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The Foolish Turtle

Moral of the story – ALWAYS LISTEN TO YOUR WELL WISHERS ADVICE.

The Foolish Turtle

Image source – Panchtantra

Once upon a time in a jungle there was a small lake and there lived a turtle and two swans. They were very good friends and spent most of their time telling stories to each other. 

Suddenly one year there was a drought in that jungle. Everything went dry including their lake. Some of the animals left in search of water. The turtle and the swans were also worried. They decided to find a solution to this problem but every effort went in vain.

One day one of the swans said, “Our lake is almost dry. How can we live without water?” Suddenly turtle had an idea and he said, “Don’t worry. We will find a way out, I have an excellent plan. First of all you two find a lake full of water. Then bring me a stick. I’ll hold on to the middle of the stick and both of you hold the two ends – and carry me to the new lake”. Hearing this the swans got very happy but after a while they cautioned him, “Your plan is too good but while we are flying, take care that you should not open your mouth, otherwise you will fall down and die.” The turtle promised to keep quiet throughout his journey.

Panchtantra - The Foolish Turtle

Image source – Panchtantra

The swans found the lake and came back to the turtle with a stick. They said , “Now you catch hold of this stick so that we can go.” Carrying the turtle the swans flew away to a new place. They traveled over hills and valleys and soon one of the swans told the other swan that we are entering a town which is at a little distance from here.

As they flew over the town, people on the roads saw them and began to exclaim, “Look above at those clever birds. They’re carrying something – It’s a turtle!” Soon a crowd gathered below them and everybody was talking about the swan & the turtle.

The turtle when heard the noises coming from down below he was surprised.

Panchtantra - The Foolish Turtle

Image source – Panchtantra

Forgetting that he doesn’t has to speak he said, “What is all that excitement about? Me?” Oh… the poor fellow forgot to keep shut and fell down on the ground and died.

One of the men among the crowd said to his friend, ” What a luck! Let’s cook this turtle for dinner tonight. Turtle meat tastes very delicious”. The swans were very sorry for their friend but they couldn’t help it out. So they flew away to their new location.

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