Indian mythology is a treasure trove of epic battles, divine interventions, and timeless moral dilemmas. While stories like the Ramayana and Mahabharata have been told countless times, many lesser-known myths remain hidden in the folds of history. These untold stories are filled with intrigue, powerful characters, and mind-bending narratives that deserve to be brought to life through graphic novels.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most fascinating, yet overlooked stories from Indian mythology that would make for visually stunning and emotionally compelling graphic novels.
The Legend of Ashwatthama
Ashwatthama, the son of Guru Dronacharya, was a warrior of unparalleled skill in the Mahabharata. After the Kurukshetra war, in a fit of rage and vengeance, he unleashed the deadly Brahmastra on the unborn child of Uttara, wiping out the Pandava lineage. Lord Krishna, enraged by this cruel act, cursed Ashwatthama to roam the earth as an immortal, suffering the agony of wounds that would never heal. His forehead gem, which granted him invincibility, was removed, leaving him in eternal pain and isolation.
A graphic novel could reimagine Ashwatthama’s journey through time, where he wanders across centuries, witnessing the rise and fall of empires, meeting historical figures, and attempting to find redemption. How does he cope with eternal life while civilisations around him perish? Would he attempt to change history, or merely be a passive observer of the passage of time? His encounters with mystical sages, lost knowledge of ancient texts, and secret cults who worship him as a divine being could add further layers to this narrative.
Perhaps he embarks on a quest to lift his curse, seeking out powerful relics and forbidden rituals while battling inner demons. This story could blend history, fantasy, and philosophy, making for an intense and immersive experience, exploring the existential burden of immortality and the price of vengeance.
The Mystery of Kalki
While we know about Rama and Krishna, little is discussed about Kalki, the prophesied tenth avatar of Vishnu. It is believed that Kalki will descend upon Earth during the Kali Yuga to destroy evil and bring a new age of righteousness. Unlike previous avatars, Kalki is said to arrive not as a god-born prince or a divine child, but as a warrior who emerges from the chaos of a world plagued by greed, violence, and spiritual decay.
A graphic novel could imagine the world in its final days of darkness, where corruption and chaos reign, and the coming of a warrior who wields the celestial sword to restore balance. This futuristic yet mythologically grounded tale could explore how society crumbles under unchecked technological advancements, climate collapse, and wars between powerful factions.
In a cyberpunk-inspired world where ancient prophecies are buried under layers of misinformation, how would Kalki recognise his destiny? Would he be hunted by world leaders fearing his power? Could he battle against bio-engineered demons or AI-driven forces that seek to reshape human destiny? This adaptation could mix mythology with sci-fi and dystopian elements, creating a visually electrifying spectacle that redefines what it means to be a divine saviour in the modern age.
Uloopi, The Naga Princess
Uloopi, the serpent princess of the Naga clan, is one of the wives of Arjuna. Unlike Draupadi, she is rarely mentioned in popular retellings, yet her story is one of immense courage, sacrifice, and political significance. Uloopi was not just a passive consort; she was a fierce warrior, a master of illusion, and a strategic leader in the Naga kingdom. She played a crucial role in reviving Arjuna when he was fatally injured, using her mystical abilities to bring him back to life.
Beyond her role as a healer, Uloopi’s political influence extended deep into the affairs of the Kuru dynasty. As a Naga princess, she navigated the tensions between her people and the Pandavas, ensuring peace and alliances that would shape the future of the kingdom. Her deep knowledge of ancient magic and her ability to manipulate the elements made her a formidable presence in both battle and diplomacy.
A graphic novel could delve into her struggles—her attempts to balance love and duty, her inner conflicts regarding her identity as both a warrior and a wife, and her relentless pursuit of justice for her people. Her story could explore themes of loyalty, love, resilience, and the price of power, creating a compelling and dynamic female protagonist in the realm of mythology. Through stunning visuals and deep character development, a graphic novel adaptation could finally give Uloopi the recognition she deserves.
The Invincible but Forgotten Barbarika
Barbarika, the grandson of Bhima, was a warrior with three divine arrows, each capable of destroying his enemies instantly. His power was so immense that he had vowed to fight for the weaker side, ensuring that balance was maintained in any battle. However, Krishna, recognising the potential devastation Barbarika’s power could unleash, disguised himself as a Brahmin and tricked Barbarika into offering his head as a sacrifice before the war began.
