The story within the story

 THE TALE OF TALES - The girl who outsmarted the travellers

Long ago, when the Earth was still an open canvas, people lived as wanderers. They travelled from one place to another in search of food, shelter, and clothing. With no radio, no television, and no telephones, people turned to stories for entertainment. Stories carried wisdom, knowledge, and laughter from one generation to the next.

It was common for travellers to exchange tales for a place to rest, or even for food. A good storyteller could earn a warm meal, and sometimes, even escape a hard day’s work.

One evening, a group of weary friends arrived at a resting spot after a long day’s journey. Hungry and tired, they began to argue about who should fetch firewood and cook dinner. None of them wished to move. Just then, they saw a young girl walking along the same path.

“Ah,” whispered one traveller perhaps she can help us.”

They stopped her and asked, “Little one, would you like to hear some stories?”

The girl’s eyes lit up. She loved stories more than anything. “Yes, I would love that,” she said eagerly.

The travellers smiled at each other, for they had a plan. “Let’s make it interesting,” one of them suggested. “We will tell you stories that sound impossible. If you say they are impossible, you must cook for us. But if you tell us a story, and we say it’s impossible, then we must cook for you.”

The girl agreed.

The first traveller began:

“My grandfather was a poor farmer. He worked in a rich man’s house, where he was mocked every day for being slow and clumsy. Yet, he never stopped praying to God. One night, God appeared to him in a dream, and when he woke, he felt an immense power flowing through his body.

The next time his master scolded him, that power rushed to his veins. He grew in size, lifted the entire house on his shoulders, and leapt high into the air! The cupboards crashed, the beds flew, and the windows shattered. His master trembled with fear and begged him to stop. From that day onward, he was no longer a servant but treated as part of the family.”

The traveller finished and asked, “Well? Do you agree with my story?”

The group and the girl nodded. No one disagreed.

The second traveller stepped forward with his tale:

“My grandfather lived through a terrible famine. He was weak and had little to his name. One day, after quarreling with his brother, he wandered into a forest and saw a man painting. To his amazement, the man painted a deer that sprang to life!

Greedy for this magical brush, my grandfather tricked the painter. He painted a boat with the man inside it, added strong winds, and blew him far away. Now the brush was his. He painted clouds heavy with rain and fields filled with grain. His village prospered, and he was made treasurer.

In time, he painted a son, and later a beautiful daughter for his son to marry. And so, I was born to painted parents. The brush is gone now, but perhaps my smooth hair is a gift from it. I still use the best herbs from the best orchard that my grandfather once painted.”

He finished with a proud smile. “Do you agree with my story?”

“Yes, we all do,” said the group and the girl.

Now it was the young girl’s turn. She sat tall and began:

“My grandparents were noble people, respected for their strength and generosity. They possessed treasures of great power—a chest filled with hulk-like strength and magical objects such as a wish-granting paintbrush.

But during a time of civil strife, their servants betrayed them and fled with these possessions. My parents spent their lives searching, and today, I too have set out on this quest. And here, at last, I find those possessions—with you. You are the long-lost servants of my family who stole from us.”

The travellers shifted uncomfortably.

The girl finished firmly, “This is the end of my story. Do you agree?”

The group stammered. “Yes… we do.”

“Excellent,” said the girl with a smile. “Now, return my possessions.”

The travellers quickly backtracked. “No, no—we don’t agree after all!”

The girl’s eyes twinkled. “Ah, but if you disagree, then the rules say you must cook for me.”

The travellers realised they had been outwitted. With no choice left, they gathered firewood, lit the fire, and cooked a fine meal.

And so, while the tired travellers toiled over pots and pans, the clever girl rested peacefully, listening to the crackle of the fire and savouring her victory.

From that day, the story of the little girl’s wit spread far and wide, reminding everyone that cleverness can be stronger than strength—and that a good story can win you more than just a smile.

From Kurukshetra to Kitchens Worldwide

THE UDUPI KING AND KRISHNA’S BLESSING 

The Mahabharata was the greatest war of its time because there was hardly any kingdom that did not take part in it.

Rulers from India, Afghanistan, and even Iran chose sides—either with the Kauravas or the Pandavas. Yet, one southern kingdom stood apart, even while present on the battlefield: the kingdom of Udupi.

When the King of Udupi arrived at Kurukshetra with his army, both Kauravas and Pandavas tried to win him over. But the king was extremely farsighted. He approached Shri Krishna and asked:

“O Madhava! Everyone seems eager to fight this war. But has anyone considered how food will be arranged for such a massive army gathered here?”

Shri Krishna replied with a smile,

“Maharaj, you have raised an excellent question. From your words, I sense you already have a plan. Please tell me what you have in mind.”

