Two-Day International Conference on ‘Revisiting History, Ethnicity and Myth in Literature’
at Amity University Rajasthan
Amity University Rajasthan organized Two-Day International Conference On REVISITING HISTORY, ETHNICITY AND MYTH IN LITERATURE (REHEM), on the day 19 & 20 October 2023. in this Conference I Presented my Paper with the topic ‘Depictions of Mythology in Western and Bollywood Cinemas.’ I attached the Presentation and also whole paper below.
Here is a Presentation:-
Research Paper:-
Abstract:
The interplay between ancient myths and contemporary storytelling within the realm of media and cinema serves as a captivating subject analysis and examination. This research paper Delves into the dynamic relationship between mythology and modern visual narratives, shedding light on the various ways in which mythological themes, character and narratives are reimagined, adapted, and integrated into cinematic works. By examining a diverse range of examples from both western and bollywood cinema, this study seeks to unravel the intricate connections between cultural heritage, universal themes, and the evolving artistic expressions of myth. This research paper seeks to explain the multifaceted roles that mythology plays in shaping storytelling and collective imagination. It delves into questions of authenticity, representation and the transformative power of myth as it evolves across time,space, and mediums. By examining the ways in which filmmakers reinterpret and adapt ancient myths, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how mythology continues to captivate and inspire audiences in the digital era. Through exploration of selected films, both western and bollywood, this study analyses how filmmakers adapt myth in their films, this paper offers insights into the dynamic process of mythological storytelling and its ability to bridge temporal and cultural divides. This Research paper explores the intersection of mythology and contemporary cinema adaptations of myths. Modern cinema and filmmakers are modifying myths, this research paper explores these aspects as well.
Key Words: Mythology, Films, Western Cinema, Bollywood Cinema, Modern Cinema, Cultural Heritage.
Introduction:-
Mythology, a universal and enduring facet of human culture, has served as a wellspring of inspiration for filmmakers around the globe. From epic tales of gods and heroes to the moral fables that shape our understanding of the world, myths are a reflection of cultural values, collective memory, and the human condition. In the context of cinema, mythology becomes a dynamic and adaptive force, offering filmmakers a treasure trove of themes, characters, and motifs to weave into their narratives.
In this exploration, we delve into the contrasting approaches taken by Indian Bollywood and Western cinema in their depiction of mythology. While both traditions draw upon ancient tales to craft contemporary stories, they do so within the unique contexts of their respective cultures and cinematic styles. To illuminate this dynamic interplay, we will examine two films as emblematic examples: "Adipurush" from the heart of Bollywood and "Thor" from the annals of Western cinema.
First let’s see What is Myth?
What is Myth?
According to Joshua J. Mark Myths are a part of every culture in the world and are used to explain natural phenomena, where people came from and how their civilization developed, and why things happen as they do. At their most basic level, myths comfort by giving a sense of order and meaning to what can sometimes seem a chaotic world. What one calls “mythology” in the present day, it should be remembered, was the religion of the ancient past. The stories which make up the corpus of ancient mythology served the same purpose for the people of the time as the stories from accepted scripture do for people today: they explained, comforted, and directed an audience and, further, provided a sense of unity, cohesion, and protection to a community of like-minded believers. Campbell, J. (2008).
Types of Myth:-
Scholar Joseph Campbell, who famously advocated for the study of myths, notes how mythology is the underlying form of every civilization and the underpinning of each individual's consciousness. In his seminal work, The Hero with a Thousand Faces, he discusses what he calls the “monomyth”, the similarities in theme, characters, purpose, and narrative progression of myths from different cultures, at different times, around the world and throughout history.
There are many different types of myth but, essentially, they can be grouped into three:
- Etiological Myths
- Historical Myths
- Psychological Myths
1). Etiological Myths:
Etiological myths (from the Greek aetion meaning 'reason') explain why a certain thing is the way it is or how it came to be. This type of myth is usually defined as an origin story. For example, in Egyptian mythology the sycamore tree looks the way it does because it is home to the goddess Hathor, the Lady of the Sycamore. In Norse mythology, thunder is recognized as Thor's chariot racing across the heavens. Etiological myths can offer explanations for why the world is the way it is – as in the story from Greek mythology of Pandora's Box which explains how evil and suffering was released into the world – or how a certain institution came to be – as in the Chinese myth of the goddess Nuwa who kept creating human beings over and over and over until she grew tired and instituted the practice of marriage so humans could reproduce themselves. Characters in myths always serve a definite purpose whether they are explaining marriage or an epic mission or decisive battle.
2). Historical Myths:
Historical myths retell an event from the past but elevate it with greater meaning than the actual event (if it even happened). One example of this is the story of the Battle of Kurukshetra as described in the Indian epic Mahabharata in which the Pandava brothers symbolise different values and provide role models, even if they are occasionally flawed. Kurukshetra is then presented in microcosm in the Bhagavad Gita where one of the Pandavas, Arjuna, is visited on the battlefield by the god Krishna, avatar of Vishnu, to explain one's purpose in life. Whether the Battle of Kurukshetra ever took place is immaterial to the power of these two stories on a mythological level. The same can be said for the religious myths of the Abrahamic narratives of the Bible or the Siege of Troy and its fall as described in Homer's Iliad or Odysseus' journey home in the Odyssey or Aeneas' adventures in the work of Virgil.
3). Psychological myths:
Psychological myths present one with a journey from the known to the unknown which, according to both Jung and Campbell, represents a psychological need to balance the external world with one's internal consciousness of it. However that may be, the story of the myth itself usually involves a hero or heroine on a journey in which they discover their true identity or fate and, in so doing, resolve a crisis while also providing an audience with some important cultural value. Probably the best-known classical myth of this type is that of Oedipus the prince who, seeking to avoid the prediction that he would grow up to kill his father, leaves his life behind to travel to another region where he unknowingly winds up killing the man who was his actual father who had abandoned him at birth in an attempt to circumvent that same prediction. Campbell, J. (2008).
Bollywood, the thriving Indian film industry, is renowned for its diverse array of storytelling techniques and genres. Among these, the incorporation of mythology has been a longstanding tradition, contributing to the industry's rich cinematic tapestry. Filmmakers must navigate the fine line between artistic expression and cultural respect, ensuring that their adaptations do not offend or misrepresent the original myths and their cultural significance.
The representation of mythology in Bollywood is a multifaceted phenomenon that continues to evolve with the industry itself. It serves as a testament to the enduring relevance of ancient narratives in contemporary storytelling. As Bollywood filmmakers continue to explore and reimagine myth, they contribute to the preservation of India's cultural heritage while also shaping the future of Indian cinema. Balancing tradition with innovation, they offer audiences a unique blend of entertainment and cultural reflection, making mythological films an integral part of Bollywood's cinematic landscape. Mark, J. J. (2018, October 31)
Mythological films have spanned genres, and have even had subversive elements in them over the decades. Even though Adipurush is being marketed as a ‘pan-Indian’ film, most of the interest is being generated within the Hindi and Telugu industries. We take a look at the ways in which mythological narratives have evolved in these industries.
Adipurush and Ramayan:
Adipurush" is a Bollywood film that has generated significant buzz and anticipation due to its focus on mythological themes. Directed by Om Raut, the film is an adaptation of the Indian epic, the Ramayana. Let's explore how "Adipurush" engages with mythology and its significance in the context of Bollywood.
Adaptation of the Ramayana: "Adipurush" is primarily based on the Ramayana, one of India's most revered and widely read ancient epics. The Ramayana narrates the life and adventures of Lord Rama, an avatar of the god Vishnu, his wife Sita, and his loyal devotee Hanuman, set against the backdrop of a great battle against the demon king Ravana.
Modern Reimagining:
Bollywood has a long history of adapting and reimagining mythological stories, and "Adipurush" is no exception. The film seeks to present the classic tale in a visually stunning and contemporary cinematic style, employing state-of-the-art technology, special effects, and production values to bring the epic to life for modern audiences. This modern reimagining aims to appeal to a wide range of viewers, including those who may not be familiar with the original epic.
Story Line:
The narrative wastes no time in establishing characters or Ram’s aura (Prabhas as Raghav) or what led to his exile (vanvas) from Ayodhya. It focuses on Sita’s (Kriti Sanon as Janaki) treacherous abduction by Ravan (Saif Ali Khan) and the epic Ram vs Ravan battle fought for her rescue. The film pits Ram’s fearless army comprising Lakshman, Hanuman, Sugriv and their vanar sena against the menacing, and towering Ravan and his immortality. The battle scenes recreate the iconic Avengers’ huddle warding off a larger army of Ravan’s CGI rakshasas. The war (second half) is engaging and redeems a rather stagnant first half that lacks thrill or a sense of urgency that the story demands. Raut struggles to find a balance and consistency between the epic story and its superhero-verse execution. The dialogue lacks the impact that epic heroes of this stature are expected to deliver.
Saif Ali Khan’s invincible Ravan exudes main character energy in this ambitious but stoical retelling of an epic. While Prabhas (voiced brilliantly by Sharad Kelkar) maintains a heroic presence as Ram, it is Saif, with his wicked mannerisms and massive height lift that steals the show. Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior was testament to his mastery at playing dark and delirious characters and here he raises the bar yet again. The music and background score composed by Sanchit and Ankit Balhara, as well as the songs by Ajay-Atul give a terrific boost to Saif’s monstrous portrayal of Ravan. Adipurush belongs to Saif Ali Khan and Raut succeeds in mounting the character on a massive scale.
The VFX and visual elements are acceptable but not particularly remarkable. The inclusion of 3D effects seems somewhat superfluous. Given its three-hour runtime, one wishes the narrative relied less on special effects and more on exploring the unique qualities of its beloved characters and what sets them apart. Despite a dramatic build-up, the climax falls short of leaving you with a sense of joy, fulfilment, or triumph. This film makes a sincere effort but is somewhat overshadowed by its ambitious attempt to handle a story of such grand proportions.(Vyavahare, 2023)
"Myth" in "Adipurush" serves as the foundation of the film's narrative. The Ramayana is deeply embedded in Indian culture, and its characters and themes are often seen as symbolic representations of virtuous living, righteousness, and the triumph of good over evil. By adapting and retelling this epic story, "Adipurush" continues the Bollywood tradition of exploring cultural and mythological themes that resonate with the Indian audience.
Similarities and Differences between Epic Ramayana and Film Adipurush:-
What are the Similarities and Differences between Epic Ramayana and Film Adipurush?
Adipurush is an EPIC DISAPPOINTMENT… Just doesn’t meet the mammoth expectations. Director Om Raut had a dream cast and a massive budget on hand, but created a HUGE MESS," Taran Adarsh tweeted. Adipurush” only really feels like a movie that was directed and not just covered during its slowly escalating finale, which pits Raghava, his brother Sesh/Laxmana (Sunny Singh), and Bajrang against Lankesh and his superhumanly fast second-in-command, Indrajit (Vatsal Sheth). Some of us looked forward to “Adipurush” because it was directed by Om Raut, whose “Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior” also pulled itself together during splashy, climactic battle scenes. “Adipurush” still looks rough and moves gracelessly even during slow-motion battles, but at least the narrow focus of these concluding scenes gives the movie some dramatic tension. (Abrams, 2023)
In conclusion, "Adipurush" is a noteworthy Bollywood film that showcases the enduring appeal of mythological themes in Indian cinema. By bringing the Ramayana to life in a contemporary and visually spectacular manner, the film not only entertains but also reaffirms the cultural significance of these timeless stories in the hearts and minds of audiences. It serves as a testament to how mythology continues to be a source of inspiration and fascination in the world of Bollywood filmmaking.Bhaskar, A. (2023, June 17)
"Adipurush" and the Ramayana represent two distinct yet interconnected facets of storytelling. "Adipurush" offers a contemporary cinematic experience with its impressive visual effects and modern reimagining of the beloved characters from the ancient epic. It's a showcase of the evolution of filmmaking and technology, aiming to captivate audiences with its visual appeal. However, it sometimes leans heavily on these effects, potentially overshadowing the depth of the characters and the philosophical nuances found in the original Ramayana.