But what if Barbarika had entered the battlefield? A graphic novel could explore a parallel universe where he was not stopped. How would the war have unfolded with a warrior who could end it in mere moments? Would he remain loyal to his vow and constantly shift allegiances, tipping the scales unpredictably? Could Krishna find another way to neutralise his power without resorting to trickery? This storyline could delve into the concept of absolute power, moral dilemmas, and the consequences of divine intervention.
A graphic novel adaptation could also explore Barbarika’s journey beyond death. Some legends suggest that his severed head was placed on a hill to witness the war unfold. What thoughts would run through his mind as he watched destiny unfold without him? Could he become a guiding force or even a hidden orchestrator of events? A story of fate, sacrifice, and power, Barbarika’s tale offers limitless storytelling possibilities that challenge the very nature of war and justice.
The Vengeful Shikhandi
Shikhandi, born as a woman and later transformed into a man, was the reincarnation of Amba. Amba, wronged and humiliated by Bhishma, sought revenge even in her next life, vowing to be the cause of his downfall. This reincarnation gave her a second chance at justice, but it also came with immense inner turmoil and societal rejection.
As a child, Shikhandi faced ostracisation and confusion regarding identity, struggling to find acceptance in a world that adhered strictly to traditional gender norms. Despite this, she trained rigorously in warfare, honing her skills in combat, archery, and strategy. With each passing year, the fire of vengeance burned stronger, shaping Shikhandi into a warrior whose very existence was tied to a divine prophecy.
When the Kurukshetra War began, Shikhandi became the crucial key in Bhishma’s defeat. Knowing that Bhishma had vowed never to attack a woman, Krishna and Arjuna strategically placed Shikhandi before Bhishma, ensuring his downfall. However, the weight of destiny and revenge left Shikhandi questioning whether justice had truly been served or if the cycle of vengeance had merely continued.
A graphic novel adaptation could explore these powerful themes—the struggles of identity, gender transformation, and the quest for retribution—turning Shikhandi into a deeply compelling protagonist for modern audiences.
The Curse of Gandhari
Gandhari, the mother of the Kauravas, is often portrayed as a tragic figure, but her story holds immense power. After witnessing the destruction of her 100 sons, she cursed Krishna, foretelling the destruction of his entire Yadava clan. A graphic novel could depict the psychological turmoil of a mother who loses everything, the intensity of her curse, and the tragic downfall of Krishna’s dynasty. This could be an emotional and visually dramatic storyline, offering a fresh perspective on a well-known epic.
The Many Lives of Narada
Gandhari, the mother of the Kauravas, is often portrayed as a tragic figure, but her story holds immense power and depth beyond the usual narratives. Despite her unwavering devotion to her husband Dhritarashtra and her dutiful adherence to the customs of the time, she bore the immense burden of witnessing the brutal downfall of her 100 sons in the Kurukshetra war. This grief transformed into an unshakable wrath that led her to curse Krishna, foretelling the complete destruction of his Yadava clan.
A graphic novel could explore Gandhari’s internal struggles, her emotional turmoil, and the weight of her curse—was she merely fulfilling destiny, or did she become an unwilling agent of divine justice? It could also dive into her relationship with her husband, her silent suffering, and the tragic irony of her wisdom being ignored throughout the war. The curse itself could be illustrated as a force of divine energy, unravelling Krishna’s lineage in an almost poetic, yet devastating manner.
Moreover, this adaptation could showcase Gandhari’s role as a mother, a queen, and a woman whose voice, though restrained, echoed through history. Did she regret her curse, or did she see it as justice? This storyline could be a deeply emotional and visually dramatic retelling, offering a fresh perspective on a well-known epic and bringing to life a figure whose sorrow shaped the fate of kingdoms.
Ghatotkacha, The Demon Prince
Ghatotkacha, the son of Bhima and the Rakshasi Hidimba, was a half-demon warrior who played a pivotal role in the Mahabharata. Born of a human father and a rakshasi mother, he inherited immense strength, mystical abilities, and a deep connection to the supernatural. As the leader of the Rakshasa army, he was known for his unparalleled combat skills and mastery over illusionary warfare. His ability to change form, summon demonic forces, and harness elemental powers made him a formidable force on the battlefield.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Ghatotkacha’s character was his unwavering loyalty to the Pandavas. Unlike many warriors of his time, he fought not for personal glory but out of a sense of duty and devotion to his family. His strength multiplied at night, making him nearly invincible in battle.
