Indian mythologist and author Devdutt Pattanaik has stirred a debate with his recent claim regarding a Hanuman statue unveiled in Texas. Pattanaik, known for his work on mythology and its relevance in contemporary life, suggested that the statue, which stands at 90 feet tall, draws inspiration from the Thai Buddha’s “do not fight” gesture.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Pattanaik shared a photo of the newly inaugurated Hanuman statue, which features the deity with both arms raised. He commented, “Thank you guys – a shift from those rather inauspicious (angry) images promoted by Breaking Bharat Bullies.” The statue was unveiled during a grand Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Sugar Land, Texas, and is titled the ‘Statue of Union.’ It symbolizes Hanuman’s role in reuniting Sri Rama and Sita, and was realized under the guidance of His Holiness Sri Chinnajeeyar Swamiji.
American Hindus in Texas built a rather unusual giant Hanuman statue based on the (Thai) Buddha’s gesture of “do not fight”. both palms raised.
Thank you guys – a shift from those rather inauspicious (angry) images promoted by Breaking Bharat Bullies. pic.twitter.com/LojFdhH7qS
— Devdutt Pattanaik (@devduttmyth) August 21, 2024
Pattanaik’s interpretation has faced backlash from netizens. Some users on X disputed his claim, arguing that the raised arms position, known as Abhaya Mudra, is traditionally used by Buddha to symbolize peace and to calm fears, not to indicate a “do not fight” gesture. “It is Abhaya mudra, by Buddha, to calm the sea associated with the flooding of Neranyjara River. You are interpreting to suit your agenda,” one user wrote. Another commented, “Without cultural context, one could say Hanuman was sculpted with a high five gesture.”
Critics also questioned Pattanaik’s perspective on the symbolism of Hanuman’s image, suggesting that labeling such traditional depictions as inauspicious undermines their cultural and spiritual significance. “Boy, blessings with both hands & saying do not fight has some difference.. isn’t it? And when being angry became inauspicious? So according to you rupa of Kali, Rudra Shiva and all to eliminate evil are inauspicious? *I still regret buying your books,” another commenter stated.
Devdutt Pattanaik is a prominent figure in the study of mythology, focusing on both Indian and Western myths. He has authored and illustrated over 50 books, including titles like ABC Of Hinduism and Bahubali: 63 Insights into Jainism. Pattanaik’s work often explores the intersection of mythology with modern life and management.
The debate highlights the complexities of interpreting and representing cultural symbols, and the diverse reactions it can elicit from different audiences.
