CORE II –INDIAN WRITING IN ENGLISH - 23BEN1C2 Unit I: Vishnu Sharma - Winning of Friends (Panchatantra) (Selection of Stories)
CORE II –INDIAN WRITING IN ENGLISH - 23BEN1C2
Unit I: Vishnu Sharma - Winning of Friends (Panchatantra) (Selection of Stories)
The story of the Sadhu and the mouse
🧭 Setting the Stage: Wisdom in Adversity
The story opens with a verse emphasizing the central theme of this section:
“Clever people and those well-versed in niti-shastra (ethical and
political wisdom), even when lacking resources, quickly succeed—like the crow,
the mouse, the turtle, and the stag.”
The story unfolds near Mahilaropyam, a city in southern
India. A large tree near the city provides shelter and fruit to countless birds
and shade to weary travelers. On one of its branches lives a clever crow named Laghupatanaka.
⚠️ The Hunter's Trap
One day, while flying in search of food, Laghupatanaka spots a fearsome
black hunter approaching the tree. The hunter sets up a net
under the tree, scattering white grains of rice as bait, and hides
nearby. Recognizing the danger, the crow warns the other birds:
“Do not touch the rice—it is poison!”
Thanks to his warning, the tree’s birds avoid the trap.
🕊️ The Fall of Chitragreeva and His
Flock
At this moment, Chitragreeva, king of the doves, flies
nearby with his large retinue, searching for food. They spot the glistening
rice and, despite Laghupatanaka’s warning, they descend toward it. Ignoring
the crow, they are ensnared in the hunter’s net.
This scene reflects a key theme in Indian wisdom literature:
“When fate turns hostile, even the wisest lose their clarity. Doom blinds
the mind.”
💪 Unity in Crisis
The hunter is delighted and moves in to collect his catch. But Chitragreeva,
calm despite the panic, urges his flock to stay united:
“Let us lift the net together and fly!”
Following the principle:
“Small things united become strong—like threads of cotton woven into a
rope.”
All the doves flap in unison, lifting the net into the air and flying away
before the hunter can act. The astonished hunter runs after them, hoping they
quarrel mid-air and fall.
🪶 The Curious Crow Follows
Laghupatanaka is so intrigued by the doves’ escape that he forgets about his
own food and follows them to see what happens next.
The hunter, despairing, mutters:
“When fate is unkind, even what’s in your hand slips away.”
🐭 The Mouse to the Rescue: True
Friendship
Chitragreeva leads his flock to Mahilaropyam, where his
close friend Hiranyaka, a wise and resourceful mouse, lives in
a secure hole with many entrances. Chitragreeva calls out for help. Cautiously,
Hiranyaka confirms his identity and emerges joyfully—only to be dismayed by the
sight of the entangled doves.
Chitragreeva confesses:
“It was my greed for food that led to this.”
But Hiranyaka reassures him with philosophical wisdom:
“Even the wisest can fall prey to fate. Yama (death) does not discriminate.”
👑 Nobility of Leadership
Hiranyaka begins to gnaw Chitragreeva free first, but the dove king stops
him:
“Free my followers first. They left their homes for me; I must repay their
loyalty.”
He explains:
·
A king’s duty is to care for his people.
·
If he escapes and others remain trapped, he’ll
suffer guilt both on Earth and in the afterlife.
Impressed, Hiranyaka agrees, saying he was only testing the king’s
character. He frees all the doves, and finally Chitragreeva. The doves
thank him, and the flock departs.
🪤 Laghupatanaka Seeks a Friend
The crow, amazed by Hiranyaka’s intellect and virtue,
thinks:
“Such a friend could save my life if I’m ever in trouble.”
He decides to befriend the mouse.
But Hiranyaka is suspicious:
“You’re a crow—I’m a mouse. Our species are natural enemies.”
The mouse delivers a lesson on types of enmity:
1. Situational
enmity (can be resolved)
2. Inherent
enmity (cannot be erased—like that between cat and mouse, hunter and
deer)
Laghupatanaka argues with gentle logic and poetry:
·
They’ve never quarreled—why assume hostility?
·
Friendship should be based on mutual benefit and
goodwill, not old notions.
Eventually, the crow’s sincerity softens Hiranyaka’s heart.
🌿 Friendship Blossoms
The two unlikely companions become close friends. The crow brings treats for
the mouse; the mouse saves leftovers for the crow. They exchange stories and
moral teachings.
“True friendship reveals itself in mutual joy, trust, and sharing.”
Over time, Hiranyaka even begins to sit beneath the crow’s wings,
comfortable and safe.
🌧️ The Decision to Move
One day, Laghupatanaka appears sad. He tells Hiranyaka that drought has
struck the land. People are starving, and crows are now hunted instead of fed.
“I cannot watch the destruction of my kind. I must leave.”
He plans to fly south to a jungle lake, where his friend, a
turtle named Mantharaka, lives.
Hiranyaka, too, has suffered hardships and asks to accompany him. The crow
agrees to carry him on his back.
🌊 Arrival at the Lake
Together, they fly to the jungle lake. Upon arrival, the startled turtle
dives into the water, thinking the crow has returned to hunt. But hearing his
name, he joyfully greets Laghupatanaka.
Laghupatanaka introduces Hiranyaka as a trusted and beloved friend,
dearer than life itself. The mouse bows respectfully to the turtle, and the
three form a lasting bond.
🧩 Conclusion: The Seeds of the Four-Friend Alliance
This story forms the foundation for the famed alliance of four
animals:
·
Laghupatanaka the crow (wisdom
and foresight),
·
Hiranyaka the mouse (strategy
and intelligence),
·
Chitragreeva the dove
(leadership and unity),
·
Mantharaka the turtle (loyalty
and calmness).
Together, they symbolize the idea that friendship among the wise,
even across species or differences, can overcome the deadliest of traps.
