Story Time

“As one cultivates a seed by pouring water to fructify it, the seed of devotional service sown in the heart of the devotee may be cultured by pouring water in the form of hearing and chanting of the holy name and pastimes of the Lord. The creeper of devotional service, so nourished, gradually grows, and the devotee, acting as a gardener, goes on pouring the water of constant hearing and chanting. The creeper of devotional service gradually grows so high that it passes through the entire material universe and enters into the spiritual sky, growing still higher and higher until it reaches the planet Goloka Vrindavana. The devotee-gardener is in touch with the abode of the Lord even from the material plane by dint of performing devotional service to the Lord simply by hearing and chanting.” (SB 3.2.6)

In early years, we excitedly hear fairytales and fables. Later in life, we peruse biographies and blogs. In mature years, we share wisdom with the world by recounting events and experiences. It’s clear that storytelling is a universal feature of every country, culture and community in the world. The sages of bygone ages, fully in tune with human psychology, communicated the most profound truths of life through the medium of stories. Vyasadeva, the compiler of Vedic literature, specifically wrote the Puranas in the format of historical stories. Srila Prabhupada, an expert storyteller himself, once wrote to a disciple – “The Vedic literatures are full of instructive stories for the spiritual advancement of the human society. If I get good assistance, I can overflood your country with stories so nice and instructive.” (Letter, 22nd July 1967)