Is the story of Narasimha real or mythological?

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Is it a real or a mythological story?

Well, there are two important aspects to consider here.

First of all, the very categorization of “real vs. mythological” is, to some extent, based on an artificial framework—particularly a non-Vedic, Western post-Newtonian way of thinking, where reality is approached in a purely fact-centered manner.

If we look at the Western tradition before the scientific revolution, even their historical writings—such as those by Shakespeare or ancient epics like the Iliad and the Odyssey—were not focused solely on facts. The purpose of history back then was not merely to record events, but to impart values. Facts were present, but they were not the primary focus.

So, when we ask whether something is “real” or “mythological,” often “real” is equated with factuality, and “mythological” with moral lessons minus factual basis. However, from a Vedic perspective, the approach is different. There is real history, but the emphasis is not just on the facts of history—rather, on the values and truths that history reveals.

Now, to address the specific question: Did these events actually happen?

Yes. The universe is vastly more complex than what our senses—or even our technologically-extended senses—can perceive. Whether it’s about space or deep time, our perception remains limited.

Beyond this limited perception, there are many dimensions of reality. And within those, the Lord can appear in extraordinary forms and perform extraordinary deeds. Events like Narasimha Dev appearing from a pillar or Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill are not unscientific—they are superscientific. Divine actions are not against science; they are above science.

Science describes how the universe normally operates, based on the laws established by God—like gravity, electromagnetism, and so on. But God, being the supreme controller, can suspend these laws temporarily for a higher purpose—especially to reciprocate with His devotees.

So, whether it is the ordinary order of nature or the extraordinary suspension of that order, both express God’s will and supremacy. As devotees, we see both natural laws and miracles as expressions of divine intelligence and divine intention.

Thus, these events are historical, but they are not ordinary historical events. They are best described as transcendence manifesting through history. Ordinary history is constrained by time, space, and physical laws. But when the Lord enters into history, He is not bound by those constraints.

Take the example of Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill. Someone might ask: “How could one person lift such a massive mountain? Even lifting a phone with the little finger requires effort and balance—so how could He lift a mountain and balance it on His finger?”

But the answer is: Krishna doesn’t need to find the center of gravity—because He is the source of gravity. Gravity acts under His will. He can bend, suspend, or override it entirely.

So yes, these events may seem miraculous or supernatural, but that doesn’t mean they are fictional.

We can use the word “mythological” in the sense that these stories convey moral and spiritual values—that’s valid.
But if by “mythological” we mean fictional or imaginary, then no, these stories are not mythological in that sense.

They are fantastic, but not fantasy.
“Fantasy” implies fabrication or imagination.
“Fantastic” means they involve extraordinary or awe-inspiring elements beyond normal perception—but they are still real.