🌟 Moral Lessons:
1. Unity
is Strength – The doves escaped only because they acted together.
2. Wisdom
over Strength – The mouse’s intellect saved the day.
3. Character
Tests Loyalty – Chitragreeva’s choice to free his followers first
showed true leadership.
4. Trust
Grows Gradually – Even natural enemies can become friends through
mutual respect and conversation.
5. Friendship
Transcends Differences – Real friendship is based on values, not
appearances.
✅
10 Two-Mark Questions and Answers (2 Sentences Each)
1. Who
was Laghupatanaka and where did he live?
Laghupatanaka was a clever crow who lived on the branches of a large tree near
Mahilaropyam city. The tree offered shade and fruit to birds and travelers.
2. What
did the hunter do to trap the birds?
The hunter spread a net under the tree and scattered grains of rice as bait. He
then hid nearby to catch unsuspecting birds.
3. What
warning did Laghupatanaka give to the birds?
He warned them not to touch the rice, calling it poison. His words saved the
regular tree-dwelling birds.
4. Who
was Chitragreeva and what happened to him?
Chitragreeva was the king of the doves. He and his entire flock ignored the
crow’s warning and were trapped in the hunter’s net.
5. How
did the doves escape from the hunter?
Under Chitragreeva’s guidance, they lifted the net together by flapping their
wings in unison and flew away.
6. Why
did Laghupatanaka follow the doves?
He was curious to see what would happen next. His interest in their unity made
him forget his hunger.
7. Who
was Hiranyaka and how did he help?
Hiranyaka was a wise mouse and a friend of Chitragreeva. He bit through the net
and freed the trapped doves.
8. Why
did Chitragreeva ask Hiranyaka to free his followers first?
He believed it was his kingly duty to care for his subjects before himself. He
feared escaping alone would be selfish and dishonorable.
9. Why
was Hiranyaka hesitant to befriend Laghupatanaka?
He believed mice and crows were natural enemies. He quoted examples from nature
to explain the idea of inherent enmity.
10. How
did the friendship between the crow and the mouse grow?
Through trust, conversation, and acts of kindness. Eventually, they exchanged
gifts and stories and became true friends.
✅ 5 Five-Mark Questions and Answers (Paragraph Form)
1. Explain
how Chitragreeva’s leadership helped the doves escape the hunter.
When the doves were trapped in the hunter’s net, panic set in. But Chitragreeva
remained calm and advised unity. He reminded them that small efforts, when
combined, become powerful—like cotton threads becoming strong rope. Following his
wise leadership, the doves lifted the net together and flew away, escaping
danger. His presence of mind, courage, and selflessness highlight the
importance of strong leadership in times of crisis.
2. Describe
the character of Hiranyaka and how he helped his friend.
Hiranyaka is portrayed as a wise, cautious, and loyal mouse. Despite initial
hesitation, he comes out upon recognizing Chitragreeva’s voice. He not only
comforts his friend but insists on testing his nobility before freeing the
doves. When convinced, he starts freeing the followers before the king, showing
understanding of both personal loyalty and ethical duty. His role underlines
the Panchatantra theme: intellect is mightier than size.
3. Why
did Laghupatanaka want to befriend Hiranyaka?
After seeing Hiranyaka rescue the doves with skill and wisdom, Laghupatanaka
realized the value of such a friend. He thought that in future danger, this
clever mouse could save him too. He admired Hiranyaka’s ability and knowledge
of niti-shastra and approached him humbly. This shows Laghupatanaka’s foresight
and his ability to recognize and seek valuable relationships across natural
boundaries.
4. How
does the story reflect the theme of fate and effort?
The story often mentions fate and destiny—like the doves falling into the trap
despite warning, and the hunter’s loss despite having the net in hand. However,
it also shows that wise effort, unity, and intelligence can overcome fate. The
doves escape by teamwork, and the mouse removes the net. The message is clear:
fate may initiate trouble, but courage and wisdom help us survive it.
5. What
does the story teach about forming unlikely friendships?
The story challenges the idea that natural enemies must remain so forever.
Laghupatanaka and Hiranyaka, initially wary of each other, become close
friends. Through honest dialogue and mutual benefit, they learn to trust. Their
friendship blossoms into one of sharing, learning, and comfort. The moral is
that friendship depends not on background but on trust, respect, and shared values.
📝 Essay Question with Answer
Q: How does the story of the Crow, the Doves, and the Mouse
Hiranyaka illustrate the value of friendship, leadership, and unity?
Introduction
The Panchatantra tale of the crow Laghupatanaka, the dove king
Chitragreeva, and the mouse Hiranyaka from the section “Winning of
Friends” is a profound fable that teaches how friendship, courage,
leadership, and unity can triumph over danger and deceit. It blends dramatic
storytelling with moral reflection and has relevance across ages and cultures.
1. Leadership in Crisis – The Wisdom of Chitragreeva
When the doves are trapped in the hunter’s net, Chitragreeva shows calmness
and clarity. He reminds them of the power of unity and leads them to fly
together, lifting the net. His refusal to escape alone and insistence on
rescuing his followers first shows noble kingship. He upholds duty over
personal safety.
2. True Friendship – Hiranyaka’s Loyalty and Logic
Hiranyaka the mouse is a wise character who lives cautiously but loyally. He
responds immediately to his friend’s call, yet questions the situation
carefully. His advice, actions, and respect for fairness reflect true
friendship. His test of the king’s priorities is a clever way to reinforce the
duties of friendship.
3. Intelligence Over Strength – The Mouse’s Role
Though small, Hiranyaka outwits the hunter’s trap and saves many lives. He
reminds us that size does not determine impact. His secure home, his deep
thinking, and his bravery all highlight that intelligence and preparation
are powerful tools in difficult times.
