From Ancient Wisdom to a Futuristic Vision: Understanding Indian Myths and Folklore as Warning Tales for Ethical Behaviour and Crisis Management

Abstract

The paper brings out the rich legacy of ancient Indian knowledge systems and its role in shaping the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision of the nation. Mythological folklore and legends also serve as warning tales so that every step taken to build a strong economy is a result of foresight, research and a thorough investigation into every detail. Such fascinating stories of the remote past contribute in a big way to form the core ideology and ethical beliefs of the people. It further states that a society without a strong value system is bound to collapse. Firstly, the paper analyzes the story “The Curse of the Three Sisters” in which three beautiful sisters are cursed for entering a forbidden cave. Taboo practices of restricting human entry to sacred groves/ caves in India can be connected to the idea of environment conservation to keep these isolated spots green and pristine through narration of folklore and myths. Also, the Bhasmasura myth describes that when the power of male gods fail, they ‘turn’ to female forms for help. The goddess Mohini depicts the woman’s womb, as the source of feminine energy, wit and intellectual prowess quite enough to destroy the mighty asura also representing the tyrannical political leaders in present times. Similarly, the ‘Bhasmasura’ fear of reducing civilizations to ashes, with nations unleashing their power through nuclear weapons is also threatening the world.