A Timeless Treasure in the Digital Age

THE FOUNTAIN PEN 

"The pen is mightier than the sword." – Edward Bulwer-Lytton

In today's digital world, where most messages are typed on keyboards or tapped on mobile screens, the simple act of writing with a fountain pen has become increasingly rare. Yet, for millions of people around the world, the fountain pen is more than just a writing instrument—it is a symbol of elegance, creativity, and the timeless beauty of handwriting.

Every stroke of a fountain pen reflects patience, care, and personality. It reminds us that while technology has made communication faster, it cannot replace the warmth and charm of handwritten words.

WHAT IS A FOUNTAIN PEN?

A fountain pen is a writing instrument that uses liquid ink stored in a cartridge, converter, or refillable reservoir. The ink flows smoothly to a metal nib through capillary action, allowing the writer to write with very little pressure.

Unlike ballpoint pens, fountain pens glide effortlessly across the paper, making writing more comfortable and enjoyable.

A JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY 

The story of writing instruments began thousands of years ago. Ancient civilisations wrote on stone tablets, clay tablets, and papyrus scrolls. Later, people used quill pens, usually made from goose feathers. Since the feather tips wore out quickly, they had to be constantly trimmed to create a fine nib before being dipped into ink.

The first fountain pens came into existence as early as 1636, although they were not always reliable. A major breakthrough came in 1884, when Lewis Edson Waterman invented a practical fountain pen with a dependable ink-feed system. His invention transformed writing and made fountain pens popular across the world.

CELEBRATING FOUNTAIN PEN DAY 

Since 2012, fountain pen lovers around the world have celebrated Fountain Pen Day on the first Friday of November. The day encourages people to rediscover the joy of writing with fountain pens and helps revive the beautiful art of handwriting and handwritten letters.

People celebrate the day by:

●Buying or gifting a fountain pen.

●Writing handwritten letters to friends and family.

●Practising calligraphy.

●Sharing photographs of their handwritten messages on social media.

The celebration reminds us that even in the digital age, handwritten words continue to have a special place in our hearts.

THE BEAUTY OF HANDWRITING 

There was once a time when beautifully written letters, colourful inks, and elegant calligraphy were part of everyday life. Handwritten letters carried emotions that typed messages often cannot express.

Today, these traditions are slowly disappearing. Many experts believe that the excessive use of digital devices has negatively affected handwriting skills among both children and adults. As people rely more on keyboards and touchscreens, fewer take the time to write by hand.

Using a fountain pen encourages slower, more thoughtful writing and helps improve handwriting, concentration, and creativity.

WHY PEOPLE STILL LOVE FOUNTAIN PENS 

Even today, fountain pens remain popular because they:

●Provide a smooth and comfortable writing experience.

●Improve handwriting by encouraging better control.

●Can be refilled and reused, making them environmentally friendly.

●Add elegance to signatures and important documents.

●Become treasured possessions that can last for generations.

Many writers, artists, teachers, judges, and collectors still prefer fountain pens for their unique writing experience.

WRITING THROUGH THE AGES 

Human writing has travelled an incredible journey—from stone tablets and papyrus scrolls to goose-feather quills, fountain pens, typewriters, computers, and smartphones.

Perhaps the most astonishing example of this progress can be seen at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem, where the world's smallest Bible is displayed. Created by scientists at the Technion Institute, the entire Bible has been engraved on a tiny gold-coated nanochip no bigger than a grain of sugar. The text can only be read under a microscope that magnifies it 10,000 times.

This remarkable achievement shows just how far writing technology has evolved over the centuries.

WILL FOUNTAIN PENS DISAPPEAR?

Some experts believe that fountain pens may one day become as uncommon as feather quills. However, fountain pen enthusiasts around the world are determined to keep this beautiful tradition alive.

For many people, writing with a fountain pen is not simply about putting words on paper—it is about slowing down, expressing thoughts carefully, and enjoying the art of writing.