4. The Beginning of Unlikely Friendship – Crow and Mouse
The story’s second half presents a beautiful transformation—from suspicion
to trust. Despite their natural differences, Laghupatanaka and Hiranyaka become
friends through respectful dialogue and shared experience. This challenges
fixed ideas of enmity and proves that good intentions can bridge gaps.
5. The Moral Thread – Wisdom Wins in Unity
The entire tale flows with proverbs and teachings from the niti-shastras.
The repeated message is that unity among the weak can defeat even the strong.
True friendship and wise leadership help navigate life's traps—both literal and
figurative.
Conclusion
This story, though simple on the surface, is a layered parable of survival,
morality, and mutual respect. It teaches that leadership is tested in
crisis, friendships are proven through action, and even fate can be challenged
when the wise come together. The crow, the doves, and the mouse symbolize
different virtues—but only together do they overcome danger and grow stronger.
A detailed and
nuanced summary of the story “The Story of Mother Shandili”
and the mouse’s downfall and reflection, which is embedded
within The Panchatantra's Winning of Friends section.
This story is narrated by Hiranyaka the mouse to his friends,
the crow Laghupatanaka and the turtle Mantharaka.
🧵 The
Story of Mother Shandili (and the Fall of Hiranyaka)
(As narrated by the mouse in the Panchatantra)
📜 Context: A Confession by the Mouse
After becoming close friends, the crow Laghupatanaka and the mouse Hiranyaka
travel to the lake to meet the turtle Mantharaka. There, Hiranyaka opens up
about the reason for his recent sorrow. He narrates a personal experience tied
to greed, wealth, fate, and downfall, using Mother
Shandili’s tale as a metaphor for his own.
🛕 The Mouse’s Story Begins: A Spiritual Request
Once, during the monsoon, Hiranyaka sought to live peacefully in a Brahmin's
house to fast and pray undisturbed. The Brahmin agreed. One day, the mouse
overheard a conversation between the Brahmin and his wife (Brahmini) about the
upcoming festival Sankranti, an auspicious time for giving and
collecting alms.
The Brahmin intended to beg in the village, and he asked his wife to also offer
something to a Brahmin. But she angrily protested that they were poor
and she had never had any good food, clothing, or jewelry since their marriage.
💬 Moral Reflection: Giving in Poverty
The Brahmin gently reminded her:
“Even a mouthful, when shared, brings merit. A poor giver earns more respect
than a rich miser. Sweet water from a small well quenches thirst more than
salty ocean water.”
Moved by this wisdom, the Brahmini decided to prepare a dish from sesame
seeds she had. She washed, de-husked, and laid them in the sun to dry.
🐕 Fate Intervenes: The Dog and the
Seeds
As fate would have it, a dog came by and urinated on the sesame
seeds. Horrified and dismayed, the Brahmini lamented her ill fortune.
But unwilling to waste the effort, she resolved to exchange the spoiled
de-husked seeds for unhusked ones at another house.
🔁 The Attempt to Exchange: A Lesson
in Suspicion
Mother Shandili approached a neighbor's house, offering the clean-looking
(but contaminated) sesame seeds in exchange. The lady of the house was willing,
but her wise son, having studied the Kamandaki
Niti-shastra, stopped her:
“No one gives away de-husked sesame unless there's a hidden reason. Be
cautious.”
Shandili was turned away and returned home empty-handed.
🧠 Back to the Present: The Lesson for the Sadhu
This tale is narrated by the Sanyasi (in Hiranyaka’s hearing) to explain a
truth:
“For every action, there is a reason.”
He concludes that the mouse’s extraordinary jumping power
must come from some hidden hoard of food, just as Shandili’s
strange offer had a secret cause. This spurred a plan to find the mouse’s
stash.
🕳️ The Mouse’s Hidden Wealth—and Fall
from Grace
Hiranyaka, aware that his secret was at risk, led his followers home through
a different route to confuse the Sadhu and Sanyasi. But fate had another plan:
they were attacked by a ferocious tomcat. Many mice were
killed or injured. Those who survived blamed Hiranyaka for
leading them into danger.
Back at the temple, the Sanyasi and Sadhu followed the trail of blood and
eventually found Hiranyaka’s hidden hoard of food. They dug it
out and took it to the temple, using it as a pillow.
🧍♂️ Loss, Shame, and Rejection
When Hiranyaka returned and saw his treasure gone, he was shattered. Without
his food hoard, he lost his leaping ability, and thus his
power and pride. His own followers mocked him:
“A leader who cannot protect or benefit us is no leader at all.”
They abandoned him and appointed a new leader. Hiranyaka,
rejected, humiliated, and grieving, reflected:
“Poverty is cursed. A man without riches is ignored, mocked, and rendered
useless.”
🕯️ A Desperate Attempt to Reclaim
Power
At night, Hiranyaka decided to sneak into the temple to
drag away the small bag of food (now used as the Sadhu’s pillow). He risked his
life for it, believing:
“Even if I die, regaining my hoard will restore my honor.”
He tried to pull the bag, but the Sadhu woke up and struck at him.
Fortunately, Hiranyaka escaped.
💬 Reflections on Fate and Wealth
Now completely ruined, Hiranyaka accepts his downfall with bitter wisdom:
“Even gods cannot alter fate. Destiny decides all.
A snake without fangs and a man without money merely exist.”
He laments:
“A rich man who loses his wealth suffers more than one who was always poor.”
He recognizes that his identity, pride, leadership, and influence
were all tied to his wealth—and without it, he is
nothing in the eyes of others.
✨ Key Themes
and Moral Lessons
1. Every
Action Has a Reason
Like Mother Shandili’s suspicious exchange, strange behavior often hides deeper
motives. Be observant and wise.
2. The
Fragile Nature of Power
Hiranyaka’s strength and leadership vanished the moment his hoard was
discovered. Power based on external wealth is temporary.
