Tales of Itihasa

Nithin Putchakayala

Tales of Itihasa is a podcast that brings to life stories from Indian mythology, ancient wisdom, and history — reimagined and retold with wonder, imagination, a cinematic flair, and a modern voice. Join me, Nithin Putchakayala, your host, each week as we explore the great epics, the “what might have been,” the untold narratives, and the echoes that still whisper through the silence of time. A journey for the curious minds, the daydreamers, and the imaginative souls. ✨ Ancient stories beyond the known.

  1. 10/18/2025

    The Land Remembers

    What makes a place sacred? By the Sona River, beneath star-scattered skies, Ram asks Vishwamitra why this land feels different—why it radiates such peace and vitality. The sage's answer takes them deep into the lineage of ancient kings and reveals a profound truth: the land remembers. It holds the imprint of every deed done upon it, every act of righteousness, every moment of cruelty. But the heart of tonight's story belongs to a hundred daughters—young women of unparalleled beauty and unity—who catch the eye of Vayu, the Wind God himself. When they refuse his proposal with dignity and conviction, his wounded pride turns cruel. In moments, their beauty is shattered. What happens next reveals one of the most powerful teachings in all of dharma. King Kusanabha's daughters choose forgiveness over vengeance. Not because they lack power. Not because they're weak. But because they understand a truth that most never grasp: Every moment spent in anger is a moment surrendered to the one who hurt you. In this episode, discover: ​Why land absorbs the character of those who walk upon it​How a hundred sisters moved as one like waves across an ocean​The moment Vayu's manifestation filled the garden with swirling petals​What true forgiveness looks like when tested by divine cruelty​Why forbearance is the axis around which the cosmos spins​How dharma recognizing dharma creates miraclesThis is more than a story. It's a teaching that will change how you see forgiveness, anger, and the marks we leave upon the world. Episode 13 of Tales of Itihasa—where myths breathe, and imagination flows. Based on Valmiki Ramayana, Bala Kanda, Sargas 32-34 Tales of Itihasa invites you into a moment of myth reimagined — where every step forward is a step deeper into the soul. 🎧 Written and narrated by Nithin Putchakayala ✨ Follow for more epic retellings and mythological reimaginings. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This episode contains a fictionalized version of events and characters inspired by Indian mythology. It is a creative interpretation and not a historical retelling. If any part of this episode unintentionally hurt your beliefs or sentiments, I sincerely apologize. Please feel free to share your feedback and corrections. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talesofitihasa/ Music: https://pixabay.com/music/ambient-meditation-yoga-relaxing-music-380330/ https://pixabay.com/music/modern-classical-history-storytelling-155326/ https://pixabay.com/music/introoutro-peaceful-piano-intro-outro-10072/ https://pixabay.com/music/pop-outro-music-359809/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/fire-sound-efftect-21991/ https://pixabay.com/music/acoustic-group-pentatonic-d-major-365451/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/wind-gust-386158/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/short-gust-of-wind-345741/

    39 min
  2. 09/12/2025

    The Invitation of Mithila: Ram and Lakshman’s Next Journey

    The sacred fire has burned its last, the demons are defeated, and peace returns to Siddha Ashram. As dawn breaks, Rama and Lakshmana prepare to return home—only to be drawn into a new destiny. A messenger arrives, and Sage Vishwamitra reveals an invitation from King Janaka of Mithila. What begins as a simple journey to witness a ritual soon unfolds into the tale of a bow forged in divinity, a trial of strength that no god or mortal has yet conquered. Join me as we follow the princes and the sage on their path from the quiet triumph of Siddha Ashram to the threshold of Mithila, where destiny waits. Tales of Itihasa invites you into a moment of myth reimagined — where every step forward is a step deeper into the soul. 🎧 Written and narrated by Nithin Putchakayala ✨ Follow for more epic retellings and mythological reimaginings. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This episode contains a fictionalized version of events and characters inspired by Indian mythology. It is a creative interpretation and not a historical retelling. If any part of this episode unintentionally hurt your beliefs or sentiments, I sincerely apologize. Please feel free to share your feedback and corrections. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talesofitihasa/ Music: https://pixabay.com/music/modern-classical-peaceful-piano-background-music-218762/ https://pixabay.com/music/beats-autumn-smile-medium-1-396453/ https://pixabay.com/music/introoutro-peaceful-piano-intro-outro-10072/ https://pixabay.com/music/pop-outro-music-359809/