CONCLUSION 

Technology has undoubtedly changed the way we communicate, but it should not replace the joy of handwriting. A handwritten note, birthday card, or thank-you letter carries a warmth that no text message can match.

So the next time you feel inspired, pick up a fountain pen, fill it with your favourite coloured ink, and let your thoughts flow onto paper. You may discover that writing by hand is not just a skill—it is an art worth preserving.

INTERESTING FACTS 

✒️ Fountain pens first came into existence in 1636.

🪶 Before fountain pens, people wrote with goose-feather quills that had to be repeatedly trimmed and dipped in ink.

🗓️ Fountain Pen Day has been celebrated since 2012 on the first Friday of November.

💌 One of the best ways to celebrate Fountain Pen Day is by writing a handwritten letter or gifting someone a fountain pen.

🖋️ Many calligraphy artists still prefer fountain pens because of their smooth ink flow.

📖 The world's smallest Bible, engraved on a nanochip the size of a grain of sugar, is displayed at the Israel Museum, Jerusalem.

🌍 Writing has evolved from stone tablets and papyrus scrolls to nanochips, yet the beauty of handwritten words continues to inspire people across the world.

"Handwriting is the painting of the voice." – Voltaire

What We Can Learn from the Discipline and Manners of the Japanese People

THE JAPANESE WAY OF LIFE: DISCIPLINE, RESPECT, AND RESPONSIBILITY 

"Discipline is the bridge between goals and achievements." – Jim Rohn

When people around the world think of Japan, they often imagine advanced technology, bullet trains, and beautiful cherry blossoms. But one of Japan's greatest strengths is something even more valuable—the discipline and good manners of its people.

The Japanese are admired not only for what they have built but also for how they behave in their everyday lives. Their habits show that a strong nation is built on respect, responsibility, and self-discipline.

PUNCTUALITY IS A WAY OF LIFE 

In Japan, being on time is considered a sign of respect. Whether it is for school, work, or a meeting with friends, people make every effort to arrive on time. Trains are so punctual that even a delay of a minute may be announced with an apology.

This teaches us that respecting other people's time is just as important as valuing our own.

CLEANLINESS BEGINS WITH YOURSELF 

One of the most surprising things about Japan is the cleanliness of its streets, even though public dustbins are rare. People usually carry their own rubbish home instead of throwing it on the road.

In many Japanese schools, students clean their own classrooms, corridors, and even toilets. This practice helps them understand that cleanliness is everyone's responsibility, not just the job of cleaners.

RESPECT IS PART OF DAILY LIFE 

The Japanese greet each other by bowing. The depth of the bow depends on the level of respect being shown. They are polite in speech, patient while listening, and careful not to disturb others.

On trains and buses, people usually speak softly or remain silent so they do not disturb fellow passengers. Mobile phones are often kept on silent mode.

ORDERLY BEHAVIOUR 

Have you ever seen long queues in Japan? People patiently wait for their turn without pushing or jumping the line. Even during busy festivals or emergencies, they remain calm and organised.

This behaviour became famous after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Instead of panicking, people stood in orderly lines, shared resources, and helped one another.

CHILDREN LEARN RESPONSIBILITY EARLY 

Japanese children are encouraged to become independent from a young age. Many walk to school in groups, serve lunch to classmates, clean classrooms, and return things they find to their rightful owners.

These small responsibilities help them grow into responsible and trustworthy adults.

HONESTY IS HIGHLY VALUED 

Japan is known for its honesty. Lost wallets, mobile phones, and other valuables are often handed over to the police or returned to their owners. This culture of honesty creates trust among people and makes society safer.

TEAMWORK OVER INDIVIDUAL GLORY 

The Japanese believe that the success of the group is more important than individual recognition. Whether in schools, offices, or sports, people work together, cooperate, and support each other instead of seeking personal praise.

RESPECT FOR NATURE AND PUBLIC PROPERTY 

The Japanese take great care of parks, gardens, roads, and public buildings. They understand that public property belongs to everyone and should be protected for future generations.