3. Pride
Comes Before a Fall
Overconfidence in one's position can lead to downfall when fate turns.
4. True
Leadership is Service
Leaders are judged by their ability to protect and benefit others—not just
their own gain.
5. Fate
and Destiny
The story repeatedly emphasizes that fate is powerful and unpredictable. Even
wise beings can be helpless before destiny.
6. Greed
and Attachment
The mouse’s attachment to his hoard leads him to recklessness, symbolizing how greed
can cloud judgment.
🧭 Conclusion
The story of Mother Shandili and the downfall of the mouse Hiranyaka is a layered
narrative that uses humor, irony, and moral reflection to explore the dynamics
of wealth, reputation, fate, and leadership. It reminds us that true
power lies not in riches but in character, wisdom, and resilience—and
that all glory is fleeting when not rooted in lasting virtues.
✅ 10 Two-Mark Questions and
Answers (2 sentences each)
- Why did
the mouse Hiranyaka request to stay with the Brahmin during the monsoon?
He wanted a peaceful place to fast and pray without disturbance. The Brahmin generously allowed him to stay at his home. - What
was the Brahmin’s plan on Sankranti?
He planned to collect alms in a nearby village and asked his wife to also make a charitable offering to another Brahmin. - Why was
the Brahmini angry at her husband?
She expressed frustration that she had received no fine clothes, ornaments, or good food since their marriage. She considered them too poor to give alms. - What
did the Brahmini decide to offer for charity?
She decided to clean and prepare sesame seeds (til) to make a dish for a Brahmin. - What
misfortune happened to the sesame seeds?
While the seeds were drying in the sun, a dog urinated on them, rendering them impure. - What
did Mother Shandili try to do with the spoiled sesame seeds?
She attempted to exchange the husked (but soiled) seeds for unhusked ones at another house. - Why did
the boy in the house stop his mother from making the exchange?
He suspected that Mother Shandili had a hidden reason for offering already husked sesame and advised caution, quoting from the Kamandaki Niti-shastra. - What
did the Sanyasi infer from Shandili’s attempt to trade seeds?
He concluded that all unusual behavior has a hidden reason—just as the mouse’s ability must come from a hidden food stash. - How did
the Sadhu and the Sanyasi discover the mouse’s hoard?
They followed the blood trail after an attack on the mouse’s group and dug near the hole, uncovering the hidden food stock. - What
happened to the mouse after losing his hoard?
He became weak, lost his jumping power and leadership, and was mocked and abandoned by his own followers.
✅ 5 Five-Mark Questions and
Answers (Paragraph Form)
- What is
the significance of the story of Mother Shandili in the context of the
main story?
The story of Mother Shandili is used by the Sanyasi to explain a broader truth: every action has a hidden motive. Just as Shandili tried to exchange contaminated sesame seeds and was suspected because of her unusual behavior, the Sanyasi inferred that the mouse's incredible jumping ability must be due to a hidden hoard of food. This short tale helps transition the narrative from spiritual discussion to action, as it motivates the Sadhu and Sanyasi to locate the mouse's store. It connects intellect with intuition, reinforcing the Panchatantra’s emphasis on practical wisdom. - Describe
how fate played a role in the downfall of Hiranyaka.
Despite Hiranyaka’s intelligence, his downfall was triggered by fate. When he tried to mislead the Sadhu and Sanyasi by choosing a different path home, he encountered a deadly tomcat that killed and injured many of his followers. This unexpected attack, followed by the loss of his food hoard, shows that even the wisest are vulnerable to fate. Hiranyaka himself admits that no one can escape what destiny has in store. The story teaches that effort can fail when fate turns hostile. - What
moral values are revealed through the Brahmin and his wife’s conversation?
The Brahmin displays virtue, compassion, and philosophical wisdom, insisting that even the poor should share what little they have. His wife initially shows selfishness and frustration, but eventually agrees to give something for charity. Their dialogue reflects the Indian cultural emphasis on selfless giving (daan) and moral duty, even amid poverty. It also introduces the core idea that richness lies in spirit, not just wealth. - How did
the mouse’s followers react after his downfall, and what does this reveal
about human nature?
After the loss of his food hoard, Hiranyaka lost his strength and his prestige. His followers mocked his weakness, abandoned him, and even chose a new leader. This shows how loyalty often fades in times of hardship. The story satirically reflects human tendencies to follow power, not principles, and how status is often linked to material possession, not character. - What
inner transformation does Hiranyaka experience after his loss?
Initially proud and powerful, Hiranyaka becomes humble, reflective, and resigned after losing his hoard. He realizes the temporary nature of wealth and position. Though he feels humiliated and rejected, he does not seek revenge, but rather decides to reclaim his dignity by reclaiming his food, even at the risk of death. This marks a shift from ego-driven leadership to existential understanding—a core theme in Indian philosophy.
📝 Essay Question and Answer
Q: How does the story of Mother Shandili and the
mouse Hiranyaka portray the themes of wealth, fate, leadership, and moral
decline?
Introduction
The tale of Mother Shandili, embedded within the downfall story of the
mouse Hiranyaka in the Panchatantra, is a rich narrative that explores
how greed, fate, and the loss of wealth can lead to a fall in status and
personal crisis. It also shows how intelligence must be tempered with
humility and how the support of followers depends on success rather
than virtue.
1. The Parable of Mother Shandili – Wisdom Through
Suspicion
Mother Shandili’s attempt to exchange de-husked sesame seeds reveals a
profound lesson: strange behavior often hides deeper intentions. This story
serves as a metaphor for identifying hidden truths—just as her seed exchange
hinted at impurity, the Sanyasi applies this wisdom to discover the mouse’s
hoard. This underscores the importance of critical thinking and deduction.