    16 min
  3. 09/05/2025

    The Fire of Judgment: Ram vs. Mareecha and Subahu

    Six days of vigilance have passed at Siddha Ashram. The sacred fire blazes higher, but so do the shadows that seek to consume it. Mareecha, master of deception, and Subahu, devourer of innocence, descend with their horde to destroy the ritual once and for all. Standing in their way are Ram and Lakshman—no longer just princes, but guardians of dharma. In this climactic battle, mercy yields to justice, arrows blaze with divine light, and the fate of dharma itself hangs by a thread. But even in victory, doubt lingers. Did Ram’s arrow end Mareecha… or did destiny spare him for battles yet to come? Join me as we uncover why the prince who once showed compassion to Tataka now unleashes fire and judgment upon her kin. Tales of Itihasa invites you into a moment of myth reimagined — where every step forward is a step deeper into the soul. 🎧 Written and narrated by Nithin Putchakayala ✨ Follow for more epic retellings and mythological reimaginings. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This episode contains a fictionalized version of events and characters inspired by Indian mythology. It is a creative interpretation and not a historical retelling. If any part of this episode unintentionally hurt your beliefs or sentiments, I sincerely apologize. Please feel free to share your feedback and corrections. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talesofitihasa/ Music: https://pixabay.com/music/build-up-scenes-tense-suspense-background-music-376385/ https://pixabay.com/music/modern-classical-history-storytelling-155326/ https://pixabay.com/music/crime-scene-suspense-tense-music-background-384734/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/arrow-swish-03-306040/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/clang-mod-86705/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/big-thunder-clap-99753/ https://pixabay.com/music/main-title-divine-breath-harmony-324549/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/many-arrows-flying-by-306037/ https://pixabay.com/music/main-title-the-epic-battle-361553/ https://pixabay.com/music/ambient-echoes-of-silence-308305/ https://pixabay.com/music/pop-outro-music-359809/

    20 min
  4. 08/29/2025

    Ram’s Relentless Resolve: When Mercy Yields to Justice

    Did you know that Ram once spared Tataka, showing compassion even in battle… but later vowed to end Mareecha and Subahu without hesitation?In this episode of Tales of Itihasa, we witness the young princes of Ayodhya guard Vishwamitra’s sacred ritual at Siddha Ashram. What begins as a test of vigilance soon becomes a revelation: sometimes mercy enables greater cruelty, and justice demands a harsher path. Through firelit nights, whispered vows, and the wisdom of sages, Ram learns to see the difference between pain-driven violence and deliberate evil. His choice marks the turning point of his transformation—from a compassionate prince to a protector who understands that some evils must be ended, not endured. Join us as we explore not just the battle, but the deeper question: When does mercy become complicity? Tales of Itihasa invites you into a moment of myth reimagined — where every step forward is a step deeper into the soul. 🎧 Written and narrated by Nithin Putchakayala ✨ Follow for more epic retellings and mythological reimaginings. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This episode contains a fictionalized version of events and characters inspired by Indian mythology. It is a creative interpretation and not a historical retelling. If any part of this episode unintentionally hurt your beliefs or sentiments, I sincerely apologize. Please feel free to share your feedback and corrections. Music: https://pixabay.com/music/main-title-the-book-of-life-159923/ https://pixabay.com/music/main-title-serious-intense-music-no-copy-right-388798/ https://pixabay.com/music/modern-classical-history-storytelling-155326/ https://pixabay.com/music/chamber-music-gentle-journey-calm-flute-for-documentaries-351909/ https://pixabay.com/music/ambient-celestial-prayer-heavenly-meditation-peaceful-music-353893/ https://pixabay.com/music/pop-outro-music-359809/