His ultimate sacrifice came at a crucial moment in the Kurukshetra war. Karna, possessing the Vasavi Shakti, a celestial weapon given by Indra, had reserved it for Arjuna. However, Krishna, aware of the weapon's deadly power, orchestrated events so that Karna would use it against Ghatotkacha instead. As he fell, Ghatotkacha expanded his body, crushing countless Kaurava soldiers, ensuring that his death would not be in vain.
A graphic novel adaptation could explore his early years in the Rakshasa kingdom, his struggles with identity, and his rise as a warrior. Additionally, it could delve into his relationship with his mother Hidimba, his role as a protector of his people, and the psychological weight of knowing he was born to die for a greater cause. By blending elements of horror, fantasy, and mythology, Ghatotkacha’s story could be transformed into an unforgettable visual masterpiece that captures both his ferocity and his tragic heroism.
Chitrangada
Unlike most heroines in Indian mythology, Chitrangada was not a damsel in distress. She was a warrior princess, trained in combat and warfare from a young age, and ruled the kingdom of Manipur independently. As the only child of King Chitravahana, she was raised as his successor, breaking the traditional expectations of women in royal households.
When Arjuna, the Pandava prince, arrived in Manipur during his exile, he was captivated by Chitrangada’s valour and beauty. However, their love story was far from conventional. Unlike other queens who were often expected to be submissive, Chitrangada demanded that she be seen as an equal. She made it clear that her duties as a ruler would always come first and that she would not abandon her people even after marriage. This unique stance on love and duty makes her one of the most intriguing female figures in Indian mythology.
A graphic novel cantered on her journey could delve into her internal struggles—her desire for love versus her duty to her kingdom. It could explore her transformation, not just in her relationship with Arjuna but in her realisation of self-worth, independence, and leadership. Additionally, the tale could incorporate elements of war, politics, and personal growth, making it an empowering story of feminism and mythology. Through stunning artwork and dynamic storytelling, Chitrangada’s tale could inspire modern audiences, showcasing a heroine who defied societal norms and shaped her own destiny.
The Battle of Indra and Vritra
Vritra, the cosmic serpent, was a powerful and feared asura who challenged the very balance of the universe. He seized control of the celestial waters, causing drought and devastation across the land. Indra, the king of gods and the wielder of thunder, initially attempted to confront Vritra alone but was soundly defeated, losing not only his honour but also his dominion over the heavens.
This tale, often overshadowed by more well-known myths, presents a compelling narrative of divine warfare, redemption, and political intrigue. Indra, stripped of his power and shunned by his fellow deities, was forced to seek the help of higher cosmic forces, including Vishnu and the rishis, to reclaim what was lost. The gods crafted a divine weapon, the Vajra, forged from the bones of the great sage Dadhichi, symbolising the ultimate sacrifice for the greater good.
A graphic novel adaptation could vividly bring to life the titanic battle between Indra and Vritra, depicting a war where the elements themselves raged. It could also explore Indra’s inner struggle—his arrogance leading to his downfall, his exile, and the path to reclaiming his divine right. The story could blend high fantasy and cosmic horror, showcasing Indra’s evolution from a reckless warrior to a humbled, strategic leader who learns that true power lies not just in might, but in wisdom and unity. This tale could redefine Indra’s legacy, making him more than just a god of storms, but a hero who had to rise again after his greatest fall.
Conclusion
Graphic novels provide a powerful medium to reimagine mythology with rich visuals, deep storytelling, and fresh perspectives. Unlike traditional retellings, a graphic novel can visually enhance complex battles and divine beings, appeal to modern audiences with fresh interpretations and explore untold and marginalised stories in a bold way. By bringing these myths to life in a graphic novel format, we not only preserve Indian mythology but also reinvent it for a new generation.
Which of These Stories Excites You the Most? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Which mythological story do you think deserves a graphic novel adaptation? Let us know in the comments!