2. Hiranyaka’s Wealth and Power
Hiranyaka’s strength and influence stem from a hidden store of food. His
high jumps, confidence, and leadership over the other mice are all tied to his material
security. The story illustrates that wealth often defines social status,
and losing it can shake one's very identity.
3. The Role of Fate in Decline
Despite his efforts to avoid the Sadhu and Sanyasi, Hiranyaka walks into
a tragedy—a tomcat attack. This represents fate’s unpredictable power,
as even the clever fall when fortune turns against them. Fate strips him of his
resources, followers, and prestige, emphasizing the Panchatantra’s
consistent message that no one can escape destiny.
4. Leadership and Loyalty – A Satirical Lens
Hiranyaka’s followers abandon him as soon as he becomes weak. Their
loyalty vanishes, and they appoint a new leader, highlighting the
superficiality of leadership based only on wealth and utility. The tale
satirizes how respect is often based not on values but on perceived advantage.
5. Realization and Acceptance
After experiencing humiliation and loneliness, Hiranyaka contemplates
reclaiming his past glory. He resolves to risk his life for his stolen hoard,
not out of greed, but to restore his status and sense of self. His final
words—accepting destiny—reveal a deeper transformation from pride to
philosophical acceptance.
Conclusion
The intertwined stories of Mother Shandili and Hiranyaka form a rich
moral lesson about the fragility of power, the role of fate, the shallowness
of social loyalty, and the deeper realization that wealth cannot define
self-worth. Through satire, symbolism, and reflection, the Panchatantra
delivers a timeless message about the true sources of strength and the
inevitable ebb and flow of fortune.
Here is a detailed, nuanced summary of the story of “Get-what’s-coming-to-you”,
which is part of the Panchatantra (Winning of Friends), as narrated by
Hiranyaka the mouse to his friends.
📖 
THE STORY O,F THE MERCHANT'S SON
(A tale of fate, wisdom, and
unexpected reward)
🌇 Introduction: A Book with One Verse
In a town, a merchant named Sagaradatta had a son. One day,
the son purchased a book for 100 rupees, which contained only
a single verse:
“You always get what’s coming to you.
Even the gods can’t oppose the laws of destiny.
And so, I regret nothing, and nothing astonishes me.
What destiny gives me, no one can take away.”
When Sagaradatta saw the book, he was furious. Enraged that his son had
wasted money on just one verse, he banished him from the house,
telling him never to return.
🚶♂️ The Young Man Sets Out
The son, heartbroken but composed, wandered to another city. When people
asked for his name or origin, he simply replied with the verse:
“You always get what’s coming to you.”
Eventually, everyone began calling him “Get-what’s-coming-to-you”.
👸 The Princess and the Mistaken
Identity
At a city festival, Princess Chandravati saw a handsome
prince and instantly fell in love, stricken by Kamadeva’s (God of love)
arrow. She sent her lady-in-waiting to summon the
prince, inviting him to climb into her palace room by a rope she’d hang from
her window at night.
Although tempted, the prince refused to meet the princess
that way, fearing it would dishonor both of them and offend divine and social
laws.
🧗♂️ Enter “Get-what’s-coming-to-you”
That night, “Get-what’s-coming-to-you” wandered near the palace and saw the
rope. Out of curiosity, he climbed up. The princess, thinking he was the
prince, welcomed him with food, drink, and affection. But he said nothing,
except:
“You always get what’s coming to you.”
Realizing in the light that he was not the prince, the princess became
furious and threw him out.
🛕 The Temple and a Second Mistake
He found shelter in a dilapidated temple, where a night
watchman had secretly arranged to meet a courtesan. Wanting to avoid
suspicion, the watchman sent “Get-what’s-coming-to-you” to rest at his own
house.
But he entered the wrong room, where the watchman’s
daughter Vinayavati was waiting for her lover. Believing him
to be her beloved, she married him in Gandharva style (love
marriage without witnesses). When he again said his only line, she realized her
mistake and threw him out.
🐘 A Heroic Act at a Wedding
He came upon a marriage procession where the bride,
magnificently dressed, sat on a platform waiting for the groom, Varakeerti.
Suddenly, a mad elephant charged into the scene. Everyone
fled—except the bride, who froze in terror.
“Get-what’s-coming-to-you” bravely grabbed a nail from the platform,
held the bride’s hand to reassure her, and stabbed the elephant. By luck, the
elephant fled.
👑 The Aftermath: From Outcast to Hero
When the groom returned and saw another man holding the bride’s hand, he
accused her father of betrayal. The father turned to his daughter, who
declared:
“This man saved my life. I will marry no one else.”
This sparked a night-long debate, which drew attention from
the king, Princess Chandravati, and Vinayavati,
all of whom arrived.
The king asked the young man, “Who are you?” He simply replied:
“You always get what’s coming to you.”
Each woman then recognized him and spoke a line from the
verse:
·
The princess: “Even the gods can't oppose the
laws of destiny.”
·
Vinayavati: “And so, I regret nothing and
nothing astonishes me.”
·
The bride: “What destiny gives me, no one can
take away.”
🎉 The Final Revelation and Rewards
The king demanded a full explanation. Once the stories were told, he was
deeply impressed. He:
·
Married his daughter to
“Get-what’s-coming-to-you”.
·
Gave him a thousand villages and royal
ornaments.
·
Made him heir to the throne (as
the king had no sons).
Both Vinayavati and the bride were also married to him with appropriate
ceremonies and dowries. Eventually, the young man brought his parents to live
with him, and they lived happily ever after.
📚 Moral and Philosophical Reflection
The entire story illustrates the power of fate, and how faith,
courage, and composure can lead to surprising rewards, even in the
face of rejection and humiliation.
🌟 Key Themes and Lessons:
1. Fate
is Supreme:
Even gods cannot change destiny—this message is reinforced throughout the
story.