    22 min
  5. 08/15/2025

    The Scared Ground: Siddhaashrama

    A playful dawn between two brothers leads to a journey that will test their courage, loyalty, and destiny itself. Ram, Lakshman, and Sage Vishwamitra arrive at the fabled Siddhashram — the Hermitage of Accomplishment — where Dharma has been safeguarded for ages. But the sacred ground holds more than just peace. Vishwamitra’s tale of Vamana and Bali weaves through generations, revealing an extraordinary truth: two avatars of Vishnu, two battles, one family… and a shared ancestor — Sage Kashyapa. As the night deepens and the ritual approaches, unseen eyes watch from the shadows. The hunt has begun. Step into a story where history, myth, and fate collide — and where every connection might change how you see the epics forever. Tales of Itihasa invites you into a moment of myth reimagined — where every step forward is a step deeper into the soul. 🎧 Written and narrated by Nithin Putchakayala ✨ Follow for more epic retellings and mythological reimaginings. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This episode contains a fictionalized version of events and characters inspired by Indian mythology. It is a creative interpretation and not a historical retelling. If any part of this episode unintentionally hurt your beliefs or sentiments, I sincerely apologize. Please feel free to share your feedback and corrections. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talesofitihasa/ Music: https://pixabay.com/music/main-title-ancient-legend-187639/ https://pixabay.com/music/dramatic-classical-slow-rise-cinematic-tense-cello-masterpiece-345244/ https://pixabay.com/music/main-title-uplifting-inspiring-background-music-335137/ https://pixabay.com/music/acoustic-group-easy-travel-short-1-332846/ https://pixabay.com/music/main-title-mystical-orchestral-theme-with-ancient-flute-373571/ https://pixabay.com/music/chamber-music-gentle-journey-calm-flute-for-documentaries-351909/ https://pixabay.com/music/modern-classical-history-storytelling-155326/ https://pixabay.com/music/main-title-serious-intense-music-no-copy-right-388798/ https://pixabay.com/music/upbeat-disrot-peaceful-vibes-outro-223366/ https://pixabay.com/music/pop-outro-music-359809/

    21 min
  6. 08/01/2025

    When Divine Weapons Almost Destroyed the World

    🔥 What happens when the most powerful weapons in existence collide? When Ram and Lakshman decide to test their newly acquired divine astras, what starts as brotherly practice becomes a cosmic catastrophe. Two ultimate weapons - shadow and light - meet in an explosion that threatens to unmake creation itself. ⚡ In this episode, you'll discover: Why divine weapons sometimes choose their own targetsThe terrifying moment when gods' power spirals out of controlHow a miracle of jasmine petals saved all existenceThe secret art of upasamhara - unmaking divine forcesWhy balance is more powerful than any weapon🌟 Did You Know?In ancient texts, counter-astras weren't just defensive weapons - they were cosmic principles of balance. Some could only be stopped by surrender, others by perfect stillness. This episode reveals why even Indra himself feared these forces. 💭 Think About This:Should ultimate power come with built-in safeguards? Or should absolute trust be placed in the wielder? Share your thoughts in the comments! Tales of Itihasa invites you into a moment of myth reimagined — where every step forward is a step deeper into the soul. 🎧 Written and narrated by Nithin Putchakayala ✨ Follow for more epic retellings and mythological reimaginings. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This episode contains a fictionalized version of events and characters inspired by Indian mythology. It is a creative interpretation and not a historical retelling. If any part of this episode unintentionally hurt your beliefs or sentiments, I sincerely apologize. Please feel free to share your feedback and corrections. Instagram: @talesofItihasa Music: https://pixabay.com/music/dramatic-classical-mystical-winds-208083/ https://pixabay.com/music/ambient-morning-in-the-forest-255166/ https://pixabay.com/music/main-title-battle-fighting-warrior-drums-372078/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/arrow-swish-03-306040/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/fire-sounds-356121/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/water-flowing-sound-327661/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/air-or-steam-pressure-release-29600/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/energy-hum-29083/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/many-arrows-flying-by-306037/ https://pixabay.com/music/ambient-ambient-melancholic-background-351771/ https://pixabay.com/music/ambient-celestial-prayer-heavenly-meditation-peaceful-music-353893/ https://pixabay.com/music/indie-pop-ambient-inspiring-rock-149185/