The Udupi king said,

“O Vasudeva! A war between brothers seems unjust to me, and I do not wish to fight. But it is also true that this war cannot be avoided. So I have decided that I, along with my army, will stay here and arrange food for all the soldiers who will fight.”

Hearing this, Krishna said joyfully,

“Maharaj, your thought is noble! In this war, fifty lakh warriors will fight. If a capable king like you manages their food, we can rest assured. I also know that only two people could manage such a vast army’s meals—Bhima and you. But since Bhima must fight, I request you to take this responsibility.”

Thus, the King of Udupi took charge of feeding the armies.

On the very first day, he provided food for all the warriors so efficiently that not a single grain was wasted. As the days passed and the number of soldiers decreased, his arrangements remained perfect. Both sides wondered,

“How does the Udupi king know exactly how much food to prepare each day?”

Managing meals for such a massive army was itself a miracle, but doing it with absolute precision was nothing short of divine.

Finally, the war ended with the Pandavas’ victory. On the day of his coronation, Yudhishthira asked the Udupi king,

“Maharaj, all the kings praise us for defeating such a mighty army, led by great warriors like Bhishma, Dronacharya, and Karna, despite our small force. But I feel you deserve more praise than us—you fed millions of warriors without wasting even a single grain. What is your secret?”

The Udupi king smiled and asked,

“O Emperor, to whom do you give credit for your victory?”

Yudhishthira replied,

“To none other than Shri Krishna. Without Him, defeating the Kauravas would have been impossible.”

The king said gently,

“Just as you credit Shri Krishna for your victory, I credit Him for my miracle.”

Everyone was surprised. The king revealed the secret:

“Every night, Shri Krishna would eat groundnuts (peanuts). I would quietly count the shells He left behind. The number of peanuts He ate foretold the number of soldiers who would die the next day. If He ate 50 peanuts, then 50,000 soldiers would perish in the battle. Based on this, I would prepare the food. That is why no food was ever wasted.”

On hearing this divine secret, everyone bowed down in reverence to Shri Krishna.

It is said that Shri Krishna blessed the Udupi king:

“Because you arranged food with such devotion and skill, I bless you and your people. From now on, the men of your kingdom will naturally possess the talent to prepare pure, sattvic meals that will be renowned across the world.”

That is why, even today, Udupi people have opened restaurants across India and abroad. Their cuisine is famous everywhere, and due to Krishna’s blessing, Udupi restaurants serve only sattvic—pure, wholesome—food.

Even in modern times, it is rare to find a city in India without an Udupi restaurant, and overseas too, these restaurants flourish—still carrying the echo of Krishna’s ancient blessing.

This story is one of the rare tales from the Mahabharata and is often narrated in the Krishna Matha of Udupi, which was established by the King of Udupi himself. 

Story from Panchatantra

THE WEAVER’S SHORTSIGHTED WISH 

In a quiet little village, there lived a poor weaver named Mandharaka. No matter how hard he worked, he barely earned enough to feed his family. One day, burdened by his troubles, he wandered into the nearby forest. There, he unexpectedly met a kind-hearted Yaksha—a celestial being—who offered to grant him a boon.

Mandharaka was overjoyed but unsure what to ask for. Wanting to make the best choice, he hurried home to consult his wife. She thought for a moment and said,

“If you had two heads and four arms, you could weave twice as fast, finish more work, and earn more money. That would solve all our problems!”

Trusting her advice, Mandharaka returned to the Yaksha and made this unusual request. The Yaksha smiled and immediately granted the boon. To Mandharaka’s amazement, he now had two heads and four arms! Feeling proud and excited about the future, he walked back to his village.

But when the villagers saw him, they were terrified. To them, Mandharaka looked like a fearsome demon. Panic spread quickly, and without thinking, they attacked him with sticks and stones. The poor weaver, who had only wished for prosperity, was killed on the spot—destroyed not by enemies, but by his own short-sighted wish.

Moral: Quick fixes and shortsighted decisions may seem promising, but without foresight and wisdom, they can lead to disaster instead of lasting growth.

A Folktale from Tamil Nadu

THE CLEVER WIFE’S MORTAR TRICK 

This is a funny folktale from Tamil Nadu, a state in southern India known for its rich traditions, delicious food, and colourful festivals. Folktales like this were told by elders to make people laugh while also teaching a lesson.

Long ago, in a small village, there lived a poor but kind man named Ponnan. He didn’t have much, but he always shared whatever little food he had—even with strangers! His wife often scolded him, saying,

“Please think of our family! You keep bringing strangers home for lunch. What will we eat?”

But Ponnan’s heart was too big to say no.

One morning, after Ponnan left for work, his wife saw two men coming towards their hut, rubbing their stomachs. She guessed Ponnan had invited them for lunch again. “Oh no, not today!” she thought, frowning.

