The Quizzitok Podcast | EP 7 | Devdutt Pattanaik on Ahimsa, Mythology, and the Stories That Shape Us

What can ancient stories teach us about living in today’s world? In Episode 7 of The Quizzitok Podcast, Siddhartha Basu sits down with Devdutt Pattanaik, celebrated author, mythologist, public speaker and illustrator, for a captivating conversation that weaves through history, storytelling, and the human spirit. Devdutt shares the essence of his latest book, ‘Ahimsa’, where he traces the roots of non-violence back to mercantile communities who believed in “trade, not raid.” He explains how mythology isn’t a search for historical facts, but a lens through which societies express their deepest truths—stories that speak to ethics, morality, and what it means to live meaningfully. In this episode, Devdutt reveals how he simplifies complex ideas for readers of all ages, using his signature self-drawn illustrations to bring mythology to life. From lessons for young minds to the timeless relevance of ancient wisdom, this conversation explores how storytelling shapes individuals and societies. If you’ve ever wondered how mythology connects to real life, or how stories inspire both personal and societal growth, this episode is for you. Timestamps: 00:00 Precap 00:45 Introduction to Devdutt Pattanaik 01:50 How did Devdutt Switch Streams from Medicine to Mythology? 03:41 Devdutt's Early Introduction to Mythology 15:56 'Ahimsa' - Devdutt's Latest Book and the Roots of Non-Violence in Ancient India 22:03 Devdutt's Approach to Writing for Young Minds 26:00 Sketching Imaginations to Life 29:46 How Mythology Can Contribute to a Young Learner's Education 43:09 The Relevance of Mythology in Today's Age 59:54 Closing Remarks This isn’t just a podcast. It’s a reminder of the power of stories to guide, inspire, and connect. #QuizzitokPodcast #DevduttPattanaik #AhimsaBook #MythologyExplained #StorytellingForLife #PodcastIndia