Ancient Tales, Modern Questions: Anand Neelakantan's Approach to Mythology

Anand Neelakantan’s works offer a groundbreaking approach to Indian mythology by reimagining ancient epics through alternative perspectives that challenge traditional narratives. His novels, such as Asura: Tale of the Vanquished and the Ajaya series look into the lives of characters like Ravana and Duryodhana who have been historically criticized. By humanizing these figures and exploring their struggles, Neelakantan reframes mythological stories to highlight themes of power, caste, morality, and justice. This study examines how Neelakantan bridges the gap between ancient tales and contemporary issues, using mythology as a tool to question societal hierarchies and cultural norms. Through his nuanced storytelling, Neelakantan not only revives timeless epics but also encourages critical reflection on history and modern values. This abstract underscores the relevance of mythology in fostering dialogue about enduring human and societal questions in a modern context.