Just then, her eyes fell on the large mortar and pestle she used to pound rice in. An idea lit up her face.

She dragged the heavy mortar to the middle of the room, scrubbed it clean until it shone, and smeared bright saffron paste on top. Then, she draped a fresh flower garland around it. Soon, it looked like a sacred idol being worshipped!

She sat cross-legged in front of it, rocking it gently and chanting strange-sounding mantras. Her ears pricked up as the men stepped inside.

“Ah, here comes the feast!” whispered one man to the other. But they froze when they saw the decorated mortar and pestle.

“What’s going on here?” one asked nervously.

Ponnan’s wife smiled sweetly. “Didn’t my husband tell you? This is his special deity. It’s… unusual.”

“Unusual? How?” they asked.

Lowering her voice, she said slowly, “It demands… human blood.”

The men’s eyes grew wide with fear. “Yes,” she continued, “My husband brings guests home, then hits them on the head with the pestle to offer their blood!”

Terrified, the men turned and ran out—just as Ponnan returned.

Ponnan saw them running and asked his wife, “What happened?”

“They wanted the pestle,” she said casually, “but I refused to give it.”

“What? You silly woman!” cried Ponnan, grabbing the pestle. “Wait! Take the pestle!” he shouted, running after them.

The poor guests, already frightened out of their wits, thought Ponnan was indeed chasing them with the deadly pestle. They ran faster and faster until they disappeared from sight, never to trouble Ponnan’s family again.

When Ponnan returned home, puzzled, his wife burst out laughing and told him the whole story. At last, even Ponnan had to smile and admit, “Today, your cleverness has fed us better than my kindness!”

That evening, the family enjoyed their simple meal in peace—thanks to the wife’s quick wit and presence of mind.

Moral of the Story:

Quick thinking and cleverness can save you from difficult situations. Wisdom is sometimes more valuable than strength or wealth.

Folktale from Santhal tribes

THE BULLOCK THAT GAVE BIRTH TO A CALF 

Once upon a time, there was a poor cowherd named Sona. He bought a small calf and was taking it home. On the way, he stayed at a villager’s house. The villager was a greedy oilman. At night, the oilman made a trick. He put oilcake on the calf, untied his bullock, and let it lick the calf. Then he called the villagers and said, “Look! My bullock has given birth to this calf!”

In the morning, when Sona wanted to take his calf, the oilman stopped him. The villagers believed the oilman and asked, “If your calf is really yours, why was the bullock licking it?” Poor Sona was very sad and went into the forest.

There, a bird called chappa (nightjar) and a jackal promised to help him. They came with Sona to the village. First, the bird said, “I had a dream. I saw an egg sitting on another egg.” Then the jackal said, “I also had a dream. I saw the sea on fire.”

The villagers laughed, “These dreams are impossible! An egg cannot sit on another egg, and the sea cannot burn!”

The bird replied, “If these are impossible, then how can a bullock give birth to a calf?”

The villagers understood their mistake. They returned the calf to Sona and punished the greedy oilman.

Moral: Truth always wins, and lies can never last long.

An inspiring story of devotion

PRAHLAD

The story of Prahlad is one of the most inspiring and powerful tales in Hindu mythology, especially in the Vaishnava tradition. It symbolises the triumph of devotion (bhakti) and righteousness over pride and evil, while also highlighting the omnipresence and protective grace of Lord Vishnu.

The Demon King Hiranyakashipu: The tale begins with the mighty Asura king, Hiranyakashipu, who was filled with anger and revenge. His younger brother, Hiranyaksh, had been slain by Vishnu in His Varaha (boar) avatar. Consumed by grief and fury, Hiranyakashipu performed severe penance to please Lord Brahma, seeking a boon that would make him virtually immortal.

His boon was carefully worded:

He could not be killed by man or beast,

Neither by day nor night,

Neither indoors nor outdoors,

Neither on land, water, nor in the air,

And not by any weapon.

Brahma granted this boon, and Hiranyakashipu, believing himself invincible, grew arrogant. He declared himself the supreme ruler and god, demanding that all his subjects worship him alone. Those who resisted were punished or killed.

Prahlad’s birth and devotion: While Hiranyakashipu was deep in penance, his wife Kayadhu was taken into the care of the sage Narad. During this time, Narad narrated stories of Lord Vishnu to her, and these divine teachings reached her unborn child. Thus, Prahlad, even before birth, was filled with unwavering devotion to Lord Vishnu.

From childhood, Prahlad was extraordinary. He constantly chanted Vishnu’s name, meditated on Him, and spread His glory. This enraged his father, who could not tolerate his son worshipping his sworn enemy. Despite Hiranyakashipu’s threats and harsh punishments, Prahlad’s devotion remained firm and fearless.

