Abstract
Sport is an essential constituent of culture prominent in every mythical story worldwide. Indian mythological stories have been bestowed by many athletic heroes who excelled in games such as archery, wrestling, chariot racing, swimming, and hunting. Sports culture disseminates its wings widely through the essential attributes involving physical and mental strengths. Carl Rogers’ psychological theory of self-concept has been taken for this study, along with different contexts of self about spirituality and philosophy. In addition, the concept of self has been explored from the perceptive of some prominent philosophers and spiritual enthusiasts regarding the great Indian mythological legendary athletes. Furthermore, it illustrates the diverse meanings, reasons, and interpretations of how mythical heroes have transformed from ordinary to extraordinary beings. This paper also addresses the rich sporting heritage of India to the contemporary young athletes to take up the motivational lessons from the athletic warriors. Conclusively, this study propels current athletes to understand the sport’s quintessential nature, transform them into stronger individuals, and build them into better role models.
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Both authors contributed to the study conception and design. Material preparation was done by C. Idaya Rani and analyzed by M. Subbu Lakshmi. The first draft of the manuscript was written by C. Idaya Rani and edited by M. Subbu Lakshmi. Both authors read and approved the final manuscript.
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Rani, C.I., Lakshmi, M.S. Sport and Myth: Reviving Indian Ancient Athletes’ Self-Concept in Psychological and Spiritual Dimensions. Hu Arenas (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s42087-023-00356-4
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s42087-023-00356-4