging to a particular religious or cultural tradition. The term "myth" is now often used to denote anything that isn't true. A myth, on the other hand, isn't merely a constructed tale. Myths are stories about gods, warriors, and occurrences that a community believes to be true.
Is mythology still relevant for children today?
Narrating mythology stories to children is an excellent way to make them understand what made us who we are and help them stay grounded. They serve as reminders of our cultural inheritance.
For a variety of reasons, it is crucial for our children to learn and comprehend our mythology as they grow. The tales demonstrate how they should approach culture and history, what lessons they should learn, and understand why we do certain things a certain way.
The tales they hear in their growing years will have a tremendous effect on the decisions they make in their life. Here are some things that children imbibe from mythology:
Know our culture and traditions: Children learn the ‘what’ and ‘why’ behind festivals and customs that are so integral to our culture. Mythology has answers to all those questions children might have about various traditions and this makes our celebrations and practices more meaningful.
Good vs Evil: The battle of righteousness versus wickedness, good vs evil, right vs wrong is iterated in mythology over and over again. This helps children understand why it’s always important to stand for what is right and the consequences of wickedness and greed. These stories show that good always triumphs and evil is always punished just like how Raavan’s and Kauravas greed led to their destruction.
Gender equality: The tales of all the Hindu Goddesses teach children of strong female characters and educate them that females should not be treated unfairly based on their gender and that they should never be disrespected. There are plenty of powerful women stories in our mythology that breaks the stereotype of women being weaker than men and that woman is the one that always needs to be protected.
The story of goddess Durga that defeated and killed Mahishasura to save the world including all other gods and goddesses is a great example.
Love and Respect each other: Mythology teaches children that there is nothing bigger than staying true to the people that matter the most. For example, stories about virtuous Ram can teach kids the importance of respecting their family, elderly, women, and everyone in general. Also stories like that of Krishna and Sudhama teaches them the value of true friendship. Buddha’s principles on peace and non violence and Mahavira’s teachings on not harming any life, no matter how big or small it is give us a bigger picture on what is important in life.
Determination: It is not just important to have a goal in life but it is equally important that we stay determined and work towards the goal. Mythology can teach children that there will always be distractions but only the one who works hard and keep their mind on the target will succeed, just like Ekalavya who worked hard and attained a level of skill equivalent to that of Arjuna in archery.
Nurture curiosity and imagination: The more inquisitive a child gets, the more they are willing to learn, discover, and explore. When you interpret the stories in an age appropriate and relevant manner, children become brave enough to take the paths less trodden. These tales are also built on a vivid imagination and children will pick up the same when they are told such stories. When it comes to Indian mythology, there are plenty of stories that challenge children's minds to stretch and create seemingly impossible scenarios and characters. Story of Ganesha breaking his tusk to finish writing Mahabaratha or naughty stories from Krishna’s childhood encourage children to think out of the box and be resourceful.
We can impart the highest possible morals in children by reinventing and reapplying myths to the life of children. Understanding our culture through mythology makes children stronger to face life and also develop faith in God which is an important pillar of life.
Morals and healthy values may be instilled in children effectively through mythology. It will aid in the discovery and comprehension of numerous human values such as loyalty, generosity, true love, commitment and sacrifice. It is extremely important for our children to know, understand and stay connected to our roots. What better way to do that than exposing them to Mythology in a fun, playful manner. If you are looking for a fun, playful way to do that, check out these amazing and vibrant puzzles from Cultural Learning Systems that come with a sloka and a short story!
The author, Kusuma Reddy, is the founder of Culturorama toys (@culturroramatoys) and the creative mind behind Culturorama.com, where she shines light on Indian culture and customs. The toys made under the brand Culturorama are handmade by empowering women artisans in India.
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