Devdutt Pattanaik and the Modern Retelling of Hindu Devotional Literature

Abstract

Contemporary Indian mythological writing has witnessed a remarkable transformation through the works of Devdutt Pattanaik, whose reinterpretations of Hindu myths and devotional traditions have contributed significantly to the modern understanding of Indian spirituality and culture. Pattanaik’s writings bridge the gap between ancient religious narratives and contemporary intellectual discourse by presenting mythology as a living cultural and psychological system rather than merely a sacred tradition confined to ritual practice. This research paper examines how Pattanaik modernizes Hindu devotional literature through reinterpretation, symbolism, narrative accessibility, and cultural contextualization. Focusing particularly on My Hanuman Chalisa, the paper explores how Pattanaik transforms devotional texts into instruments of ethical reflection, self-discovery, and cultural dialogue. The study further investigates the relationship between mythology and modernity, the psychological dimensions of devotion, and the role of retelling in preserving cultural continuity. Drawing upon mythological studies, literary criticism, and cultural theory, this paper argues that Pattanaik’s modern retellings contribute to the democratization of Hindu devotional literature by making it accessible to contemporary readers while preserving its symbolic depth and philosophical significance.