2. Steadfastness
in Adversity:
The young man remains calm, repeating his verse, and is never shaken by
setbacks.
3. Mistakes
Can Lead to Miracles:
His unintended entry into the lives of the three women becomes a symbol
of cosmic alignment.
4. Virtue
is Rewarded:
His bravery at the wedding wins him not just a bride but a kingdom.
5. Perspective
on Possession:
What is destined for you will find its way, no matter the path.
🪶 Closing Words from the Mouse
Hiranyaka ends the tale by connecting it to his own suffering. Like
“Get-what’s-coming-to-you,” he too faced loss and rejection. He justifies his
decision to leave the temple with his friend Laghupatanaka (the crow) and finds
hope in the wisdom of fate.
The turtle Mantharaka affirms the crow’s loyalty and
comforts the mouse, reminding him that wealth is temporary,
but true friendship and wisdom are lasting.
✅ 10 Two-Mark Questions and Answers (2 sentences
each)
1. Why
was the merchant angry with his son?
The merchant Sagaradatta was furious when his son paid 100 rupees for a book
that contained only one verse. He considered it a foolish waste and expelled
him from the house.
2. What
phrase did the merchant’s son keep repeating?
He always said, “You always get what’s coming to you.” It became his
only response to everyone, and soon people started calling him by that name.
3. How
did Princess Chandravati fall in love?
During a festival, she saw a handsome prince and was immediately struck by
Kamadeva’s arrow of love. She sent her maid to arrange a secret meeting.
4. Why
didn’t the prince meet the princess?
Though tempted, the prince decided not to sneak into the palace, thinking it
was dishonorable and could lead to humiliation.
5. How
did “Get-what’s-coming-to-you” enter the palace?
He saw a rope hanging from the palace window, climbed it out of curiosity, and
unknowingly entered the princess’s room.
6. What
did Vinayavati do when she mistook him for her lover?
In the dark, she thought he was her lover and married him according to
Gandharva rites. When she realized the truth, she threw him out.
7. How
did he save the bride from the elephant?
When a mad elephant appeared during a wedding, he reassured the bride and
courageously jabbed the elephant with a nail, making it flee.
8. What
made the bride choose “Get-what’s-coming-to-you” as her husband?
She declared that he saved her life when everyone else ran away and refused to
marry anyone else.
9. How
did the princess and Vinayavati recognize him later?
When they heard him say “You always get what’s coming to you,” they
remembered their earlier encounters and recited the rest of the verse.
10. What
rewards did “Get-what’s-coming-to-you” receive in the end?
He was married to three women, gifted a thousand villages, and was made
heir-apparent to the king’s throne.
✅ 5 Five-Mark Questions and Answers (Paragraph Form)
1. Why
did the merchant’s son earn the name “Get-what’s-coming-to-you”?
After being banished by his father for buying a one-verse book, the merchant’s
son went to a new city. Whenever anyone asked for his name or origin, he simply
replied, “You always get what’s coming to you.” Over time, this became his
identity, and people started calling him by that phrase. His unwavering
repetition of that line turned into both his name and his destiny.
2. How
did the mistaken identities lead to unexpected twists in the story?
Throughout the story, people mistake “Get-what’s-coming-to-you” for someone
else. The princess believes he is the prince, Vinayavati thinks he is her
lover, and he accidentally enters both situations. These mistaken encounters
seem unfortunate at first, but ultimately they contribute to his destiny. The
story uses coincidence to show how fate works in mysterious
ways.
3. Describe
the wedding incident involving the elephant and how it changed everything.
At the bride's ceremony, a mad elephant attacked, causing chaos. While everyone
fled, only the bride remained frozen in fear. “Get-what’s-coming-to-you” acted
bravely, calmed her, and chased the elephant away. This heroic act made the
bride choose him as her husband and led to a major turning point in his life.
His fate shifted from being a wanderer to being a respected hero.
4. How
did the repeated verse reflect the theme of destiny?
The verse served as both a prophecy and a philosophical truth. It states that
destiny is inevitable and unchangeable, even by the gods. The events in the
story—coincidences, mistaken identities, rewards—mirror this theme. Each time
“Get-what’s-coming-to-you” says the verse, the characters and readers are
reminded that fate governs life’s outcomes.
5. What
role did the king play in resolving the conflicts in the story?
The king arrived when the wedding dispute arose and noticed the peculiar
behavior of the three women, who all quoted the same verse. He investigated the
situation with patience and wisdom, heard the full truth from everyone, and
rewarded “Get-what’s-coming-to-you” appropriately. His role reflects that of a just
ruler, who recognizes merit and upholds fairness over formal
arrangements.
📝 Essay Question and Answer
Q: How does the story of “Get-what’s-coming-to-you” illustrate the
themes of fate, fortune, and identity in the Panchatantra?
Introduction
The tale of “Get-what’s-coming-to-you” is one of the most whimsical yet
philosophically rich stories in the Panchatantra. At its heart lies a
single Sanskrit verse that the protagonist lives by—a mantra on fate, destiny,
and divine order. What begins as a tale of rejection turns into a story of remarkable
reversals, emphasizing that what is meant to be will always find its
way.
1. Fate as the Central Force
The protagonist’s entire journey is guided by fate, not
effort or planning. From being cast out by his father to climbing into the
princess’s room, and finally heroically saving a bride—each event seems
accidental. Yet, these accidents are actually fated turns. The
story shows that destiny often works in disguise.
2. The Power of a Simple Philosophy
His only reply, “You always get what’s coming to you,” seems
foolish to others, but it protects him from arrogance, fear, and regret. He
never tries to control outcomes but flows with events. This simple line turns
out to be the key to his success, as it makes him known and
remembered.