The Trials of Prahlad

Blinded by anger, Hiranyakashipu tried in many ways to kill his son:

Prahlad was thrown from a cliff, but survived.

He was trampled by elephants, but remained unharmed.

Venomous snakes were set upon him, but their poison did not work.

He was given poisoned food, but it turned harmless.

Each time, Prahlad emerged safe under the divine protection of Vishnu.

One of the most famous trials involved Hiranyakashipu’s sister Holika, who had a boon that made her immune to fire. She sat on a burning pyre with Prahlad in her lap, hoping to burn him alive. 

But Prahlad’s devotion saved him. Holika perished in the flames, while Prahlad came out unhurt. This incident is remembered in the festival of Holi, where bonfires symbolise the victory of good over evil.

The Arrival of Narasimha: At last, enraged by his son’s defiance, Hiranyakashipu confronted Prahlad.

“Where is your Vishnu now?” he thundered.

Calmly, Prahlad replied, “He is everywhere.”

Mocking him, Hiranyakashipu pointed to a pillar in his palace. “Is He in this pillar too?”

“Yes,” answered Prahlad with unshaken faith.

In furious disbelief, Hiranyakashipu struck the pillar with his mace. To everyone’s astonishment, the pillar cracked open and from it emerged Lord Vishnu in the form of Narasimha—a terrifying half-man, half-lion incarnation.

Narasimha seized Hiranyakashipu and fulfilled the conditions of the boon in a divine way:

He killed him at twilight (neither day nor night),

On the threshold of the palace (neither indoors nor outdoors),

Placed him on His lap (neither on earth, water, nor air),

And tore him apart with His claws (not a weapon, neither man nor beast).

Thus, Vishnu destroyed the tyrant without breaking Brahma’s boon, proving that divine justice always prevails.

The Aftermath: Narasimha’s anger was so fierce that even the gods trembled, but Prahlad, with his pure heart and humility, approached Him fearlessly. With folded hands, he sang praises of Vishnu, and it was only his devotion that calmed Narasimha’s fury.

Prahlad was then blessed and made king. He ruled the Asuras with wisdom, justice, and righteousness. His story became a shining example of unwavering faith, the power of devotion, and the ultimate victory of good over evil.

✨ Moral of the Story: True devotion and faith in God can protect us from even the greatest dangers. Pride and arrogance may seem powerful, but in the end, humility and righteousness always triumph.

A symbol of selfless sacrifice

THE STORY OF KING SHIBI 

Long ago, there was a noble and just king named Shibi. He was known for his truthfulness, kindness, and sense of justice. The gods decided to test his generosity and courage.

One day, a dove, trembling with fear, flew into his court and cried out, “O King! Save me! A hawk is chasing me!”

Just then, the hawk appeared and said, “O King, I am hungry. That dove is my food. If you protect him, I will starve.”

King Shibi was in a dilemma. He wanted to protect the innocent dove, but he also did not want the hawk to go hungry. So, he made a brave decision.

He said, “I will not let any creature suffer in my kingdom. I will give you my own flesh, equal in weight to the dove.”

A pair of scales was brought. The dove was placed on one side, and the king began placing pieces of his own flesh on the other. But no matter how much he gave, the scales did not balance. 

Finally, King Shibi himself sat on the scale — and it balanced!

At that moment, the dove and hawk turned into gods — Agni (the fire god) and Indra (the king of gods). They were testing the king's virtue and were pleased by his selfless sacrifice. They blessed him and healed his wounds.

✨ Moral of the Story:

True greatness lies in selflessness, compassion, and courage. King Shibi is remembered even today for his unshakable values and devotion to dharma (duty).

The boy who became the Pole Star

 THE STORY OF DHRUV 

Long ago, in the golden age of truth, there lived a noble king named Uttanapada, a ruler from the solar dynasty. He had two queens — Suniti, the elder and virtuous, and Suruchi, the younger and beautiful, but proud. Suniti had a son named Dhruv, and Suruchi’s son was named Uttama.

💔 A Moment of Pain

One day, little Dhruv, just five years old, saw his stepbrother Uttam sitting on his father’s lap in the royal court. Innocently, he too approached his father and wished to sit on the king’s lap.

But Queen Suruchi stopped him sharply. She said:

"You cannot sit on the king’s lap, child. You are not born of me. If you want such a place, you must be born again—from my womb—and earn the king’s favour through penance!"

These cruel words pierced Dhruv’s young heart. His father remained silent, unable to stand up for his son. Humiliated and in tears, Dhruv ran back to his mother.

Seeing her son in distress, Suniti comforted him and said:

"My child, do not be angry. Those who wrong us act from ignorance. If you truly seek a place that can never be taken away, seek it from the Lord Himself—seek it from Vishnu, who gives everything to the sincere."