    13 min
  7. 07/25/2025

    The Divine Arsenal: When Power Meets Purpose

    Before swords were drawn and demons were slain, there was silence... and purpose. In this powerful episode of Tales of Itihasa, we follow Ram and Lakshman as they are chosen to receive the most sacred of all weapons — the astras. Guided by the sage Vishwamitra and visited by the god Indra himself, the young princes are no longer mere warriors of Ayodhya. They become guardians of cosmic balance. Experience the awe of divine forces given form — from flaming arrows and thunderbolts to illusions and astras that bend time. But with each gift comes a test: Will power serve dharma, or be consumed by pride? Join us in this gripping journey. Tales of Itihasa invites you into a moment of myth reimagined — where every step forward is a step deeper into the soul. 🎧 Written and narrated by Nithin Putchakayala ✨ Follow for more epic retellings and mythological reimaginings. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This episode contains a fictionalized version of events and characters inspired by Indian mythology. It is a creative interpretation and not a historical retelling. If any part of this episode unintentionally hurt your beliefs or sentiments, I sincerely apologize. Please feel free to share your feedback and corrections. Music: https://pixabay.com/music/main-title-the-book-of-life-159923/ https://pixabay.com/music/mystery-dark-ambient-emotions-music-259996/ https://pixabay.com/music/main-title-epic-action-113888/ https://pixabay.com/music/ambient-celestial-prayer-heavenly-meditation-peaceful-music-353893/ https://pixabay.com/music/adventure-wishes-to-the-world-orchestral-epic-gratitude-to-the-world-191219/

    26 min
  8. 07/18/2025

    Tataka’s Forest: When Compassion Meets Courage

    Before arrows flew and legends were born, there was a forest—wounded, corrupted, forgotten. In this episode of Tales of Itihasa, Ram and Lakshman face their first true test as protectors of dharma. Led by Sage Vishwamitra into the cursed lands of Malada and Karusha, they uncover a history stained with divine sin and monstrous sorrow. But this is not just a tale of demons and battles. It is the story of restraint, compassion, rage, and responsibility. Witness Ram’s inner storm, Lakshman’s fierce devotion, and Vishwamitra’s unwavering belief as they confront Tataka—a demoness with a past—and a forest on the brink of healing or doom. Experience the Ramayana not as a distant myth, but as a living, breathing story of choices and consequences. Tales of Itihasa invites you into a moment of myth reimagined — where every step forward is a step deeper into the soul. 🎧 Written and narrated by Nithin Putchakayala ✨ Follow for more epic retellings and mythological reimaginings. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This episode contains a fictionalized version of events and characters inspired by Indian mythology. It is a creative interpretation and not a historical retelling. If any part of this episode unintentionally hurt your beliefs or sentiments, I sincerely apologize. Please feel free to share your feedback and corrections. Music: https://pixabay.com/music/corporate-sad-story-short-version-197586/ https://pixabay.com/music/mystery-sinister-background-music-307723/ https://pixabay.com/music/ambient-as-the-crow-flies-372030/ https://pixabay.com/music/mystery-frombeneath-321278/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/dark-rumble-tension-370005/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/branches-snapping-northern87-14544/ https://pixabay.com/music/main-title-inspirational-motivational-music-357760/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/twang-100524/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/low-growl-338181/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/falling-tree-356127/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/bats-33995/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/falling-rock-105396/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/sandstorm-222741/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/many-arrows-flying-by-306037/ https://pixabay.com/music/main-title-winning-elevation-111355/ https://pixabay.com/music/upbeat-hero-mass-entry-242739/ https://pixabay.com/music/main-title-victorious-beautiful-cinematic-orchestra-174147/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/loud-thunder-192165/ https://pixabay.com/sound-effects/arrow-swish-03-306040/ https://pixabay.com/music/electronic-relaxing-nature-music-healing-forest-ambience-the-sound-of-trees-337586/ https://pixabay.com/music/ambient-echoes-of-silence-308305/

    35 min
5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Tales of Itihasa is a podcast that brings to life stories from Indian mythology, ancient wisdom, and history — reimagined and retold with wonder, imagination, a cinematic flair, and a modern voice. Join me, Nithin Putchakayala, your host, each week as we explore the great epics, the “what might have been,” the untold narratives, and the echoes that still whisper through the silence of time. A journey for the curious minds, the daydreamers, and the imaginative souls. ✨ Ancient stories beyond the known.