3. Mistaken Identity and Unexpected Reward
The protagonist is mistaken for a prince and a lover—situations that usually
bring shame—but in his case, they lead to marriage, heroism, and kingship.
These mix-ups symbolize that destiny works in strange ways.
What appears as a misstep is sometimes the first step toward greatness.
4. Justice and Wisdom Prevail
The story ends with a king who listens and does not judge based on status.
He sees truth in character and courage, not appearances. His wise judgment
reinforces the idea that those chosen by fate will eventually receive
their due, no matter how delayed or indirect the path may be.
5. A Story of Identity and Belonging
The young man was rejected by his father and wandered namelessly. But in
time, he gains three wives, a kingdom, and an
honored identity—all because he remained true to himself and
accepted life with calmness. This reflects the Panchatantra’s moral universe: patience,
character, and destiny shape true identity.
Conclusion
The story of “Get-what’s-coming-to-you” is a brilliant exploration of how
fate governs life’s journey. Rich in irony, wisdom, and humor, the tale teaches
that regret and astonishment are pointless in the face of
destiny. Those who accept life’s turns with grace may find that destiny rewards
them more generously than they imagined.
The Story of Somilaka
A detailed and nuanced summary of the story of Somilaka
the Weaver and his three friends—the crow, the mouse, the
turtle, and the stag—as told in the second Tantra of the Panchatantra:
"Winning of Friends."
🧵🌿
The Story of Somilaka: A Weaver's Search for Wealth and Wisdom
🌟 Introduction: A Gifted but Poor Weaver
In a certain town lived Somilaka, a highly skilled weaver
who made cloth fit for kings. However, despite his superior craftsmanship, he
earned only enough for his basic needs. In contrast, other less
talented weavers around him were thriving and becoming rich.
Frustrated, Somilaka resolved to leave his town and earn wealth elsewhere.
His wife, however, cautioned him, saying:
“What is not destined will never happen, no matter the effort. Destiny and
action go hand in hand, like light and shade.”
But Somilaka disagreed. He believed:
“Even if destiny provides food, you must stretch out your hand to eat it.
Success requires effort, not passive waiting.”
He argued that hard work invites the goddess Lakshmi (wealth),
whereas idleness only leads to disappointment. With that determination, he set
out for the city of Vardhamanapura.
💰 First Journey: Earning but Losing
Somilaka worked hard in Vardhamanapura for three years,
earning 300 gold coins. On his way home, while resting on a
banyan tree, he dreamt of two figures—Destiny and Action—arguing:
·
Action blamed Destiny: “Why did
you take away his earnings?”
·
Destiny replied: “He was
destined only to earn enough for food and clothing. You rewarded his effort,
but I determined how much he would retain.”
When Somilaka awoke, his gold was gone. He was disheartened
but resolved to try again.
💰💰 Second Journey: Greater Effort,
Same Result
Returning to Vardhamanapura, Somilaka worked another year and earned 500
gold coins. On his second homeward journey, he tried to avoid resting,
afraid of losing his gold again. But he overheard the same celestial argument
between Action and Destiny—and once more, his money vanished.
Feeling utterly defeated, he decided to end his
life. He fashioned a noose from grass and was about to hang himself
when a heavenly voice—Destiny—intervened.
Destiny explained that she had taken his wealth because he was not fated to
have more than his daily needs, but she admired his hard work. She offered him
a boon of his choice.
🤔 Test of Choice: Two Men, Two Lives
When Somilaka asked for money, Destiny questioned, “What will you do with it
if you can’t enjoy it?” She then offered him an experiment:
“Observe two men: Guptadhana, who has wealth but enjoys
nothing, and Upabhuktadhana, who spends all he has and lives
joyfully.”
Somilaka agreed.
🏚️ Guptadhana: The Miser
Guptadhana and his family begrudged Somilaka's presence.
They treated him poorly at dinner and slept restlessly. During the night,
Destiny and Action reappeared and discussed how Guptadhana was fated to
hoard but never enjoy. The next day, Guptadhana fell ill with cholera.
🏠 Upabhuktadhana: The Joyful Spender
In contrast, Upabhuktadhana welcomed Somilaka warmly, gave
him fresh clothes, food, and rest—even taking credit from a grocer
to offer hospitality. Destiny explained that while Upabhuktadhana was not
wealthy, he lived with generosity and happiness.
The next morning, a messenger from the king brought money
to Upabhuktadhana—his kindness had attracted fortune.
Realizing the difference, Somilaka chose to live like Upabhuktadhana—to
enjoy money, not just possess it. Destiny granted this wish.
🐢🦌🦅🐭 Lessons from the
Jungle: Friendship and Fate
The story transitions into a second narrative, where
Somilaka’s tale becomes a backdrop to a story about true friendship and
survival. The weaver’s fate links with Laghupatanaka
(crow), Hiranyaka (mouse), Mantharaka
(turtle), and Chitranga (stag), whose bonds are tested by
hunters and danger.
When the stag is caught in a net, the friends rescue him through
teamwork. Later, the turtle is captured, and the crow devises a clever
plan involving a fake dead stag to trick the hunter and free
the turtle.
The unity of the four animals demonstrates that friendship and
intelligence can overcome fate, even when it is hostile.
🧠 Morals
and Philosophical Insights
1. Destiny
vs Action:
Hard work is essential, but destiny controls the final outcome.
What is not meant for you, will not stay with you—yet effort is still
respected.
2. Wealth
and Contentment:
It’s better to enjoy modest means than hoard riches you never
use. Guptadhana dies miserably, while Upabhuktadhana finds
joy and generosity.
3. True
Friendship:
Friends like Mantharaka, who risk everything, are priceless.
Emotional bonds matter more than wealth or status.
4. Wisdom
in Action:
The story shows that clever thinking, like the crow’s plan to
save the turtle, can outsmart even the gravest threat.
