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Embark on a thought-provoking journey through ancient mythology in this 15-minute TEDx talk. Explore the layers of truth, misinterpretation, and intrigue that shape timeless narratives, challenging widely accepted interpretations and examining how misunderstandings can distort perceptions of these stories. Follow the speaker's personal journey from childhood influences to in-depth study of unabridged texts like the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Bhagavata Purana, highlighting the importance of an authentic approach to mythological study. Discover the complexities of genealogies and timelines that led to the creation of The Purana Project, an initiative aimed at organizing and simplifying fragmented stories from various mythological sources. Learn how widely held beliefs often diverge from original texts and consider a fresh evaluation of what is considered "true" in mythology. Reflect on the role of mythologists as "Heroes" in preserving and accurately interpreting myths that form the cultural foundation of societies like Bharat (India) and beyond. Ultimately, question the authenticity of the stories we believe and gain insights into the relevance of mythology in the modern world.