Her words awakened something powerful in Dhruv. He said:

"I will find Lord Vishnu, and I will earn a place that not even death can take from me!"

🧘 The Journey of Tapasya

Though only five years old, Dhruv left the palace and went deep into the forest. His resolve was unshakable.

There, by divine arrangement, he met Sage Narada, the celestial musician and wise teacher. Narada tested him first, saying:

"You are just a boy, Dhruv. Go back to your mother. This path is too difficult."

But Dhruv stood firm. Seeing his determination, Narada was moved. He taught Dhruv the sacred mantra:

"Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya"

He instructed him to meditate upon Lord Vishnu in the Madhuvana forest, on the banks of the Yamuna.

For six months, Dhruv performed severe tapasya. Each month, he reduced his intake — from fruits, to leaves, to water, to air — and finally stopped even breathing. Standing on one leg, he meditated without moving, his mind fixed on Lord Vishnu alone.

The Earth trembled with the power of his penance. The gods became fearful and approached Lord Vishnu.

✨ Divine Reward

At last, Vishnu could no longer delay. He appeared before Dhruv, resplendent and radiant, holding the Shankha, Chakra, Gada, and Padma in His four arms.

Dhruv opened his eyes and gazed at the Lord with tears of joy. But he said nothing.

Vishnu asked him,

"Dear child, I am pleased. Ask me for any boon."

Dhruv bowed his head and said,

"O Lord, I sought You for a kingdom, but now that I have seen You, all those desires seem so small. I only wish to remember You always."

Vishnu, deeply touched, said:

"Because of your devotion, I grant you the highest place in the heavens. You shall become the Pole Star — firm, eternal, unmoving. Even great sages will look to you for direction. The Saptarishis will circle around you in the night sky."

👑 The Glorious Ending

Dhruv returned home, was welcomed by the king, and became a wise and just ruler. He ruled for 36,000 years (as per scripture), bringing peace and prosperity. When his time came, a celestial chariot arrived to take him to the heavens—not to the land of death, but to the stars.

Today, Dhruv Tara still shines in the northern sky, unmoved and brilliant. He is a symbol of faith, devotion, and determination.

🪔 What Makes Dhruv’s Story Unique?

He is the youngest known yogi in Hindu scriptures.

His goal changed — from seeking royal recognition to spiritual liberation.

His devotion was fearless, even when gods were worried.

He is honoured not only for his tapasya, but for his purity and transformation.

🌌 Did You Know?

Dhruva Tara (Polaris) is not just a star in the sky. In ancient India, it was seen as the axis of the cosmos, the symbol of truth that never moves.

The Saptarishis who orbit Dhruva are the stars of Ursa Major (Great Bear), visible in the night sky.

What We Learn from Dhruv’s Story:

Even a child, with true faith, focus, and determination, can achieve the impossible.

When the world turns away, we can always turn toward God and inner strength.

Greatness is not in power or position — it lies in selflessness and devotion.

So, the next time you look at the stars, try to spot the Pole Star, and remember the brave little boy who became eternal — Dhruv.

Japanese folktale

THE TONGUE-CUT SPARROW (舌切り雀, SHITA-KIRI SUZUME)

The Tongue-Cut Sparrow is a very well-known and beloved traditional Japanese folktale. It's a classic example of a moralistic story found in many cultures, where kindness is rewarded and greed is punished.

Once upon a time, there lived a kind old man and his greedy, ill-tempered wife. The old man loved a little sparrow that often visited their home, and he would feed it and care for it as if it were his own child. The sparrow, in turn, would sing beautiful songs for him.

One day, while the old man was out, the sparrow accidentally ate some starch that the old woman had prepared for her laundry. Enraged by this, the cruel old woman grabbed the sparrow and, in a fit of anger, cut out its tongue before driving it away.

When the old man returned and learned what had happened, he was heartbroken. He set out on a journey to find his beloved sparrow. After a long search, with the help of other animals, he finally found the sparrow's home in a bamboo grove.

The sparrow, despite its injury, welcomed the old man warmly. It introduced him to its family and entertained him with a grand feast and delightful sparrow dances. When it was time for the old man to leave, the sparrow offered him a choice of two baskets: a small, light one and a large, heavy one. Being humble and not wanting to impose, the old man chose the small, light basket.

Upon returning home, he opened the basket to find it filled with precious treasures, gold, and silver. The old man and his wife became wealthy and lived comfortably.

However, the greedy old woman, seeing their newfound riches, became consumed with envy. She demanded to know where the old man had gotten the treasures. When she heard about the sparrow's generosity, she decided to visit the sparrow herself, hoping to get even more treasure.

She found the sparrow's home and, despite her past cruelty, the sparrows still offered her hospitality. When it was time for her to leave, she was also presented with the choice of two baskets. Driven by her insatiable greed, she immediately chose the large, heavy basket, convinced it would contain even greater riches.