On the other hand, the Ramayana is a timeless epic that has transcended generations and cultures, cherished for its profound exploration of themes such as duty, love, and righteousness. It delves deep into the hearts and minds of its characters, making it a rich source of moral and philosophical reflection. While "Adipurush" may provide a thrilling cinematic experience, the Ramayana endures as a spiritual and literary masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, offering a more profound and enduring narrative. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on whether one seeks the spectacle of modern filmmaking or the enduring wisdom of a timeless epic.
The Western cinema 'Thor' and Mythological figure 'Thor'
"Thor" (2011), directed by Kenneth Branagh, is a superhero film that is part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). While the film incorporates elements of Norse mythology, it primarily draws upon the Marvel Comics version of the character Thor, who is a superhero rather than a god in the traditional mythological sense.
In Western cinema, the use of mythology as a source of inspiration is a common theme. Here are some key aspects of how "Thor" fits into the broader tradition of mythological themes in Western cinema:
1. Adaptation of Mythology:
"Thor" tales characters and themes from Norse mythology and adapts them into a modern superhero narrative. The film features Asgard, the realm of the gods, Thor's iconic hammer Mjölnir, and his father Odin, among other mythological elements. These are woven into a contemporary story, providing a bridge between ancient myths and modern popular culture.
2. Hero's Journey:
Like many mythological tales, "Thor" follows the hero's journey archetype. Thor starts as an arrogant and impulsive prince who is cast out of Asgard and must undergo a transformation to become worthy of his godly powers. This journey of self-discovery and redemption is a common theme in mythology and is a central element of the film's narrative.
3. Conflict Between Good and Evil:
Mythology often features epic battles between forces of good and evil, and "Thor" is no exception. Thor faces off against his brother Loki, who serves as the film's primary antagonist. The conflict between these two characters mirrors the rivalry and enmity found in many mythological stories.
4. Themes of Power and Responsibility:
Mythology often explores themes of power and the responsibilities that come with it. In "Thor," Thor's character arc revolves around his understanding of power and his growth into a responsible leader. This theme reflects the timeless struggle between hubris and humility found in many mythological tales.
5. Interplay of Science and Magic:-
"Thor" incorporates elements of science fiction alongside its mythological themes. The film introduces the concept of advanced technology as "magic" to explain the fantastical abilities of the Asgardians. This blending of science and magic is a common trope in modern interpretations of mythological stories.
In summary, "Thor" (2011) directed by Kenneth Branagh represents a modern interpretation of Norse mythology within the context of Western cinema. It combines traditional mythological elements with contemporary storytelling techniques, making it part of a broader tradition of adapting mythological themes for the screen.
Difference between Thor in Norse Mythology and Movies
Our favourite Marvel hero, Thor, is a character derived from Norse mythology’s god of lightning and thunder. He was the son of Jörõ and Odin. However, Norse mythology is quite a complex and intertwined belief system, and Marvel didn’t keep the character of Thor just like it was described in the mythology. The adaptation is a gist of Norse mythology in all the Thor movies.
Even when there are differences between the Norse mythology’s Thor and the Thor from Marvel movies, we cannot say that there is nothing similar between the two. It is a normal practice for the writers to alter a few characteristics of mythological characters to shape them in the modern world of superheroes.
