Humanity has always been fascinated by the unknown. The idea that something magical and deadly exists has lodged itself into cultures as myths and legends. Every country has its own share of folklore and mythical creatures, some obscure and others more prominent.
The ‘Loch Ness’ is a creature from Scottish folklore that is said to inhabit the Scottish Highlands. It is often described as large and long-necked, with one or more humps protruding from the water. Many people have claimed to sight this mysterious monster and it stays a household name for many people across the globe. In Russia, Belarus, Slovakia, Ukraine, Montenegro, and Bulgaria, the Baba Yaga is the most popular creature that runs rampant in forests. She is said to be an old and deformed witch that has cannibalistic tendencies.
The most famous mythological creature in South America is the La Tunda, originating in Columbia. This is a one-legged hag whose signature behavior is making seafood stink and offering it to her prey. Her victims are typically unfaithful men and children who misbehave. The Middle East is the home of the Jinn, the mythical genies who live in inanimate objects and grant wishes and can assume either human or animal form. I’m sure many of us were eager to meet a genie in our childhood and had our own three wishes ready for such an occasion!
The Adaro are creatures that have swordfish-like spears growing from their heads and they attack by throwing poisonous flying fish at the victim’s neck. They dominate the Oceania region. The Namibian Flying Snake is native to Africa. It is said to be up to 25 feet long with a 30-foot wingspan and has a bioluminescent crest, horns, an inflatable neck, and an ear-shattering roar. It feeds on livestock and often frightens farmers.
The above are only a few examples of the myths that are present in the world. We do not know if they are some sort of unexplained phenomena or just a distorted version of an ancient happening. These stories have been passed on through generations and can be traced back to 500 AD.
Personally, I sometimes believe that there are no mythical creatures, just creatures man drove into hiding!
-Dia Jaiswal
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