Struggling with the heavy basket, she rushed home. As soon as she opened it, instead of treasure, out poured horrifying creatures, snakes, and demons, that terrified her. Some versions of the tale say she was carried away by the creatures, or that she was so frightened she fell down a mountain to her demise.

The Moral of the Story:

The "Tongue-Cut Sparrow" teaches valuable lessons about:

 * Kindness and compassion: The old man's kindness to the sparrow is ultimately rewarded.

 * Greed and its consequences: The old woman's greed and cruelty lead to her downfall.

 * Karma: The idea that good deeds are repaid with good fortune, and bad deeds lead to negative outcomes.

It's a popular tale that has been passed down through generations in Japan, often told to children to instill these moral values.

A Russian Fairytale

THE TWELVE MONTHS 

🌨️ Once Upon a Time…

There was once a kind and beautiful girl named Marouckla. She lived with her cruel stepmother and her lazy stepsister, Holena. Marouckla did all the housework, fetched water, chopped wood, and cleaned the house while her stepmother and Holena relaxed, ordered her around, and treated her badly.

But no matter how unfairly she was treated, Marouckla stayed gentle, patient, and cheerful.

🌸 The Wish for Violets

One cold winter morning, Holena suddenly wanted something strange.

“I want violets! Pretty purple ones to put on my dress,” she said.

“But it’s the middle of January!” said Marouckla. “Violets only bloom in spring.”

But her stepmother shouted,

“Go to the forest and don’t come back without them!”

So, Marouckla, wrapped in a thin coat, walked through the snowy forest, cold and frightened.

🔥 A Circle of Warmth

After a long time, she saw a glow of fire on a mountaintop. Around the fire sat twelve tall men, each wearing a cloak of a different colour. These were not ordinary men—they were the Twelve Months, magical spirits who rule the seasons.

Great January, the oldest of them all, asked kindly,

“What are you doing out here, child?”

Marouckla bowed and said,

“My stepsister wants violets. I was told to bring them.”

Hearing her story and seeing her kind heart, Great January nodded.

“Brother March, lend us your time.”

March rose and waved his magic wand. The snow melted, grass appeared, and violets bloomed all around! Marouckla picked a bunch, thanked the Months warmly, and returned home.

🍓 Strawberries in the Snow

When Holena saw the violets, she was amazed—but not grateful. A few days later, she yelled:

“Now I want strawberries! Go and get them!”

Once again, Marouckla walked into the snowy forest and found the Twelve Months.

This time, Great January handed the magic wand to June. Instantly, the ground turned green, flowers bloomed, and sweet red strawberries grew everywhere. Marouckla picked them joyfully and hurried home.

🍎 Apples in the Blizzard

The next day, greedy Holena demanded:

“Now I want red apples!”

Though it was snowing heavily, the stepmother forced Marouckla out again.

Marouckla found the Twelve Months once more. Great January passed the magic wand to September, and soon a big apple tree appeared with shiny red apples.

Marouckla shook the tree. Two apples fell. She picked them, thanked the Months, and returned.

❄️ A Greedy Mistake

When Holena saw the apples, she was furious that there were only two. She and her mother rushed into the forest to find the apples themselves.

They found the fire and the Twelve Months, but instead of being polite, they were rude and demanding.

“Give us apples! And strawberries too!” they shouted.

The Months were angry. Great January raised his magic wand, and a wild snowstorm began. The wind howled and the snow fell thick. Holena and her mother were lost in the storm and never seen again.

🏡 A Happy Ending

Marouckla was now free from cruelty. She lived in peace and happiness, with the house and everything in it now hers.

In time, she met a kind young man who loved her for her gentle nature, and they lived happily ever after.

🌟 Moral of the Story

Kindness is always rewarded.

Greed and rudeness lead to trouble.

Respect nature’s time and seasons.

Be patient, humble, and thankful—just like Marouckla!

Mysterious Creatures

MERMAIDS 

Have you ever imagined what it would be like to live underwater? Well, for centuries, people all over the world have imagined amazing creatures called mermaids!

What are Mermaids?

Imagine a person, but instead of legs, they have a beautiful fish tail! That's a mermaid. They usually have the head and upper body of a human (most often a woman), and the lower body of a fish. Sometimes you might hear about mermen, who are the male version with a fish tail. Together, they are called merfolk.

Where Do Mermaid Stories Come From?

People have been telling stories about mermaids for a very, very long time. Even ancient Greeks and Romans had tales of creatures like them! You can find mermaid stories in almost every part of the world, from Europe to Asia, and even in parts of Africa.

Why do we have these stories?

 * The Mysterious Ocean: The sea is huge and full of secrets! People might have imagined magical beings living in its depths because they didn't know what was really down there.

 * Animals that Looked Like Mermaids? Some scientists think that sailors long ago might have seen animals like manatees or dugongs (which are gentle, slow-moving sea mammals). When seen from a distance, or in the fog, their tails and the way they hold their babies might have reminded people of a human-like creature.

What are Mermaids Like in Stories?

In different stories, mermaids can be very different!

 * Good Mermaids: Some stories say mermaids are kind and helpful. They might save sailors from shipwrecks, or even grant wishes! They are often shown as loving music and singing beautiful songs.

 * Tricky Mermaids: Other stories warn that mermaids can be dangerous. They might lure sailors with their beautiful voices, causing ships to crash.

 * Mermaids Who Love Humans: Many famous stories are about mermaids who fall in love with humans! Sometimes, to be with their human love, they have to leave the sea, which can be very difficult for them.

Famous Mermaids You Might Know!

The most famous mermaid story for many of us is Hans Christian Andersen's "The Little Mermaid." This is the story about Ariel from the Disney movie you might have seen! In this tale, a young mermaid longs to live on land and falls in love with a human prince.

Are Mermaids Real?

While mermaid stories are super fun and exciting, there is no scientific evidence that mermaids actually exist. They are mythical creatures, which means they are part of legends and folklore, like dragons or unicorns.

But even though they're not real, mermaids continue to spark our imaginations and make us wonder about the mysteries of the ocean! They remind us that there's always something amazing to discover, both in the real world and in our imaginations.

A Zen story

IN THE HANDS OF DESTINY

Nobunaga was a great Japanese warrior. Once when the enemy attacked him, he decided to take him on, though he had only a tenth of the soldiers the other man had. Nobunaga had the confidence that he would win nevertheless. However, his soldiers were hesitant and afraid. Rallying them together with words of encouragement, Nobunaga led his men to battle. On the way he stopped at a Shinto shrine. He gathered his men around and said:

"After I come out from the shrine I will toss a coin. If it shows head, we will win, if tail, we will lose. Let us see what destiny has in store for us."

Nobunaga entered the shrine and prayed silently. He came out and tossed coin. It was head! His soldiers were infused with so much courage, that they won the battle easily. 

"No one can change the hand of destiny," said Nobunaga's aide after the battle. 

"Indeed not," said Nobunaga. Then he fished out the coin. Two coins were stuck back-to-back. Both sides showed heads!

A story passed down through generations

THE LEGEND OF THE SEVEN DIVINE SIBLINGS OF GOA 

Long ago, when the earth was still untouched by modern civilisation and the forests of Goa were dense and sacred, seven divine siblings—seven sisters and one brother, according to popular folklore—descended upon the land. They were manifestations of divine power, each embodying a unique aspect of nature, spirit, and protection.

The Siblings Were:

1. Lairai – The fierce and fearless one

2. Kelbai – The protector of fertility and nature

3. Sateri – The serene guardian of balance

4. Mahamaya – The embodiment of cosmic wisdom

5. Morjai – The warrior guardian of the coastal lands

6. Mirabai (Milagres Saibinn) – The spiritual and compassionate sister

7. Ajadevi / Adiadipa – The mysterious and devoted sister who vanished

8. Khetoba / Betal (Brother) – The powerful guardian spirit

A Time of Unity

In their early days, the siblings lived together harmoniously in a forested region, offering blessings to those who respected the land and its spirits. They made a pact: they would each take a different corner of Goa to protect and nurture its people. But before they separated, a quarrel broke out—some say between Lairai and her brother Khetoba.

Lairai, strong-willed and radiant, wished to perform the Agnidivya—a sacred fire-walking ritual. Her brother and some sisters cautioned her against it, fearing it would consume her. But Lairai, resolute and brave, insisted. This disagreement caused emotional turmoil, and the siblings decided to part ways, each settling in different villages across Goa.

The Separation

Lairai chose Shirgao, nestled in the hills, where she could perform her fiery ritual and be close to devoted worshippers.

Kelbai moved to Mulgao, where she became a guardian of crops and children.

Sateri settled in Kavalem or Curdi, associated with tranquil power and household protection.

Mahamaya went to Mayem, embodying knowledge and spiritual insight.

Morjai took her place by the coast in Morjim, standing tall as a protector against invaders.

Mirabai, during Portuguese colonisation, was converted to Christianity and became Milagres Saibinn, choosing Mapusa as her home and blessing all who came to her, regardless of faith.

Ajadevi / Adiadipa, stricken by grief or duty, disappeared, believed to have committed sati (ritual self-immolation) and is no longer actively worshipped.

Khetoba, the brother, became the guardian deity of crossroads and cremation grounds, often worshipped as Betal.

A Lasting Bond

Though separated by time, space, and even religion, the bond between the sisters endured. Every year, during the feasts and festivals, ritual offerings are exchanged between their shrines:

During Lairai’s Zatra in Shirgao, jasmine flowers (mogrim) are sent from Milagres Saibinn’s church in Mapusa.

In return, coconut oil and candles are sent from Lairai’s temple to Milagres during her feast.

These gestures honour their eternal kinship and symbolise unity despite difference—a powerful lesson in Goa’s rich tradition of interfaith harmony.

There may be slight variations in this story. But this legend isn't just folklore. It’s a deep reflection of:

Goa’s cultural fabric, where Hindu and Christian beliefs intersect,

Divine femininity, in its many forms—fiery, gentle, protective, wise,

A message of unity beyond religious boundaries, rooted in shared heritage.

Chinese folktale

SHISYOKIN'S DREAM 

In China, a young man named Shisyokin had a dream in which a goddess appeared and told him that he would find a large amount of gold on the banks of the "Hwang Ho" river. 

The next day, despite waiting all day, Shisyokin found nothing. When the goddess appeared again in his dream, he went and waited again, but still found nothing. When he was about to leave, a vegetable seller there asked him why he had come. 

When Shisyokin narrated his dream, the seller laughed and said, "Do not believe in such things. In my dream, too, the goddess came and said that there is a large amount of gold under the tree in front of a house belonging to a man named Shisyokin." 

Shisyokin hurried back home and dug under the tree in front of his own house—the one mentioned in the vegetable seller's dream. And there, he found the gold!

The story comes full circle and teaches a beautiful lesson: sometimes, what you're searching for far and wide is actually right where you started—at home.

Heartwarming childhood story of Lord Rama and the Moon’s Reflection.

LITTLE RAMA AND THE ELUSIVE MOON 

One evening, Queen Kaushalya was sitting in the palace courtyard, cradling little Rama in her lap. The night sky was clear, and the full moon shone brightly. As Rama looked up, His little eyes twinkled with wonder.

Suddenly, He stretched out His tiny hands and said, “Mother, I want the moon!”

Kaushalya chuckled and said, “My dear child, the moon is far away. I cannot reach it.”

But little Rama insisted, pouting, “I want to play with it!”

Seeing His determination, Kaushalya thought for a moment and took Him to a large silver bowl filled with water. As she placed it before Him, the reflection of the moon appeared on the water’s surface.

“Look, Rama! The moon is now right in front of You,” she said, smiling.

Rama clapped His hands in delight and tried to catch it, but each time He touched the water, the moon’s reflection rippled and disappeared. He looked up at His mother, confused.

Kaushalya laughed gently and said, “The moon, like true happiness, cannot be captured by force. But if you remain patient, its light will always be with you.”

Little Rama listened carefully, storing this wisdom in His divine heart.

The Meaning of This Story: This sweet story teaches us that not everything in life can be grasped through force; some things, like joy and wisdom, must be experienced with patience and an open heart.

An inexhaustible vessel

AKSHAY PATRA (अक्षय पात्र) 

The term "Akshay Patra" (अक्षय पात्र) comes from Sanskrit:

Akshay (अक्षय) = Never-ending, inexhaustible, or eternal

Patra (पात्र) = Vessel, pot, or container

So, "Akshay Patra" means "an inexhaustible vessel"—a container that never runs out of food or sustenance. In the Mahabharata, it symbolised divine abundance and eternal provision, ensuring that the Pandavas never went hungry during their exile. Today, the term is often used metaphorically to represent limitless resources, generosity, or divine blessings.

The Story of Akshay Patra

During their exile in the forest, the Pandavas and Draupadi often faced difficulties in obtaining food. To help them, Surya Deva (the Sun God) gifted Yudhishthira a divine vessel called the Akshay Patra. This vessel had a magical property—it would provide an unlimited amount of food until Draupadi herself had eaten for the day.

With the help of this vessel, the Pandavas could feed themselves and any guests who came to visit them during their exile.

The Incident with Durvasa Muni

Once, the sage Durvasa and his disciples arrived at the Pandavas’ hermitage after Draupadi had already eaten for the day. Since the Akshay Patra would not produce any more food until the next day, Draupadi was worried, as Durvasa was known for his short temper and could curse them if not served properly.

Feeling helpless, Draupadi prayed to Lord Krishna for help. Krishna arrived and asked Draupadi to bring the Akshay Patra. When she showed it to him, he found a single grain of rice stuck to it. He ate that grain, and miraculously, it satisfied the hunger of Durvasa and all his disciples.

When Durvasa and his followers felt full, they left without returning to the hermitage, thus saving the Pandavas from their wrath.

Symbolism of Akshaya Patra

The Akshay Patra represents abundance, divine grace, and sustenance. It is a reminder that faith in God and righteousness will always bring solutions to even the most difficult problems.