In the annals of Panchatantra tales, there is a delightful tale known as “The Watchful Monkey and the Trusting Dogs,” which has been a popular bedtime story for children worldwide.
Once upon a time, in a small town of Sundarpur, lived a young, energetic monkey named Micky. Micky was playful but lonely, as he was the only monkey in the entire town. He spent most of his time watching the children playing and yearned for companionship.
One day, Micky noticed a group of stray dogs who appeared to be happy and content, always playing together. Micky thought, “I could be a part of their group. Perhaps, they can become my friends.” So, he approached the group with a friendly smile and said, “Hello, friends! I’m Micky. Could I join your group?”
The dogs looked at each other and then back at Micky. “Why should we let you join?” the largest dog, named Bruno, asked. “What good can you bring to our group?”
Micky, who was always quick-witted, replied, “I live high up in the trees. From there, I can watch for any dangers approaching and warn you.”
The dogs found this appealing and allowed Micky to join them. As days passed, Micky and the dogs became good friends. He would play with them during the day, and at night, he would climb up his tree and keep a watch.
One night, Micky spotted a pack of wolves approaching. He immediately shouted, “Danger! Wolves are coming!” Upon hearing this, the dogs quickly hid themselves. When the wolves arrived, they found no dogs, only Micky on the tree.
“Why are you screaming, Monkey?” the leader of the wolves growled.
“I was practising my singing,” Micky lied.
The wolves, uninterested, moved on. Once they were out of sight, Micky called out, “All clear!” The dogs came out of hiding, thankful to Micky for his timely warning.
From that day onwards, Micky was accepted and loved by all the dogs. They played together, shared food, and lived happily. Micky was no longer a lonely monkey but a member of a lively group.
The story of Micky teaches us that we gain friends not merely by asking for companionship but by offering something valuable to others. This principle of ‘Mitra Laabha’ or ‘Gaining Friends’ from Panchtantra shows that genuine friendship is built on mutual benefit and cooperation.