During festivals, people often clean the area before leaving, making it look as if no event had taken place.

WHAT CAN WE LEARN?

We do not have to live in Japan to learn from these habits. We can begin by:

●Being punctual.

●Keeping our surroundings clean.

●Respecting teachers, parents, and elders.

●Waiting patiently in queues.

●Speaking politely.

●Being honest.

●Taking responsibility for our actions.

●Caring for public property.

Small habits practised every day can make a big difference in our lives and in our country.

CONCLUSION 

Japan reminds us that discipline is not about strict rules or fear of punishment. It is about doing the right thing even when no one is watching. Good manners, honesty, cleanliness, and respect are simple habits, but together they create a peaceful, efficient, and prosperous society.

If each one of us adopts even a few of these qualities, we can help build a better school, a better community, and a better nation.

DID YOU KNOW?

🇯🇵 Japanese students spend a few minutes each day cleaning their classrooms and school premises.

🚅 Japan's Shinkansen (bullet trains) are among the most punctual in the world, with average delays often measured in seconds.

♻️ Many Japanese people carry their rubbish home because public bins are limited.

💴 Lost wallets are frequently returned with the money still inside, reflecting the country's strong culture of honesty.

🌸 During the cherry blossom season, people enjoy picnics in parks but make sure the area is spotless before they leave.

MESSAGE: Discipline is not about being forced to do the right thing. It is about choosing to do the right thing every single day.

The Anganwadi Cook Who Gave Her Life to Save Children

KANCHAN BAI MEGHWAL 

"The greatest heroes are often ordinary people who choose courage over fear."

Some heroes wear uniforms. Others quietly go about their daily work, never expecting to be remembered. Kanchan Bai Meghwal, an Anganwadi cook from Ranpur village in Madhya Pradesh's Neemuch district, belonged to the second kind. She lived a simple life, but her final act of courage made her a true heroine.

On 2 February 2026, what began as an ordinary day at the Anganwadi Centre soon turned into a nightmare. Kanchan Bai was preparing the midday meal for the children when disaster struck.

A SUDDEN DANGER 

Near the school stood a large beehive that had long been a cause for concern among villagers. Although complaints had reportedly been made about the danger it posed, the hive remained untouched.

That day, the hive was disturbed, and within moments thousands of bees swarmed toward the playground where young children were happily playing. The peaceful atmosphere turned into chaos as frightened children screamed and ran in every direction, trying to escape the attack.

A MOTHER'S COURAGE 

The cries of the children reached Kanchan Bai as she worked in the kitchen. Without pausing to think about her own safety, she rushed outside.

Using tarpaulins, mats, and even her own body as a shield, she gathered the terrified children and guided them into a safe room. She stood between the children and the attacking bees, protecting them until every child was safe.

In doing so, Kanchan Bai received hundreds of bee stings. She continued helping the children despite the intense pain and refused to leave until the last child had been rescued.

Soon after, she collapsed from the severe attack.

She was rushed to a nearby hospital, but doctors could not save her.

A LIFE OF SIMPLICITY AND SERVICE 

Kanchan Bai came from a financially struggling family. Her husband was paralysed, and she was the main earning member of the household. Despite receiving only a modest honorarium as an Anganwadi cook, she carried out her responsibilities with dedication and care.

Those who knew her remembered her as a kind-hearted and hardworking woman who treated the children at the Anganwadi like her own.

A SACRIFICE THAT SAVED MANY LIVES 

Kanchan Bai's extraordinary bravery is believed to have saved the lives of nearly 20 children. Had she not acted so quickly, the bee attack could have resulted in a far greater tragedy.

Her actions remind us that true courage is not the absence of fear but the willingness to protect others despite the danger.

LESSONS WE CAN LEARN 

Kanchan Bai Meghwal's life teaches us several valuable lessons:

●Selflessness – She placed the safety of children above her own life.

●Courage – She faced overwhelming danger without hesitation.

