Shikhandi And Other Tales They Dont Tell You By: Devdutt Pattanaik

Shikhandi And Other Tales They Don’t Tell You

Discovering Unheard Stories of Equality and Diversity in Hindu Mythology

Embark on a captivating journey into the heart of Hindu mythology with "Shikhandi And Other Tales They Don’t Tell You", a compelling collection of stories that challenge conventional norms and offer fresh perspectives on gender and sexuality. This thought-provoking book, published by Penguin Books in July 2015, is an engaging exploration of the rich oral traditions of India.

About the Book

The book begins with a profound assertion: Patriarchy claims male superiority over women, while feminism clarifies their equality. But what about queerness? This is where Devdutt Pattanaik's work shines. He delves into Hindu mythology to uncover stories that question binary notions of male and female, offering a unique Indian perspective on queerness.

Some of the intriguing tales you'll find within its pages include:

• Shikhandi: A woman who becomes a man to satisfy her wife's desire for children.
• Mahadeva: The god who becomes a woman to deliver a devotee’s child.
• Chudala: A woman who transforms into a man to enlighten her husband.
• Samavan: A man who becomes his friend's wife in a unexpected turn of events.

Pattanaik compares these stories with their counterparts from Mesopotamia, Greece, China, and the Bible, revealing the unique Indian approach to understanding queerness. The narratives are playful, touching, and sometimes disturbing, reflecting the complex nature of human identity and relationships.

About the Author

Devdutt Pattanaik, a medical doctor by education, is a leadership consultant by profession but a mythologist by passion. He has written extensively on Hindu mythology, sacred stories, symbols, and rituals, making them relevant in modern times. Some of his notable works include:

• The Book of Ram
• Myth = Mithya: A Handbook of Hindu Mythology
• The Pregnant King
• The Book of Kali
• Jaya: An Illustrated Retelling of the Mahabharata
• Sita: An Illustrated Retelling of the Ramayana
• The popular Devlok series for children.

Pattanaik's engaging style and unconventional approach make his works accessible and enjoyable, even as they challenge conventional wisdom.

Book Details

"Shikhandi And Other Tales They Don’t Tell You" is a pocket-sized paperback (196 pages), convenient for carrying around. It's printed on demand, ensuring freshness, and is available in English. With its MediaMail feature, you can expect fast and reliable delivery.

ISBN-13: 9789383074846

Dive into the fascinating world of Hindu mythology with "Shikhandi And Other Tales They Don’t Tell You". This book is not just a collection of stories; it's an invitation to question, explore, and understand the rich tapestry of Indian culture and its approach to diversity.