Here are some significant differences and Similarities that one can spot between the Norse mythology’s Thor and the Thor in Marvel movies:
The Thor we know from the movies is quite different from the Norse Thor, and the reasons are understandable. As a superhero, it was a need for the character to be represented as strong and thoughtful. Moreover, it has been seen for different Marvel characters that many things about them, from their looks to their personality, were altered to fit them in a superhero role. The same thing applies to Thor as well. He is presented as a hero who can use the Mjolnir just because of his worthiness and tries to be thoughtful, however in myths, none of these things were true.
Just like that, Thor’s family members also differ in the films and myths. The alteration of characters has always been a thing in Hollywood, especially when the characters are based upon mythologies or legends. This is because it is hard to show them as modern world superheroes without making some changes. No matter how many differences there are between our modern Thor and the Norse Thor, we can never stop loving Marvel’s Thor.
Conclusion:-
The exploration of mythology in cinema, spanning across diverse cultural contexts, reveals not only the enduring power of ancient narratives but also the dynamic nature of storytelling. In this comparative analysis, we have journeyed through the portrayal of mythology in Indian and Western cinema, with a specific focus on "Adipurush" and "Thor." These two films, representing their respective cinematic traditions, showcase intriguing facets of how mythological themes are adapted, contextualised, and presented to contemporary audiences.
"Adipurush," rooted in the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology, exemplifies Bollywood's ability to draw deeply from its cultural heritage. The film is a testament to the enduring resonance of epic narratives like the Ramayana and the collective cultural memory they embody. In "Adipurush," we witness the fusion of devotion and modern cinematic techniques, emphasising the power of mythological storytelling to inspire spiritual and emotional connections among Indian audiences.
On the other hand, "Thor" from the Marvel Cinematic Universe epitomises Western cinema's approach to mythology. Drawing from Norse mythology, this film places the ancient god Thor in a contemporary, superhero context. It showcases how Western filmmakers extract timeless archetypes from mythological narratives to construct modern tales of heroism, identity, and sacrifice.
In conclusion, the representation of mythology in Indian and Western cinema is a testament to the adaptability and universality of these ancient narratives. While "Adipurush" maintains its cultural specificity, deeply resonating with Indian audiences through its devotion and traditional storytelling, "Thor" takes a more global approach by extracting universal themes from Norse mythology.
Yet, both films underscore the shared human fascination with myths as a means to explore fundamental questions of existence, morality, and the human condition. They demonstrate that, whether set in the mystical realms of ancient India or the cosmic landscapes of Norse mythology, these narratives continue to captivate and inspire audiences worldwide.
As cinema continues to evolve, the representation of mythology will likely evolve as well, adapting to shifting societal values and technological advancements. However, the enduring appeal of these timeless stories, as showcased by "Adipurush" and "Thor," reminds us that mythology remains a powerful and transcendent force in the world of storytelling, bridging cultures and generations.
In the end, the cinematic portrayal of mythology reminds us that, beneath the surface of cultural diversity, we share a common human quest for meaning and understanding, and these ancient stories continue to guide us on that timeless journey.
Work Cited:-
Abrams, S. (2023, June 16). Adipurush movie review & film summary (2023). Roger Ebert. Retrieved September 18, 2023, from https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/adipurush-movie-review-2023
Bhaskar, A. (2023, June 17). Adipurush: A look at mythological narratives in Indian cinema. The Indian Express. Retrieved September 9, 2023, from https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-culture/adipurush-a-look-at-mythological-narratives-in-indian-cinema-8669557/
Campbell, J. (2008). The hero with a thousand faces. New World Library.
Difference between Thor in Norse Mythology and Movies. (n.d.). Critics Rant. Retrieved September 15, 2023, from https://criticsrant.com/difference-between-thor-in-norse-mythology-and-movies/
Mark, J. J. (2018, October 31). Mythology. World History Encyclopedia. Retrieved September 9, 2023, from https://www.worldhistory.org/mythology/
Vyavahare, R. (2023, June 16). Adipurush Review: Ramayana rides high on action over ethos in this super-heroic reboot | Adipurush Movie Review. The Times of India. Retrieved September 19, 2023, from https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-reviews/adipurush/movie-review/101039935.cms
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