●Responsibility – She fulfilled her duty with complete dedication.

●Compassion – She treated every child as if they were her own.

AN UNSUNG HERO 

Many people become famous through wealth, power, or achievements. Kanchan Bai became unforgettable because of her humanity. She was not a soldier, a police officer, or a celebrity. She was an Anganwadi cook who chose to save children, knowing the risks.

Her story reminds us that heroes can be found in classrooms, kitchens, villages, and every corner of society. Their courage may not always make headlines around the world, but it leaves an everlasting mark on the lives they touch.

Kanchan Bai Meghwal's sacrifice will forever stand as a shining example of love, duty, and courage. She gave the greatest gift anyone can give—the gift of life to others. Though she is no longer with us, her heroic act will continue to inspire generations.

DID YOU KNOW?

●Anganwadi Centres are part of India's Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) programme and provide nutrition, preschool education, and healthcare support to young children and mothers.

●Kanchan Bai Meghwal sacrificed her life while rescuing nearly 20 children from a massive bee attack.

●Her courage has been widely praised as an inspiring example of selfless service and maternal love.

●Her story reminds us that true heroes are often ordinary people performing extraordinary acts in moments of crisis.

QUOTE TO REMEMBER 

"Courage is not measured by how long we live, but by what we are willing to risk for the lives of others."

How Small Habits Can Shape Your Future

THE 7 STAGES OF LAZINESS 

Have you ever said, "I'll do my homework later," only to realise that later never came?

Most people think laziness is something we are born with. But psychologists believe that laziness is usually a habit that develops over time. It doesn't appear suddenly. It grows little by little through small choices, repeated excuses, and delayed actions.

The good news is that if laziness is a habit, it can also be replaced with better habits. Let's understand the seven stages of laziness and learn how to overcome them.

STAGE 1: "I'll Do It Later"

Every journey toward laziness begins with a simple sentence:

"I'll do it later."

You decide to finish your homework after watching one video, start studying tomorrow, or begin exercising next week.

It feels harmless because you haven't refused to do the work—you've only postponed it.

However, every time you delay an important task, your brain feels relieved because it has escaped something difficult. Gradually, your brain starts preferring short-term comfort over long-term success.

How to escape:

Follow the "2-Minute Rule." If a task takes only two minutes to begin, start it immediately. Often, getting started is the hardest part.

STAGE 2: Fake Productivity

Now you want to be productive, but instead of doing the actual work, you keep yourself busy with easier tasks.

For example:

●Arranging your study table.

●Buying new stationery.

●Making colourful timetables.

●Watching videos about studying.

●Planning instead of studying.

These activities may feel useful, but they don't help you complete your work.

Remember:

Being busy is not the same as being productive.

How to escape:

After planning for a few minutes, begin your most important task immediately.

STAGE 3: Dopamine Addiction

Our brains naturally enjoy rewards.

Every notification, video, game, or social media post gives the brain a small burst of a chemical called dopamine, often known as the "feel-good chemical."

The Science Behind It

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter—a chemical messenger that helps brain cells communicate. It is released when we experience something enjoyable or achieve a goal. It motivates us to repeat activities that feel rewarding.

The problem is that mobile phones, video games, and social media provide instant dopamine. Studying, practising music, reading, or exercising also release dopamine—but only after effort and patience.

If we constantly choose instant rewards, our brain slowly loses interest in activities that require hard work.

How to escape:

●Keep your phone away while studying.

●Turn off unnecessary notifications.

●Give yourself a short break only after completing a task.

STAGE 4: The Guilt Loop

At this stage, laziness is no longer enjoyable.

You know you should be studying, but you keep avoiding it.

Soon you begin feeling guilty.

The guilt creates stress.

Stress makes you look for comfort.

Comfort leads back to your phone, television, or bed.

Then the cycle repeats.

This is called the guilt loop.

How to escape:

Forgive yourself for wasting time and simply begin again. One small action can break the cycle.

STAGE 5: Identity Collapse

This is the most dangerous stage.

Instead of saying,

"I'm being lazy today,"

you begin saying,

"I am lazy."

These two sentences sound similar, but they are very different.

The first describes today's behaviour.

The second becomes part of your identity.

When students believe they are lazy, they stop expecting success from themselves.

Always remember:

You are not your habits. Habits can be changed.

How to escape:

Replace negative thoughts with positive ones.

Instead of saying: "I can't do this."

Say: "I'm learning to become more disciplined."

STAGE 6: Watching Others Succeed

Now you notice your classmates achieving good marks, winning competitions, learning new skills, or reaching their goals.

You may not feel jealous.

Instead, you wonder,

"What if I had started earlier?"

This feeling is called regret.

As American author Jim Rohn wisely said,

"We must all suffer one of two things: the pain of discipline or the pain of regret."

The effort of studying lasts for a few hours.

The regret of not trying can remain for many years.

How to escape:

Do not compare yourself with others. Compare yourself with who you were yesterday.

STAGE 7: The Escape

This is where everything can change.

You do not overcome laziness by waiting to feel motivated.

Motivation comes and goes.

Successful people depend on good habits instead of motivation.

Start with very small actions.

Read one page.

Solve one maths problem.

Learn one new word.

Walk for five minutes.

Practise one musical exercise.

Small actions become habits.

Habits become character.

Character shapes your future.

Remember:

Action creates motivation—not the other way around.

Practical Tips to Beat Laziness

Make a daily timetable and follow it.

Break large tasks into smaller steps.

Keep your study area neat and free from distractions.

Put your mobile phone away while studying.

Sleep for at least 8 hours every night.

Exercise or play outdoor games regularly.

Reward yourself after completing important tasks.

Celebrate small improvements instead of waiting for perfection.

Did You Know?

🌟 Your brain loves rewards!

Every time you complete a task, your brain releases dopamine, making you feel happy and encouraging you to repeat the behaviour. That's why finishing your homework often feels satisfying.

🌟 Habits become automatic.

Scientists estimate that nearly 40–45% of our daily actions are habits rather than conscious decisions. Good habits make success easier, while bad habits can slowly hold us back.

🌟 Your brain can change.

Thanks to a remarkable ability called neuroplasticity, your brain can build new connections throughout your life. This means you can replace unhealthy habits with better ones through regular practice.

🌟 Success begins with small steps.

Many famous athletes, scientists, musicians, and leaders achieved greatness not because they were always motivated, but because they showed up consistently—even on days when they didn't feel like it.

CONCLUSION 

Laziness does not usually steal your dreams in one day. It quietly takes away a few minutes today, a few hours tomorrow, and eventually weeks, months, or even years.

Fortunately, the opposite is also true.

A single good decision today can begin a chain of positive habits that changes your future.

So ask yourself:

Which stage are you in today?

Then take one small step forward.

Because every great achievement begins with the courage to start.

Do you know

WHAT IS THE SEMI-CIRCLE OUTSIDE THE PENALTY BOX FOR?

If you have ever watched a football (soccer) match carefully, you may have noticed a semi-circle, often called the "D", just outside the penalty area. Many people assume it is part of the penalty box, but surprisingly, it is not. This simple marking has one very important purpose.

THE PENALTY ARC 

The semi-circle is officially known as the penalty arc. It is drawn with the penalty spot as its centre and has a radius of 10 yards (9.15 metres). The arc lies outside the penalty area and is used only during a penalty kick.

WHY IS IT NEEDED?

According to the Laws of the Game, when a penalty kick is taken:

Only the goalkeeper and the player taking the penalty are allowed inside the penalty area.

All other players must remain at least 10 yards (9.15 metres) away from the penalty spot until the ball is kicked.

The penalty area itself is not enough to ensure this distance. The front edge of the penalty area is less than 10 yards from the penalty spot. Therefore, the penalty arc marks the portion of the 10-yard circle that extends beyond the penalty area. It helps players stand at the correct distance and ensures that no one gains an unfair advantage.

IS IT USED DURING NORMAL PLAY?

No. During the rest of the match, the penalty arc has no special role. Players can run through it freely, and it does not act as a boundary. Its purpose comes into play only when a penalty kick is being taken.

A CLEVER PIECE OF DESIGN 

Although the penalty arc may be used for only a few seconds in an entire match—and some matches never even have a penalty—it is an essential part of every football pitch. It ensures that the rules are followed fairly and consistently across the world.

DID YOU KNOW?

●The penalty arc is popularly known as the "D" because of its shape.

●It is not part of the penalty area, even though it touches it.

●Players may enter the penalty arc immediately after the penalty kick has been taken.

●Every line and marking on a football pitch has a specific purpose, and the penalty arc is one of the best examples of how even the smallest details help keep the game fair.

The next time you watch a football match, take a closer look at the "D" outside the penalty box. It may seem like an ordinary line, but it plays an important role in ensuring that every penalty kick is taken according to the rules.

The Father of Electricity

MICHAEL FARADAY 

 

"Nothing is too wonderful to be true if it be consistent with the laws of nature." — Michael Faraday

Michael Faraday was one of the greatest scientists in history. His discoveries changed the world and laid the foundation for the modern use of electricity. Although he had very little formal education, his curiosity, determination, and love for science made him one of the most influential physicists and chemists of all time.

EARLY LIFE 

Michael Faraday was born on September 22, 1791, in Newington Butts, London, England. He came from a poor family, and his father was a blacksmith. Since his family could not afford a good education, Faraday attended school only for a few years.

At the age of 14, he started working as an apprentice to a bookbinder. While binding books, he spent every spare moment reading them. Books on science fascinated him the most. He carefully studied works on electricity, chemistry, and physics, teaching himself through reading and experiments.

THE BEGINNING OF HIS SCIENTIFIC CAREER 

Faraday's life changed when he attended lectures by the famous scientist Humphry Davy at the Royal Institution in London. He took detailed notes and sent them to Davy, who was impressed by the young man's enthusiasm.

In 1813, Davy hired Faraday as his laboratory assistant. This opportunity allowed Faraday to learn from leading scientists and perform experiments that would later revolutionise science.

GREATEST DISCOVERIES 

●Electromagnetic Induction

Faraday's most important discovery came in 1831, when he discovered electromagnetic induction. He proved that moving a magnet through a coil of wire could produce an electric current.

This discovery led to the invention of:

•Electric generators

•Transformers

•Electric motors

Today, almost every power station in the world uses the principle discovered by Faraday.

●The Electric Motor

Faraday also built one of the world's first electric motors. It demonstrated that electricity could be converted into motion. Modern electric vehicles, fans, washing machines, and countless other devices operate on this basic principle.

●Faraday Cage

Faraday invented the Faraday Cage, an enclosure made of conducting material that blocks external electric fields. This principle is used today to protect sensitive electronic equipment and even aircraft during lightning strikes.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO CHEMISTRY 

Faraday was also an outstanding chemist. His achievements include:

●Discovering benzene, an important chemical used in many industries.

●Liquefying several gases that were once believed impossible to turn into liquids.

●Introducing scientific terms such as electrode, anode, cathode, and ion, which are still widely used today.

A HUMBLE SCIENTIST 

Despite becoming world-famous, Faraday remained humble throughout his life. He never sought wealth or power. He even declined a knighthood because he preferred to be known simply as a scientist.

Faraday believed that science should be shared with everyone. He delivered many public lectures, especially the famous Christmas Lectures, inspiring thousands of children to love science.

HONOURS 

Faraday received many honours during his lifetime. His name lives on through:

●The farad (F), the SI unit of electrical capacitance.

●Numerous universities, laboratories, and institutions named after him.

●His portrait appearing on British currency in the past.

DID YOU KNOW?

●Michael Faraday had very little formal education but became one of history's greatest scientists.

●He discovered electromagnetic induction without using advanced modern equipment.

●He kept detailed laboratory notebooks throughout his career.

●Albert Einstein greatly admired Faraday and kept Faraday's photograph in his study alongside those of Isaac Newton and James Clerk Maxwell.

●The world's electrical power systems are based on principles discovered by Faraday nearly 200 years ago.

CONCLUSION 

Michael Faraday proved that determination and curiosity can overcome the lack of formal education. His discoveries transformed the world and continue to power our homes, industries, hospitals, and communication systems. Every time we switch on a light, use an electric fan, charge a mobile phone, or travel in an electric train, we benefit from the remarkable work of Michael Faraday.

"The important thing is to know how to take all things quietly." — Michael Faraday

Story from Panchatantra

THE MONKEY AND THE CROCODILE 

Once upon a time, a monkey lived on a jamun tree beside a river. In the same river lived a huge crocodile. As time passed, the monkey and the crocodile became close friends. Every day, the monkey plucked sweet jamun fruits from the tree and shared them with the crocodile.

One day, the crocodile took some of the fruits home and offered them to his wife.

"These are from my friend," he said. "He gives me these delicious fruits every day."

The crocodile's wife tasted the fruits and was delighted by their sweetness. But soon, greed took hold of her. She said, "If these fruits are so sweet, just imagine how sweet the monkey's heart must be after eating them every day. I want his heart, no matter what."

The crocodile was shocked by her cruel wish, but she insisted until he reluctantly agreed.

The next day, the crocodile went to the monkey and said, "Brother Monkey, my wife has heard so much about you. She wishes to meet you and has invited you to our home for a grand feast."

Trusting his friend completely, the monkey happily jumped onto the crocodile's back, and together they began crossing the river.

When they reached the middle of the river, the crocodile could no longer hide the truth. "Forgive me, my friend," he confessed. "The real reason I brought you here is that my wife wants to eat your heart."

The monkey was terrified, but he remained calm and quickly thought of a plan.

He laughed and said, "Brother, if that is all, you should have told me earlier. I always leave my heart hanging safely on my jamun tree. Since I have such a brave friend as you, I don't need to carry it with me all the time. Let us return so I can fetch it."

The foolish crocodile believed every word and immediately turned back.

As soon as they reached the riverbank, the monkey sprang off the crocodile's back and climbed high into the branches of the jamun tree. Looking down, he called out, "You deceiver! I trusted you as my friend, but you betrayed that trust. How can anyone live without a heart? You have lost both a friend and my respect."

The crocodile hung his head in shame. Realising his foolishness, he quietly swam away, never to return.

MORAL: True friendship is built on trust and loyalty. Intelligence and presence of mind can save us from even the greatest danger, but we must also learn to be cautious, for blind trust in the wrong person can lead to betrayal.

RELEVANCE OF THE STORY IN OUR LIVES 

Although The Monkey and the Crocodile was written centuries ago, its message remains just as meaningful today. In our daily lives, we meet many people—at school, at work, in our neighbourhood, and even online. While most people are honest and kind, not everyone has good intentions. Some may pretend to be our friends only to take advantage of us for their own benefit.

The monkey trusted the crocodile because he had always treated him with kindness. However, when the crocodile allowed greed to overcome friendship, he betrayed that trust. This reminds us that trust is precious and should be placed wisely. At the same time, the monkey teaches us another valuable lesson: when faced with danger or betrayal, we should not panic. Calm thinking, presence of mind, and intelligence often help us find solutions to difficult situations.

The story also warns us against greed. The crocodile's wife allowed her selfish desire to cloud her judgment, and in the end, the crocodile lost a true friend because of it. Greed and dishonesty may promise temporary gain, but they often result in lasting loss.

In today's world, where people interact both in person and through social media, this story encourages us to be kind but cautious, trusting but wise. It reminds us to value genuine friendships, stay alert to deception, and use our intelligence to overcome life's challenges.