Hinduism: Beyond Mythology, Embracing Itihasa
Article, Hinduism, Puranas

Hinduism: Beyond Mythology, Embracing Itihasa

Hinduism, often misunderstood as a collection of myths and legends, transcends conventional definitions of mythology. At its core, Hinduism is rooted in Itihasa, meaning “history” or “thus indeed it was.” Unlike myths, which typically connote fictional narratives, the stories within Hindu scriptures are perceived as events that transpired on various planes of existence, including the celestial realm. This essay aims to elucidate why Hinduism cannot be confined within the constraints of mythology, drawing upon its rich tradition of Itihasa and the profound implications it carries.