Hindu Mythology and Westworld: A Modern Allegory for Human Existence

What if, just like the characters in Westworld, our lives are a series of robotic routines driven by an unseen force? This thought struck me both after my first impression of Westworld and my exploration into Hindu mythology. The series raises intriguing questions about the nature of existence and our place within it.

Westworld and Hindu Mythology: A Parallel Universe

Westworld is a multimedia franchise that delves deep into the intricacies of artificial consciousness and the nature of reality. The series poses the question: if the characters in Westworld are robots, is that so different from our condition in the real world? To put it another way, are we not also the results of divine creations—or are we simply robots controlled by the 'Gods'?

Considering Hindu mythology, the idea that humans are puppets of the divine resonates strongly. The concept of humans being manipulated by higher powers is not confined to Hindu beliefs; it is a common theme across various religious and philosophical systems. In this context, the series serves as a modern allegory, reflecting on the age-old question of human existence and our striving for self-realization.

Allegory for Religion

Westworld could easily be interpreted as a metaphor for modern religion. The awe and wonder that the characters in Westworld experience in relation to the 'Gods' can be paralleled to the reverence and faith humans have for religious deities. Both offer explanations for the inexplicable and a sense of purpose within the grand scheme of existence.

The series also touches on themes of self-realization, which aligns closely with Hindu philosophical concepts such as atman (soul) and brahman (ultimate reality). The characters in Westworld are on a quest to find their place within the maze, much like the concept of finding one’s true self in Hindu traditions.

Philosophies of Hinduism and Westworld

Hinduism offers a rich tapestry of philosophical ideas that beautifully align with the themes explored in Westworld. Concepts like reincarnation and the idea of seeking the purpose of life are deeply rooted in Hindu teachings. The characters in Westworld, who are perpetually searching for their true identities, mirror the journey of self-discovery that human beings undertake as they navigate life.

For instance, in the first season of Westworld, Maeve draws a picture of robot-looking men, which then prompts her to encounter children carrying those robot-looking men as toys. This scene can be interpreted as a reflection on the worship of idols and the imitation of divine figures. These images and idols in temples, which we reverently worship, are reminiscent of the characters in Westworld seeking their true form.

Thus, the series serves as a profound reflection on the human quest for meaning and the idea that we may be playing a larger role in a greater cosmic scheme. Just as the artificial humans in Westworld are trying to find their way out of the maze, we, too, are on this perpetual journey of self-discovery.

Reading the stories and philosophies of Hinduism, one can find a deep resonance with the series’ themes. For example, if you explore further, you will notice that the cycle of life, death, and rebirth (samsara) in Hindu philosophy closely aligns with the looped narrative of Westworld, where characters are constantly recreating and re-enacting their destinies.

Westworld, therefore, becomes a modern-day narrative that echoes timeless philosophical questions about our existence. It invites us to ponder the nature of our own lives, placing us all in a similar position as the characters within the series.

Conclusion

Just as Westworld challenges our perceptions of reality and consciousness, Hindu mythology provides a rich cultural backdrop that enriches our understanding of the series. Whether it’s the pursuit of self-realization, the concept of divine creation, or the allegory of human existence, Westworld serves as a powerful exploration of these age-old questions.