5. Greed
Leads to Misery:
Hoarding wealth without purpose is like collecting mud—eventually,
it will bring neither joy nor meaning.
🌟 Conclusion
Somilaka’s story is more than a parable about wealth—it is a profound reflection
on the nature of human effort, destiny, and joy. It teaches that living
with contentment, generosity, and friendship is greater than material
riches alone. The balance of action and destiny, when understood wisely, leads
to inner peace.
✅ 10 Two-Mark Questions (2–3 sentence answers)
1. Who
was Somilaka and what was his problem?
Somilaka was a skilled weaver whose cloth was fit for royalty, yet he remained
poor. Despite his talent, he earned only enough for food and clothes, while
less talented weavers became rich.
2. Why
did Somilaka decide to leave his town?
Frustrated by his poverty and the success of others, he believed that a new
place might offer better opportunities to earn money.
3. What
advice did Somilaka's wife give him about destiny?
She believed that destiny determines success, saying that even with effort, one
cannot earn what is not fated.
4. What
was Somilaka’s belief about hard work?
Somilaka insisted that success required effort, arguing that even if food is
destined, one must stretch out their hand to eat it.
5. What
happened after he earned 300 gold coins on his first journey?
While sleeping in a tree, he dreamt of Destiny and Action arguing. Upon waking,
he found that his gold had mysteriously vanished.
6. What
did the voice from the sky offer Somilaka?
Destiny, impressed by his effort, offered him any boon he wished, though she
reminded him he wasn’t destined to enjoy riches.
7. Who
were Guptadhana and Upabhuktadhana?
Guptadhana was a wealthy miser who never enjoyed his riches. Upabhuktadhana was
generous, lived happily, and spent what he had, though he had little.
8. What
did Somilaka observe at Guptadhana’s house?
He was treated poorly, given food reluctantly, and noticed that Guptadhana
later fell ill due to his stingy and joyless lifestyle.
9. How
was Somilaka treated at Upabhuktadhana’s house?
He was welcomed warmly, given good food and clothing, even if the host had to
borrow money to do so.
10. What
final decision did Somilaka make?
He chose to live like Upabhuktadhana—enjoying his money rather than hoarding
it—and Destiny granted him this wish.
✅ 5 Five-Mark Questions (Paragraph answers)
1. Why
did Somilaka's first two attempts to carry money home fail?
After earning gold coins through honest labor, Somilaka lost his earnings
mysteriously both times while returning through the forest. These incidents
were linked to the celestial argument between Destiny and Action—Destiny
allowed only essential needs to be fulfilled, and not more. This showed how
fate can override even the most diligent effort unless it is aligned with one’s
karmic destiny.
2. What
philosophical debate is presented through the dialogue between Destiny and
Action?
The story dramatizes the conflict between effort (Action) and fate
(Destiny). Action claims that effort should lead to success, while
Destiny insists on maintaining a cosmic balance, limiting individuals to their
allotted share. This reflects the age-old debate in Indian thought on karma vs.
free will.
3. Describe
Somilaka's experience at Guptadhana’s house.
Guptadhana’s family treated Somilaka with hostility and reluctance. Though
wealthy, Guptadhana shared nothing joyfully and suffered from ill health. This
experience revealed that wealth without generosity leads to
isolation and misery.
4. How
did Upabhuktadhana’s hospitality impact Somilaka's decision?
In contrast to Guptadhana, Upabhuktadhana treated Somilaka with love, despite
having little. His joyful spirit, generosity, and eventual unexpected reward
from the king taught Somilaka that true prosperity lies in using wealth
for happiness, not hoarding.
5. What
final moral does the story of Somilaka teach?
Somilaka learns that wealth is meaningless if not enjoyed or shared.
Destiny can control what we receive, but the way we use it defines the quality
of our life. The wise choose contentment, friendship, and purposeful living
over blind pursuit of riches.
📝 Essay Question
Q: What are the main moral lessons in the story of Somilaka, and
how do they reflect the values of the Panchatantra?
Introduction
The story of Somilaka, the poor weaver, presents a deep
reflection on the tension between destiny and human effort,
and explores the meaning of wealth, contentment, and generosity.
Through his journey and observations, Somilaka—and the reader—are led to
discover truths that align with the values upheld throughout the Panchatantra.
1. Effort vs Destiny
The dialogue between Destiny and Action represents the
philosophical struggle of whether fate controls life, or
whether personal effort can override it. Though Destiny limits
Somilaka’s wealth, his sincere effort is still recognized and rewarded, proving
that both fate and effort matter in life.
2. The Futility of Hoarded Wealth
Guptadhana symbolizes those who possess wealth but never enjoy or share it.
Despite having riches, his miserly behavior makes him sick and unhappy. The
story illustrates that wealth without joy or generosity is no better
than poverty.
3. The Joy of Generosity
In contrast, Upabhuktadhana lives simply but cheerfully. His spirit of
sharing makes him happier and even brings him unexpected fortune. His example
teaches that true wealth is in the experience of giving and enjoying
life.
4. Contentment as the Source of Strength
As the turtle Mantharaka later reflects, sages, snakes, and even elephants
live contentedly with little. Somilaka learns that greed leads to
disappointment, while contentment brings peace and dignity.
Wealth is best used when it serves one’s needs and uplifts others.
5. Friendship Over Fortune
The story is framed by Somilaka’s connection to his animal friends—the
mouse, turtle, crow, and stag. Their loyalty, unity, and efforts to save one
another demonstrate that true friendship is more valuable than gold.
Conclusion
The tale of Somilaka is a moral journey from desire to wisdom. It teaches
that while effort is necessary, destiny limits what we
retain, and happiness comes not from what we own, but from how
we live. Wealth, when used wisely and joyfully, becomes a blessing;
when hoarded, a burden.
Posts
No comments: