Inspiration from Tamil Siruvarmalar.com Some stories are originals by V. Krishnaraj, and may name is appended to them. Last update August 23, 2020 |
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Apologues |
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We have the DNA of animals in our body. Trees and animals preceded us by
millions and millions of years. We are the latecomers on the earth. Did
you know we have in our body mouse and cow genes. Our heredity and
ancestry are from animals. Australopithecus afarensis ("Lucy"), 3.2
million years ago, was our immediate ancestor. We have her DNA in our
body and belong to the genus: Homo. We humans have all the animal
qualities, some good and some bad. Our qualities, modified by our large
brain and sophisticated thinking, kept the best of animal qualites: Love
for the young, defending the young, feeling sad for loss of life and
much more. We do retain bad qualities of animals: wanton killing,
usurpation, and others. Be kind to animals. They help us. Take the dog. It serves man in several ways: Seeing Eye dog, Police and Military Dogs, Herding, Compahionship, Service Dog, Sledding, Performing Dogs and more. |
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Kuntidevi & Bhima Published:10 Aug 2020 8 PMUpdated:10 Aug 2020 8 PM K. Nirupama, Bangalore. சக்தி விகடன் டீம் Sakthi Vikatan Team A fair day's wages for a fair day's work. --Thomas Carlyle |
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1. Kunti Devi, instructing on the Dharma
principle, was virtuous in real life and earned her rightful place in
Mahabharata.
2. The Pandavas escaped from the burning wax mansion and reached Ēka
Chakra Nagar. They stayed in a poor Brahmin's house and felt very hungry
and felt the need to work for wages to alleviate their hunger.
3. Bhīma, known for his extraordinary physical strength, thought of
venturing out to earn a living for himself and his family. Asking his mother and his brothers to rest after the fire ordeal, left home to earn money. |
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4. He reached a rich man's mansion and asked for a job. The man told him
that 50 wage earners would take a day to dig a well in the garden, and
he could earn their entire salary if he of the fabulous physique could
dig the well all by himself.
He said, "Look here. What do you think of my proposal."
5. Desiring to earn wages equal to 50 men, worked all day with no rest,
and dug up a well gushing with water in one day. The rich man was
pleased, gave him wages meant for 50 men, and sent Bhīma on his way.
6. With hands full of money, Bhīma went home and happily gave his mother
all the money. Kuntidevi asked him how he got all the money he gave her.
Bhīma explained to her what happened.
7. Hearing the story, Kuntidevi became angry and said to him, "Bhīmā!
You may be the strongest man around here. But you do not have the right
to deprive the wages of the 49 people. I will take the wages equal to
one person. You must return the rest to the rich man."
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Don't doubt the truth. Don't be greedy. Published: 22 Sep 2020 2 AM Updated:22 Sep 2020 2 AM By Sakthi Vikatan Team |
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1. A rustle and thunderous romping attracted the attention of the
farmhand. He ran to the source of the ruckus. He saw a humongous bull
grazing on the corn.
2. In his desire to catch the bull, he leaped
towards the bull but could only catch its tail. He held on to it fast as
the bull took off to the skies.
3. He realized this was no ordinary bull but
Śiva's Nandi. The Nandi zoomed towards Kailas, and our hero was the
accidental traveler by the tail to Kailas. Both reached Kailas. Both
landed before Śiva. Immediately, the farmhand complained to Śiva, "O my
Lord, is this justice? Your Nandi destroyed the cornfield."
4. Śiva: "Don't worry. To make up for your
loss, take this bag chock-full of gold coins." The farmhand thanked the
Lord and accepted the bag with humility and reverence.
Nandhi flew him back to his cornfield.
5. He went home and doubted the authenticity
of the gold coins. He took one coin to his friend's jewelry shop. He
asked his friend, "Would you please rub this coin on the touchstone?"
His friend rubbed the gold coin on the stone.
6. The friend thought its real worth was
beyond belief but cheated him and said, "This is mere copper. Who
cheated you?" The farmhand narrated the incident.
7. That night, the bull came to the field. He
decided to challenge Śiva for what he believed as copper coins. He
decided to make the second trip to Kailas by hanging on to the flying
bull by its tail. But he felt a drag at his feet, and someone else was
holding on to his feet. The
farmhand looked down, and it was the jeweler holding on to his feet.
8.
Greed enveloped the lying, cheating, and conniving jeweler
claiming as his friend.
9. The jeweler asked the farmhand, "Who gave
all these gold coins?"
10. The tail-hanging farmhand spread his
hands wide to show the size of the bag of coins he received. Both fell
to the cornfield.
11. What is the lesson in this story?
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A transfixed Monkey By. Veeraswamy Krishnaraj Oct 18, 2020. Revised May 21, 2023 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The
dense forest teemed with an exhilarating array of wildlife: majestic
lions prowled the undergrowth, stealthy tigers lurked in the shadows,
and vibrant birds filled the air with their melodic songs. Among them
all, three spirited troops of monkeys swung from tree to tree, their
mischievous antics adding a playful energy to the vibrant ecosystem. |
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Bear-Man-Tiger August 23, 2020. Revised May 21, 2023 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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In the heart of a nearby forest, Veeramani, a skilled coconut tree climber, ventured deep into the wilderness in search of twigs for firewood. Within this untamed realm, a myriad of formidable creatures roamed freely—tigers, bears, and lions prowled with a predatory hunger. Feral cows, sheep, and goats grazed plentifully, providing a tempting feast for the carnivorous inhabitants. Suddenly, Veeramani found himself trapped in the gaze of a ravenous tiger, driven by an insatiable desire to feast upon a human. The predator crouched, poised to give chase, and in that moment, Veeramani's survival instincts surged within him. Swiftly, he scaled a towering tree, his expertise as a climber enabling him to ascend with remarkable agility. Yet, unbeknownst to him, nestled upon the sturdy branches above him, a black bear stood guard over her adorable cubs. The startled cubs emitted tiny squeals upon spotting Veeramani inching closer, much to the dismay of their protective mother. Addressing him with a stern yet concerned tone, the mother bear admonished, "Hey, man! What do you think you're doing? You're frightening my precious cubs. Either descend from the tree or jump to the next one." Veeramani, trembling with fear, responded, "There's a tiger lurking beneath this tree, ready to pounce and devour me. May I please stay here until the tiger retreats?" Surprisingly, the tiger initiated a conversation with the bear, Shyamala. "Ah, Shyamala! We are familiar faces in these parts. Engaging in a battle with this man on the tree would jeopardize the safety of your cubs. If you confront him, they might tumble down and suffer grave consequences. Instead, intimidate him with a fearsome display of your jaws, bared teeth, and menacing growls. That will surely break his resolve, causing him to lose his grip and plummet. Then, I can savor him for my lunch." Shyamala, the bear, countered, "Veeramani poses no harm to my cubs. He is fleeing from you. I have never harmed a human, and my cubs are safe as they are." Speaking in hushed tones, Veeramani approached Shyamala and proposed a plan. "Please ask the tiger to bring you a large beehive brimming with honey and place it at the base of this tree. Convince him that you will deliver me to him once the beehive is in position. This ingenious scheme will not cost you anything, for you see, I mean no harm." Shyamala contemplated the proposition, carefully weighing the potential consequences. Ultimately, she decided against the plan, as it entailed a covert means of dispatching Vyagra, the tiger. The notion of honeybees infiltrating the tiger's orifices, inflicting agony upon his nose and eyes, did not align with her principles. Meanwhile, a massive herd of thirty buffalos, accompanied by their vulnerable calves, ambled towards a nearby lake in search of refreshment. Catching sight of the famished tiger, the herd swiftly mobilized, huddling protectively around their offspring, creating an impenetrable shield. A single tiger stood no chance against the united might of an entire herd. The mighty bulls charged at the tiger, forcing it to flee in a heartbeat, disappearing into the dense forest with the thunderous hooves of the buffalos in pursuit. With a sigh of profound relief, Veeramani expressed his gratitude to the compassionate mother bear for refraining from attacking him. Hastily, Veeramani made his way out of the forest, his heart filled with a mixture of awe and gratitude. The turn of events had been nothing short of miraculous, sparing the lives of all involved. The timely appearance of the buffalo herd had been a true godsend, effectively diverting the tiger's attention and ensuring everyone's safety. As Veeramani emerged from the depths of the forest, he couldn't help but marvel at the wonders of nature and the intricate web of interconnectedness that governed its inhabitants. The encounter with the tiger, the bear, and the buffalo herd had left an indelible mark on his soul, forever reminding him of the fragility and resilience of life. Upon returning to his village, Veeramani shared his astonishing tale, captivating his neighbors with the thrilling narrative. News of his extraordinary escape spread like wildfire, and soon the entire community marveled at his courage and the extraordinary circumstances that had unfolded within the forest's embrace. Veeramani's story became a legend, passed down through generations, serving as a testament to the delicate balance of the natural world and the incredible power of unexpected alliances. It taught the villagers the importance of respecting and coexisting with the creatures that shared their environment. In the years that followed, Veeramani's harrowing experience served as a source of inspiration for many. It prompted individuals to contemplate the intricate relationships between humans and wildlife, urging them to consider the consequences of their actions and the potential for cooperation and understanding. As for Veeramani himself, the encounter transformed him. He developed a deep reverence for nature and became an advocate for the preservation of the forest and its inhabitants. Through his newfound passion, he worked tirelessly to raise awareness, collaborating with environmental organizations to protect the wilderness and promote responsible cohabitation. And so, the tale of Veeramani, the tiger, the bear, and the buffalo herd lived on, its resonance echoing through the generations. It stood as a testament to the extraordinary bonds that can form in the most unlikely of circumstances and the profound impact that one person's survival can have on an entire community. |
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The Beggar-Prince
(Veeraswamy Krishnaraj)
In a temple town that buzzed with life, our protagonist embarked on his
daily routine as the sun reached its zenith. From noon until sundown, he
traversed the bustling streets, encountering a diverse range of
individuals—some kind, others offensive, a few downright hostile. Yet,
regardless of the treatment he received, he remained calm and composed,
responding to each interaction with gentle words and unwavering
kindness.
Physically frail and thin, he possessed an innate introspection that
shone through his eyes. Despite his meager stature, he navigated the
town with familiarity, ensuring that no street, house, door number, or
resident went unnoticed. The cadence, inflection, and diction of each
person became etched in his memory, forging connections beyond the
superficial.
Engaged in a vocation that faced its fair share of competition and
challenges, he relied on his native intelligence to carve a path.
Through his professional interactions, he skillfully dispensed sweet and
charming words, weaving linguistic magic that garnered valuable goods in
return. The limitations of his body prevented him from seeking
alternative professions, as chronic malnutrition plagued his existence.
Within the boundaries of his humble abode, a simple hut with corrugated
tin roofing, four mud walls, a door, and a solitary window, he lived a
solitary existence. No dog or cat offered him companionship, but a small
sunroof granted him a glimpse of light, illuminating his modest
dwelling. Constructed by his putative father from salvaged materials
collected from the city dump, the hut stood as a testament to resilience
and resourcefulness.
In his possession, he carried a small handheld Udukkai, an
hourglass-shaped drum, accompanied by a hammer held in his left palm.
With a twist of his forearm, the hammer struck the stretched animal
skin, emitting a pleasant sound that served as his calling card when he
arrived at his place of business. At the first beat of the drum, the
women of the house appeared, bearing warm smiles and offering sustenance
in his begging bowl.
However, his chosen profession was not without its challenges. Some
women chastised him, urging him to find gainful employment, and withheld
food as a means of reprimand. Others resorted to physical aggression,
striking him with twigs and sticks. Yet, amidst the adversity, he
remained resolute, quietly consuming the food offered by compassionate
souls and selflessly feeding the discarded morsels to the birds, even
when the fare was delectable.
One fateful day, after an exhausting round of begging, he satiated his
hunger, generously sharing his meager meal with the avian creatures that
circled above. As he approached his modest abode, a group of uniformed
individuals armed with swords and daggers pounced upon him, their
intentions unclear to the bewildered beggar. Without a word, they
escorted him to a magnificent palace, where they presented him before
the reigning king. Perplexed and stripped of his garments, he stood
humiliated, unaware of the unfolding drama.
In a sudden moment of revelation, a piercing shriek erupted from the
queen, her voice trembling with recognition. All eyes turned towards
her, witnessing her uncontainable emotions as she exclaimed, "That is my
son!"
The story unraveled, revealing that the young prince had been abducted
during his preschool years. Whispers of an abduction had spread
throughout the palace, and the royal jewels, stolen alongside the
prince, had found their way to a local lapidary. Unbeknownst to the prince, his disappearance had been orchestrated by the kidnapper, who had sold the stolen treasures and raised the young prince as a professional beggar.
Miraculously, the kidnapper had refrained from inflicting permanent
disfigurement upon the prince, allowing him to retain his innate
dignity. Over the years, the prince had grown in the care of the
kidnapper, who worked as an itinerant coolie, wandering from place to
place. Their nomadic existence provided them with a semblance of safety,
hidden from the prying eyes of the world.
Yet, unbeknownst to them, powerful forces had been in pursuit,
determined to unravel the truth and bring the prince back to his
rightful place. The palace guards had tirelessly searched for both the
kidnapper and the missing prince, following every lead that came their
way.
Ultimately, fate intervened in the form of an unwitting lapidary.
Oblivious to the significance of the stolen jewels, he had come into
possession of them and, upon realizing their origin, promptly returned
them to the palace. It was this act of redemption that set the wheels of
destiny in motion.
And so, on that fateful day, the prince found himself standing before
the king and queen, exposed and vulnerable. His mother's cry of
recognition reverberated through the palace halls, piercing the air with
a mixture of joy, relief, and anguish for the years lost. The king, too,
was moved by the sight of his long-lost son, rushing to embrace him in
an overwhelming display of paternal love.
With the prince safely returned to his rightful place, the palace buzzed
with fervor. The search for the kidnapper intensified, and it wasn't
long before the guards located him, slumbering peacefully beneath the
shade of a tree. They swiftly apprehended him and presented him before
the royal couple, his former role as the royal gardener still fresh in
their memories.
In an astonishing turn of events, the king and queen decided to extend
mercy and compassion to the once-criminal gardener. Recognizing the
complexity of human nature and the potential for redemption, they
offered him an opportunity for rehabilitation. Rather than meting out
harsh punishment, they assigned him to work in the palace gravel pit,
under the watchful eyes of the royal staff.
As the days turned into months, and the months into years, the gardener
diligently applied himself to his new role. Gradually, he honed his
skills, developing a deep passion for stones and gems. Through
perseverance and dedication, he transformed into a skilled gemologist
and lapidary, contributing invaluable expertise to the royal household.
The palace stood as a testament to the lessons learned from this
extraordinary journey. The townspeople, too, were profoundly impacted by
the unfolding events. The tale of the beggar prince and his
rehabilitated kidnapper resonated within their hearts, inspiring them to
abandon their preconceived judgments and embrace the possibility of
transformation.
Lessons emerged from the tapestry of this remarkable story. It became a
reminder that appearances could be deceiving and that every individual
deserved compassion and understanding. The redemption of the
once-criminal gardener showcased the potential for growth and
reinvention, while the return of the prince to his rightful place
underscored the importance of familial bonds and the power of love. And so, the kingdom flourished under the reign of a wise and compassionate king, his queen, and their long-lost prince. Their triumph over adversity became a lasting symbol of hope, reminding all who heard the tale that within the depths of darkness, the light of redemption can shine brightly, illuminating the path towards a brighter future. |
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♥A Gift from the Heart♥ By Veeraswamy Krishnaraj September 1, 2019 Revised May 21, 2023
Tim and Tammy's lakeside abode was a haven nestled amidst the majestic
forest, where extraordinary events were about to unfold. In the
enchanting backdrop of nature, a pair of wise and watchful owls named
Danny and Danielle (or D & D) perched on a tree branch, their eyes
fixated upon the statue of Baby Jesus gracing the backyard. Unbeknownst
to the humans, these owls had a remarkable connection—an unspoken bond
akin to that of a devoted husband and wife.
The Lion
and The
Sheep by Veeraswamy Krishnaraj
July 8, 2020
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The
Hummingbird and the Cat By Veeraswamy Krishnaraj Feb 11, 2019
. Revised may 22, 2023
In search of a serene sanctuary to pen
his research manuscript, an intellectual writer ventured into a secluded
ravine. Little did he know that an angry demon dwelled within, awaiting
his arrival.
The lion king was on a bed with heavy bandage on the foot and the leg.
The queen was in grief shedding tears and wiping the nose.
The animals stood in line to pay respects, express sorrow and utter
‘get-well-soon’ whisper. A
fox broke into the line and as it neared the bed, gave a big sigh and
said, ‘All for the good.’ The king of beasts was burning and boiling with anger,
hearing such callous note.
The king thought to himself, “Here I am in bed, having lost a toe and
this fox tells It is all for good. The lion ordered the fox seized and
jailed in the cave-prison.
A
contingent
of monkey soldiers jumped on the fox and hauled him away to the prison.
The fox lamented upon arrest, “Every act happens for our good: that is
the truth.”
The wound of the foot took three months to heal. Because of missing toe,
the king of beasts could not walk with a majestic bearing but limped
along. The backbiting animals said of the king, he was a ‘Lame and
Limping Lion
King.’
The queen hearing the derisive rumors and remarks was very unhappy. What
could she do? She thought,
the cub-prince, on identifying the backbiter, could punish him.
No one knew of the mischievous rabbit for giving the king a derogatory
moniker.
The jailed fox was given vegetarian food daily once a day. The wild
roots and fruits caused nausea in the fox. What to do? Instead of
keeping quiet, spilling words caused my ruination for life.
Such was his thinking and he exhaled a deep sigh.
The kingly beast went on a hunt on his limping leg, saw a goat in a cave
with open gates, jumped on it with gusto and ate the goat.
Eructing a loud belch, the lion turned around to go back home but found
the iron gates in the cave were shut closed. He regretted having been
caught. In its fury, it emitted a roar. The soldiers muzzled the poor
king of beasts, tied him by a rope, loaded him on a wagon and took him for delivery to the prince,
saying, “We have a caged lion for our prince to play with. He would be happy
to see the lion. Seeing the joy of the prince, the king would offer us
rewards.” Saying such words, they reached the palace.
When they brought the lion down from the cage in the wagon, they saw it
limping.
They were unhappy. Thinking they cannot train the lame lion for the
sport of the prince, they took the lion back into the forest. The lion
was happy to realize the missing toe and lameness were the saving grace
and prompted the soldiers
to take him back to the forest.
The lion thought, “I jailed the fox for saying, ‘It is all for
the good.’ I realize now the truth said by the fox.” Upon return to its
cave, the lion narrated the event to his wife and children.
The lion called on the simian soldiers and ordered them to release the
fox. The lion king invited the fox to his presence and extolled, “You
are the ocean of intellect. From here on, you are my minister. Your
prediction, ‘All for the good,’ came true. Whatever may be the
utterance, it must be explored without haste: That is what I am
delighted to understand now.”
Once you think that all events are for one’s welfare, there is no
such thing as grievous event.
The starving lion and the fox.
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United We Stand (fly); Divided We Fall
High above the temple tower, blue and white doves nestled in their
respective nests. The aristocratic blue doves carried an air of
superiority, looking down upon their lowly white counterparts. However,
an impending renovation of the tower disrupted their peaceful abode,
compelling them to seek new locations for their nests.
1) Nicobar pigeon. 2) Pink Neck Pigeon, 3) Yellow-footed Pigeon. 4) NYC Times Square pigeon.
I Once upon a time in India, there lived a magnificent temple elephant that stole the show during the festive seasons. With its massive yet graceful presence, it was the talk of the town. One day, after a refreshing bath in the lake, the elephant was happily munching on a bunch of bananas, savoring the post-bath snack.As the elephant made its way back to the temple, it encountered a pig on the bridge. Now, this pig was a sight to behold, covered in layers of mud, muck, and slime. The elephant, being a clean and regal creature, couldn't avoid the pig as it was halfway across the bridge. With a deep breath, the elephant gracefully moved to the side, attempting to avoid any physical contact and the pungent odor emanating from the pig. Feeling rather proud of itself, the pig took this gesture as a sign of fear from the elephant. It immediately changed its gait, lifted its snout in the air, and strutted across the bridge as if it owned the place. The pig even reminisced about its grandmother calling it "Shayna Punim," which means pretty face. Meanwhile, the other pigs watching this spectacle were astonished. They couldn't understand why the elephant had moved aside for the dirty pig. Worried about their bridge-walking companion, they feared the elephant could have crushed the pig to a pulp. With a sense of grandeur, the pig climbed onto a rock and addressed its admirers. It exclaimed, "My dear compatriots, witness what happened on the bridge! The mighty temple elephant was so afraid of me that it graciously moved aside and allowed me to pass. Behold my greatness!" The other pigs, grunting in appreciation, raised their forelegs in homage and celebrated the pig's audacious tale with jovial delight. Of course, this incident didn't go unnoticed. The news spread like wildfire, reaching the ears of the other temple elephants through the gossiping goose, who had been perched on the bridge rail, keenly observing the entire episode. Intrigued by the story, the assembly of temple elephants decided to hold a judicial inquiry. They questioned the senior elephant, asking if it was true that it had let a dirty pig pass out of fear. The panelists couldn't comprehend how such a distinguished creature could tolerate such an egregious act from a pig. The younger sibling of the defendant, feeling embarrassed, immediately recused itself from the proceedings. Meanwhile, the senior temple elephant stood tall, remaining silent until the concerns of the assembled elephants were voiced. Finally, in a calm and deliberate manner, the senior elephant addressed the panel. "Dear friends," it began, "I understand your concerns, but let me assure you, I did not let you down on the 'Bridgegate' matter, as it has been so playfully named. You all know me well, and you know I could have effortlessly crushed that silly pig with a mere touch of my forefoot. But it wasn't about fear, oh no! That pig was dripping with mud and slime, emitting the most odious smell you can imagine. If I had flattened that dirty pig, my foot would have been stained with its blood, mud, muck, and mire. So, I made a choice. Do I want to stay clean or get drabbled? Well, my friends, I chose the former, gracefully moving aside and letting that frowzy pig pass by. That schmutzy pig may think it scared me, but the truth is far from it." The panel, appreciating the elephant's wise explanation, applauded the enlightened senior elephant. They realized that the elephant's choice was not out of fear, but rather a preference for cleanliness over getting entangled in a messy situation. The senior elephant's decision to avoid the dirty pig was a lesson in choosing one's associations wisely. From that day forward, the elephants in the temple and beyond took the senior elephant's advice to heart. They sought the company of virtuous and clean-spirited beings, avoiding the vile and unsavory characters that might tarnish their own reputations. As for the pig, it continued to bask in its own self-proclaimed glory, proudly boasting about the time it "scared" the mighty temple elephant. The other pigs, however, knew the truth and couldn't help but snicker at the pig's inflated ego. Deep down, they understood that the elephant's choice had been a matter of cleanliness rather than fear. And so, the tale of the Indian elephant and the pig became a favorite anecdote told and retold in the country. It reminded everyone of the importance of surrounding oneself with virtuous companions and avoiding associations that could lead to unnecessary complications. As the saying goes, "United we stand, divided we fall." But in the case of the temple elephant and the pig, it was more like, "Stay clean and choose your company wisely, or you might find yourself wallowing in unnecessary mud and mire!" And so, the animals in the temple and the surrounding forest heeded this lesson, living harmoniously and choosing their associations with a touch of humor and wisdom. Lesson: When it comes to associations, choose those who uplift and inspire you, and avoid getting entangled in unnecessary messes. After all, a clean and virtuous path leads to a happier and more fulfilling life. Fox’s Tantra; Grandma’s Vadai Revised on may 23, 2023
The Rabbit and the Lion
Once upon a time in the forest, the animals devised a clever plan to
protect themselves from the lion's daily hunt. They approached the
lion's den and boldly declared, "Your majesty, we have come to a
unanimous decision. Henceforth, we shall offer ourselves as your meal
each day. By doing so, you won't have to waste energy hunting, and we
can ensure our survival. It's a win-win situation."
Crocodile and monkey
.
Crow’s Strategy to slake its thirst
In the blistering heat of summer, where the air was heavy with thirst, a
cunning crow devised a plan to satisfy its own parched throat. It
tirelessly soared through the skies, alongside other birds, in search of
water until it stumbled upon an aged pot used for making toddy, its neck
narrow and long. Perching on the rim, the crow peered inside and
discovered, to its delight, a small reserve of water resting at the
bottom.
The Salt Merchant and the failed Donkey’s Stratagem.
Great Greed, Great Loss
Compliance helps grow Cooperation and prevents Loss.
Two cats in a house were friends.
They for lack of cooperation were fighting with each other. One
day, they had a pancake and disputed over equal sharing. They took the
pancake outside the house seeking someone to cut the pancake into two
equal parts. They saw a monkey, whom they asked to cut it into two
parts. The monkey brought a weighing scale with two plates, cut the
pancake into two pieces and put each half on each plate. One plate
pivoted to one side. The monkey knowing it is heavier than its fellow,
bit a piece out of the heavier one and placed it back on the plate.
Then, the other half was heavier and the monkey took a bite out of it
and placed it back on the plate.
In like manner, the monkey took a bite out of the pancake and ate from
each plate multiple times.
The cats seeing the size of the pancake halves getting smaller asked the
monkey not to proceed any further with cutting the pancake into equal
halves and give the rest back to them.
But the monkey ate what was left of the two halves, saying the
leftover bits of pancake were his labor charges. Were the cats
accommodating and cooperative, both could have eaten the pancake.
Because of lack of cooperation, they sustained a loss.
If we show a loving sense of give and take, we could prosper by
not losing what we already have.
Don’t Deride the Small.
Small and Fast Beats Strong and Fast .
Don’t deride the small. He
is superior by other measures. This is an apologue to teach us that
lesson.
A lion was a resident of a forest and terrorized all other animals by
its strength, appearance, roar... Because of fear of the lion, no one
went near it. They scooted
at the sight of the lion.
But the lowly fearless fly landed on its back.
Knowing the fly sitting on its back, it roared with anger and
said, “I will bite you with my teeth and macerate you. I will scratch
you with my nails, squash and reduce you to ashes.”
The fly retorted boldly to the lion and said, “You may be strong and
other animals fear you. I am not afraid of you. To emphasize this
further, I will make you to bite yourself and scratch yourself deeply
into your flesh. Hearing this boastful irreverence from the lowly fly,
the lion challenged the fly, “Go ahead and make my day.” The fly sat on
the back of the lion. To
chase it from its back, the lion tried to bite it with its teeth.
The lowly fly took off in a trice and the lion bit itself on the
back with its teeth. The
fly sat smack on the lion’s face and to swat the fly with the nails of
its paw in its anger, it scratched itself on the face. In like manner
the fly excoriated the lion multiple times and flew off.
The mighty lion could not catch or squash the fly. Therefore, the lion
was ashamed of his inability to kill the fly.
Then only, the lion understood the concept though it had a strong body, a fly could torment it to no end. No one should be scorned
or judged because of one’s small size.
Tiruvalluvar explains this in his verse, 667.
குறள் 667:
உருவுகண்டு எள்ளாமை வேண்டும் உருள்பெருந்தேர்க்கு
அச்சாணி அன்னார் உடைத்து.
Tirukkural Verse 667
Seeing the size, ridicule not.
The Temple Chariot rolls
Because of the linchpin though small, one should realize.
Meaning:
Though the form is small, ridicule and derision should not be levelled
against him. A big Temple Chariot’s smooth run is because of its small
linchpin.
Attention to the Task at hand is a must.
Once upon a time, in a quaint village, there lived a young girl who made
her living by selling fresh cow's milk. Each day, she diligently milked
the cow, poured the milk into a pot, and balanced it carefully on her
head as she ventured into the village to sell her wares. However, the
lass couldn't help but feel discontented with her situation. While her
peers joyfully adorned themselves in fine clothing and reveled in
carefree lives, she trudged along with a heavy pot upon her head,
yearning for a change.
Don’t Dare to give Advice to a Scamp
Beware the Scamp: When Advice Falls on Deaf
Ears
Deceit’s reward is one’s own deceit.
The Mischievous Fox and the Wise Crane: Lessons in Empathy
Love, Victory or Wealth: Which is greater? Revised May 23, 2023.
Valluvar explains:
குறள் 80:
அன்பின் வழியது
உயிர்நிலை அஃதிலார்க்கு
என்புதோல்
போர்த்த உடம்பு.
Tirukkural
Verse 80
The path of soul is love. For those lacking love, the body is skeleton
wrapped in skin. Krishnaraj
The living body is love in the path of the soul. If love is lacking,
that body is mere skeleton wrapped in skin. Loving mind is synonym for
man.
Astute & Tactful Dog Escapes
with Life
Dog, Cheetah and Monkey:
The Cunning Escape: Dog, Cheetah, and Monkey
The Crow and the Queen’s Necklace
The King Takes a Lesson from a Spider.
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In the vibrant Madamundu forest, a multitude of animals thrived. Among them were several troops of monkeys, engaged in constant territorial battles. Whenever a stray monkey unintentionally wandered into another troop's territory, the warrior monkeys would pounce on the intruder, relentlessly driving them away from the fruit-laden trees. However, the monkeys had no defense against the agile fruit bats, birds, and squirrels who effortlessly swooped in, seized the fruits, and swiftly departed. Frustrated, the fighter monkeys struggled to protect their territory from these airborne and fast-moving creatures. In addition to the lively monkeys, the forest was also home to bears, skilled climbers who could feast on fruits and indulge in the sweet honey from beehives. All the monkeys could do in response was screech, scream, squirm, and display their teeth, but their brave display had no effect on the bears. Tigers, having no natural enemies apart from humans, would occasionally climb trees and take peaceful naps on the sturdy branches when bothered by flies in the undergrowth. The monkeys had no control over the tigers, who roamed freely and consumed whatever they pleased. If the monkeys were too aggressive, the tigers would not hesitate to prey upon them. Stragglers from rival troops often suffered severe injuries, bruises, and wounds. Under such circumstances, the troops existed in a state of uneasy coexistence, living separately but with an underlying tension. Some stragglers ventured out of the forest and settled in nearby villages and towns, surviving on meager scraps. Others were bolder and engaged in raids, scavenging peanut farms where heaps of harvested peanuts awaited transportation. Their favorite targets were plantain farms, where they shamelessly snatched bananas right from the hands of the farm workers, skillfully selecting the ripe yellow ones. Mango farms faced a similar plight. Troops of monkeys would infiltrate the farms during the harvest season when the fruits were half-ripe or fully ripe. They would raid fruit-processing plants, leaping onto the heads of workers, irrespective of gender, grabbing slices of skinned ripe mangoes from the conveyor belts, and stuffing them into their pouches. The workers, devotees of Hanuman, the monkey god, harbored no ill will towards the monkeys. However, the incessant stealing and harassment became a daily annoyance. To address the issue, the owner of a fruit processing plant hired owners and Hanuman monkeys (Langur monkeys) to patrol the premises. The presence of the Langur monkeys and their handlers deterred the rhesus monkeys from entering the plant, as their larger size intimidated the rhesus monkeys, keeping them away from the processing area. Consequently, the prices of fruits rose, but at least there were no more invasions from the simian intruders. In another mango processing plant, the owner decided to install a perimeter fence made of razor wire, preventing the monkeys from leaping over and gaining access to the processing area. Some audacious monkeys ended up trapped within the intricate maze of razor wire, sustaining painful lacerations and ultimately losing their lives. Their distressed companions screeched and made a ruckus, catching the attention of the owner. Deeply moved by their plight, the owner promptly dismantled the razor wire fence, determined to prevent any further unnecessary deaths of the monkeys. Meanwhile, within the forest, a stray and abandoned monkey was scavenging the forest floor in search of fallen fruits. It stumbled upon a snail and struck up a conversation. Curious, the monkey asked the snail, "Who are you?" The snail replied calmly, "I am a snail." Mockingly, the monkey retorted, "Ah, the two-neuron moron! One neuron tells you when you're hungry, and the other neuron helps you identify food." Offended by the monkey's insults, the snail responded, "Is there no limit to your insults? You came to me seeking a favor, and now I have a request for you. I would like to ride on your back as you leap from branch to branch and swing on your prehensile tail." The monkey, intrigued by the snail's proposition, considered the offer. "I see," he mused. "So, besides the Hungry-Neuron and the Food-Neuron, you must have a Play-Neuron as well. Very well, what can you do for me in return?" With a hint of pride, the snail replied, "I can keep you free of nits, those pesky parasites that infest your fur." Intrigued by the snail's proposition and recognizing the potential benefits, the monkey agreed to the arrangement. From that day forward, the snail would ride on the monkey's back, feasting on the abundant fruits they encountered along their journey. Days turned into months, and the snail grew larger, indulging in the plentiful fruits shared by the monkey. Throughout their companionship, the snail remained true to its promise, diligently removing any nits or parasites that tried to make a home in the monkey's fur. However, as time passed, the snail grew heavier and heavier, becoming a burden for the monkey to carry. Sensing that the weight was becoming too much to bear, the monkey knew it was time for the snail to disembark from its perch. "Mr. Snail," the monkey spoke gently, "you have now become a megaton Moron. Your weight is becoming too heavy for me to bear. It is time for you to leave my back. Thank you for being a friend and for fulfilling your promise to keep me free from nits." Understanding the monkey's predicament, the snail reluctantly bid farewell to its reliable perch. As the monkey reached the tranquil shores of a nearby lake, he gently placed the snail on the ground. A troop of monkeys, sensing the arrival of their estranged companion, greeted the weary traveler with open arms, offering him ripe fruits as a gesture of welcome and reunion. With gratitude for the friendship they had shared, the monkey and the snail went their separate ways, their unlikely bond a testament to the power of companionship during times of struggle and hardship. For in the vast tapestry of life, even the most dissimilar creatures can find solace and support in the presence of a true friend, offering comfort and camaraderie when one is down and out. |
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Perumal's Stealth Walk Fearing an Old Sulking
Woman சுண்டல் பாட்டி = Sundal Pātti = Sundal Grandma Sundal Grandma Goes to Heaven. Veeraswamy Krishnaraj (June 8, 2020) |
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In the foothills of Tiruppathi, Māṅgāpuram
village was on the path to the Tiruppathi hills. There lived an old
woman who made a living selling Suṇdal (Hot, Spicy, flavored and cooked
Chickpeas with bits of unripe mango and small chunks of coconut). She
was a widow. She lived by herself with no money or filial support. She
had a mother lode of self-respect and dignity. She would not go begging
to make a living. She was a sulker, saying often why she took birth. In those days when there were no cars or buses, people in large droves took the jungle path to reach the Tirupati temple. They had waystations along the route for rest, refreshment and relaxation. The Suṇdal Vendor one day asked one pilgrim why they go up the hill. Hearing her simplistic question, the crowd laughed. One man of gentle nature came forward and stopped to answer her question. “My dear grandma! What kind of question is this? Have you heard of the Lord of the Seven Hills? You are the only one woman of Tirupati at the foothills who does not know of the Perumāḷ temple up on the hill. Where were you all these years? I am surprised beyond belief.” She was unfamiliar with the hill temple. “Ammā! Swamy is up on the hill. If you get Darsan of the Swamy, you will never be born again to sell Suṇdal. Govinda is his favorite name. "Go with us, pay homage to him and worship him. Call him “Govinda-Govindā.” All your sins will vanish.” She trudged up the hills, often falling behind others, mostly young in age. She reached the hilltop temple, so grand in its majesty. She witnessed and received Darsan of the Lord of Seven Hills. With a melting heart and sore legs, she addressed the Lord, “Govindā! One devotee of yours told me that if I pay homage to you, I never take another birth. I plead to you I should not have another birth. The devotees who came with her began their journey down the hill. She stayed back to give rest to her sore legs and creaky joints. Anyway, she had to sell her leftover Sunḍal. An handsome old man unsteady in his walk, and wearing rags for clothes approached her and said, “Āmmā! Your Sunḍal smells great half a block away. I just followed my nose. Here I am. Can I have some of it? She gave him the Suṇdal. He ate it eagerly smacking his lips and licking his fingers. He began walking like he owned the seven hills. The sundal must have given him the boost in his walk. She accosted him, saying, “Ayyā! Pay me for the Suṇdal, that you ate before me. The freeloader said, “Ammā! I am a debtor. I borrowed money for my wedding. I pay all my earnings toward interest payments, which are a pretty sum. I have no money on me now for your Suṇdal. Will you please take my word promissory as a guarantee? I will be here tomorrow exactly at this hour, and will pay you then. I promise. I missed not even one payment so far.” The old woman replied, “Alright, bring the money tomorrow." How would the village woman Gaṅgamma know the tricks of the Lord of the Seven Hills? The next day, the old man did not show up as he promised. She waited and waited and mortified by his no-show promise, shuffled off her mortal coil. Paranthāmaṉ, instead of paying his debt in money, gave to the dead woman the heavenly abode, Vaikuntam. Is he not the one who took human birth as Srinivasan and dawned on earth? He did not keep his promise to give the owed money to the old woman. Poor woman, she died not knowing her unpaid Sunḍal to the Lord of the Universe earned her an applause for the spicy morsel from the old man in rags and a place in Vaikuntam. Because of his failure to pay back the debt, he goes like a sneak and a slouch in a hiding stance without the beating of the drums, clanging of the cymbals and the sonic booms of Nadasvaram at the festival during his procession, fearing the old woman. The tradition is that all the story readers of this episode live a long life, will reach Vaikuntam and will not take rebirth in this world (of misery and deprivation). Have some Sunḍal and be happy. God is Love. Love is God. His ways are mysterious. All your woes will vanish, if you have trust in him. |
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