Topic Research: Animals of Indian Epics

After spending more time researching animals in Hindu mythology and Indian epics, I found myself amazed by the variety of animals and creatures. While I knew prominent animal characters such as Ganesha and Hanuman, I discovered many more such as Nandi, Shiva's bull and Narsimha, the lion and man combination.

Story 1: Narsimha

When I first came across Narasimha, I was fascinated by his appearance and his origin story as well. For this character, I would focus on the Prahlada legend. This story follows the evil Hiraṇyakaśipu is unable to be killed by a human or animal. Narasimha is able to overcome this by being a combination of both. The ending for the legend suggests Narasimha becomes violent and begins to threaten the world. I feel that I could write this story from a first person perspective of Narasimha as well as include a new ending.

Source: Narsimha

Story 2: Ganesha origin

As I a kid, I really enjoyed reading Ganesha stories, and as I did research I was fascinated by the many origin stories regarding Ganesha. For this story, I would focus on the story from the Shiva Purana where Ganesha is initially decapitated. I found it fascinating, and for the story, I could do it from the perspective of Parvati, his mother. It would be interesting to express her emotions over the events and the eventually creation of Ganesha we all know today. Additionally, I could bring in more animals by talking about Ganesha's mouse.

Source: Ganesha Mythology

Story 3: Bhramari

While Brahmari is a goddess associated with black bees and is not necessary an animal, I did enjoy the story of her creation and felt that there was enough relationship with animals. Her story would focus on the fight against Arunasura, a demon who attempts to defeat the gods. The story somewhat reminded me of Kronos and the Titians vs the gods in Greek mythology. I see this story as being open to many changes and my interpretation.

Source: Brahmari

Narsimha Jayanti date 2020: When is it and why is it celebrated

Narasimha defeating Hiraṇyakaśipu

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Week 9 Story: Bhima and the Nagas

Duryodhana was a jealous warrior. He could not stand if anybody was better him, no matter the competition. From archery to running to strength training, he saw how his Pandavas cousins performed at the highest marks. However, no made Duryodhana more angry than Bhima. Now Bhima was the best of the spot. He could bench over 300 pounds, squat 450 pounds, and run a mile in less than 6 minutes. No one could match him physically and for this Duryodhana plotted to get rid of Bhima. He knew he could not do it face to face combat, so he decided to poison his food during dinner. He extracted poison from the venomous King Cobra and sprinkled onto Bhima's dinner for the night. As Bhima took his first bites, he passed out and laid asleep on the ground. Duryodhana seizing his opportunity, gagged Bhima and threw into the holy Ganges for him to forever lie. Yet, as Bhima fell into the river it was fated by the gods that he was not to die. His destiny lied far ahead in the future. Thus when Bhima...

Week 14: More Jataka Tales Part B

For Part B of Week 14 reading, I continued the Jataka Tales. Specifically for the week I read The Elephant and the Dog. What really sparked my interest to read the story was the title. As a fan of dogs and knowing the importance of elephants in Indian culture, I was curious to see how the two animals interacted in the story, and I was definitely not disappointed. I loved the heartwarming story of the dog and elephant's friendship and how they needed each other to live. It is always surprising to me how animals from different species are able to form friendships, but I think it highlights how even in animals, love and friendship has no boundary. If I were to retell the story, I would probably add a personal touch such as replacing the dog with my own dog, Max. He is a German Shepherd who loves to hang out with other dogs, so I think he quickly make friends with the elephant. Additionally, I think adding dialogue between the two animals could help showcase their friendship and add m...

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Shiva and Parvati with their son, Ganesha Link to Storybook

Indian Epics

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