Answer
First of all, please do not use the word "mythology."
The term "mythology" is often used to imply that the subject matter being discussed is merely a collection of myths—stories that are imaginary, fictional, or not based on reality. Therefore, when phrases such as "Hindu mythology" are used, they can convey the impression that the Vedic scriptures are simply fictional tales rather than descriptions of actual events, truths, and spiritual realities.
From the Vedic perspective, this is not the correct understanding. The authentic Vedic scriptures are not presenting imaginary stories. Rather, they contain recorded histories, spiritual truths, philosophical teachings, and descriptions of reality as understood by the great sages and acharyas.
Therefore, it is more appropriate to refer to them as Vedic literature, Vedic scriptures, Vedic history, or Vedic teachings rather than mythology.
Now, regarding the author of Srimad-Bhagavatam, the author is Srila Vyasadeva. He is recognized as the compiler of the Vedic literature and is understood to be an empowered incarnation of the Supreme Lord who appeared at the end of Dvapara-yuga for the purpose of preserving and organizing Vedic knowledge for future generations.
Vyasadeva performed an extraordinary service for humanity. He first divided the original single Veda into four Vedas to make Vedic knowledge more accessible. He then compiled many other scriptures, including the Mahabharata, which presents Vedic teachings in a form understandable to the general population. He also compiled the Upanishads, which contain the philosophical essence of the Vedas, and then summarized the essence of the Upanishads in the Vedanta-sutra.
Despite accomplishing all of this monumental work, Vyasadeva still felt dissatisfied within his heart. He could not understand why a sense of incompleteness remained, even after rendering such tremendous service for the welfare of humanity.
At that time, his spiritual master, Narada Muni, visited him.
When Vyasadeva expressed his dissatisfaction, Narada explained the reason. He pointed out that although Vyasadeva had compiled many scriptures and provided extensive guidance on religion, philosophy, and spiritual life, he had not yet presented a work that exclusively and directly glorified the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Sri Krishna, and pure devotional service unto Him.
Narada instructed him to compose a scripture that would focus entirely on the Supreme Lord, His incarnations, His devotees, and the process of pure devotional service.
Following the instruction of his spiritual master, Vyasadeva entered deep meditation and received realization of the complete truth. Based upon that realization, he composed Srimad-Bhagavatam.
Srimad-Bhagavatam consists of eighteen thousand verses and is regarded as the mature fruit of all Vedic literature. It was specifically compiled for the ultimate benefit of humanity and also brought complete satisfaction to Vyasadeva himself.
The central teaching of Srimad-Bhagavatam is that Sri Krishna is the Supreme Personality of Godhead. All living beings are eternal spiritual souls, parts and parcels of Krishna. Because of the desire to enjoy independently of Him, the living entities have become entangled in material existence.
The solution to this condition is devotional service. Srimad-Bhagavatam explains the science of bhakti-yoga and teaches how one can revive one's forgotten relationship with Krishna and return to one's original spiritual position.
The Bhagavatam describes nine principal processes of devotional service through which one can approach and realize the Supreme Lord. These include hearing about Krishna, chanting His names and glories, remembering Him, serving His lotus feet, worshiping Him, offering prayers, acting as His servant, cultivating friendship with Him, and fully surrendering to Him.
Among these nine processes, especially in the present age of Kali-yuga, Srimad-Bhagavatam places particular emphasis on hearing and chanting—shravanam and kirtanam. By regularly hearing about Krishna and chanting His holy names, a person gradually becomes purified, develops devotion, and ultimately attains the supreme goal of life: returning to the eternal association of the Supreme Lord.
