Category Archives: short story

THE STORY OF GARUDA

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    The tale of Garuda starts with the story of Rishi Kashyapa. The ancient Puranas mention Rishi Kashyapa and his genealogy, numerous times. In the Vishnu Purana, Rishi Kashyapa marries thirteen daughters of Daksha Prajapati. Scholar Vettam Mani concludes in his research that Kashyapa may have married more women, thirteen of whom were daughters of Daksha. The story of Garuda originates from the two wives of Rishi Kashyap named Kadru and Vinata, who were daughters of Daksha Prajapati.

    Both the sisters were very fond of Rishi Kashyapa. One day they expressed their desire to marry him and the devout rishi agreed. Thereafter, they both served the rishi with piety and devotion.

    After years of blissful matrimony, one day the Rishi called his wives and expressed his desire to offer them a boon each. Kadru immediately entreated Rishi Kashyap to bless her with a thousand children, each strong and potent. She desired that they should be fearsome, lustrous, and powerful creatures, and as her children, they should be capable of, vanquishing their foes and striking terror in the hearts of their enemies.

    ‘So be it!’ Replied Rishi Kashyapa and granted her the wish immediately. Soon a thousand eggs appeared from Kadru’s womb. She cared for them along with her maids and incubated them in a warm and cosy place. And she eagerly awaited the birth of her many children.

    On the other hand, a meek Vinata bade her time with equanimity. She carried on with her daily duties, prayers, and rituals and continued to seek the blessings of Rishi Kashyapa but did not ask for anything special. The only thing she wished was that her children, balance the effects, brought about, by Kadru’s children. They should give strength, remove fear, and brighten the world.

    Rishi Kashyapa thought long and hard about Vinata’s unborn children. He was reminded of the blessings of the thumb-sized Valakhilya sages. He told Vinata that she would bear two children, who are destined to be the lords of the winged creatures. The Rishi also said they would achieve greatness and be worshipped in all three Lokas. Soon, two eggs sprang forth from the womb of Vinata. She cared for her eggs and showered all her affection and attention on them. Time flew and soon five hundred years passed in no time.

    In the meantime, the eggs of Kadru began to hatch. Snakes and serpents of all sizes, forms, and colours began to emerge from these eggs. They hissed and spewed venom around. The attendants of Kadru got terrified and started running helter-skelter.

    Meanwhile, Vinata kept eagerly thinking about her eggs. She too was anxiously waiting for her children to be born soon. She was overwhelmed with the feeling of fear, impatience and jealousy. One day when she couldn’t hold herself, she picked up an egg and cracked it open. And from the egg, emerged, a bird-like child. It was not fully developed. But it had a brilliant radiance and shined like God Surya himself. The newborn was not pleased with his mother’s behaviour. So he foretold that an unfortunate circumstance awaited her. He said, ‘Dear Mother! As a result of your impatience, you will suffer as a slave.’ In his later days, the newborn Aruna was appointed as the charioteer of Surya, the Sun God.

    One day, Ucchaisravas, the seven-headed celestial stallion, while galloping across the planets reached where Kadru and Vinata lived. Playfully, Kadru asked Vinata if the horse’s tail was black or white. And they argued with each other and finally placed a bet.

    ‘I say the tail is black. If what I say is true, you have to be my slave forever.’ Said Kadru. ‘No, the tail is white. And if I win the bet, you shall remain my slave forever.’ Added Vinata.

    The two sisters then agreed to check the horse’s tail the following day. Meanwhile, Kadru summoned her children and ordered them to do something deceitful. She directed that the snakes coil themselves around the tail of Ucchaisravas, the celestial steed, to make it appear black in colour. The snakes hesitated, making Kadru angry. She cursed them for disobeying their mother’s command and conveyed that they all shall be consumed by fire in a yagna.

    Fearing the wrath of their mother, the snakes agreed to accede to her command and the following day, they coiled themselves around the tail of Ucchaisravas, making the tail appear black.

    ‘Look the tail is black. I’ve won the bet.’ Shrilled Kadru. Having lost the bet Vinata agreed to become the slave of Kadru.

    One fine day, the second egg of Vinata began to hatch. A mighty bird emerged from it. His lustre was bright, and he engulfed everything around him in flames. His eyes were like lightning. He grew in size very quickly and covered everything, even the skies. All those around him cowered in fear and ran for help. Agni and the Devas, and the learned Rishis assembled around the divine bird and praised him. They asked him to contain his divine form to which Pakshiraja, the king of birds agreed.

     He then took the form of a Kinnara—half-bird and half-man and took to the skies in search of his mother Vinata and flew right into her arms where he found her living with Kadru and his serpentine cousins. Vinata was both happy and sad to see her son. Happy to see him alive and well. Sorry that they were bound by an old bet because of which they had to serve the snakes.

    One day, Kadru ordered that she and her children be carried to the island of Ramaniyaka. Vinata lifted Kadru on her shoulders, while the snakes climbed onto Pakshiraja’s back. They were then flown across the seas to the enchanting island. The Pakshiraja flew too close to the sun so the snakes got scorched. They fainted and began to fall down. Kadru prayed to Indra, who provided showers that gave the snakes some respite. Soon they all reached the island of Ramaniyaka safely.

    On the island, the snakes kept ordering the mighty bird to do many tasks. This confused Vinata’s son. He asked his mother why these snakes were ordering him around. Vinata narrated to her son, the story of how she was enslaved by the bet she made in haste. Vinata’s son then requested the snakes to liberate his mother and him. The snakes in return demanded that he bring the pot of nectar held by the Devas in exchange for their freedom. A determined Vainatheya (Vinata’s son Garuda) then took his mother’s blessings and set out for the tough task.

    As he flew past many lands, his eyes fell on Rishi Kashyapa, his father. The majestic bird landed in front of the Rishi to pay his respects. He informed him of his quest to bring back the pot of Amrita (nectar). Rishi Kashyapa blessed him and wished him success in the onerous mission. Pakshiraj then asked his father.

    ‘Where can I find some food to eat? Rishi Kashyapa replied, ‘Near the lake, you’ll find an elephant and a tortoise perpetually quarrelling with each other. Go eat them up. They were sages Vibhavasu and Supratika in their previous birth. By eating them up you will liberate them from their respective curse. The mighty bird took flight and promised to do his father’s bidding. He soared towards the lake and spotted his prey. In one fell swoop, he grabbed the elephant and tortoise – one in each claw. The mighty bird then went in search of a solitary spot to devour his catch. He chanced upon a big banyan tree on which he landed.

    The weight of Pakshiraj along with the elephant and the tortoise broke the branch. Pakshiraj realised that the branch had thousands of little sages on it. They were known as Valakhilyas. They were engaged in deep penance while hanging upside down. To avoid injury to them, the emperor of birds caught the branch with his beak and flew further. The sages opened their eyes and saw this feat of strength.

    They named the mighty son of Vinata, “Garuda”, one who is able to bear heavy weights. Garuda brought the sages down safely and they blessed him with success in his mission to obtain the pot of nectar. Garuda then proceeded to the peaks of the Gandhamadana hills. There he disposed of the remains of the elephant and tortoise and freed them from their curse. Thereafter, he began his journey towards heaven in pursuit of the pot of nectar.

    As Garuda approached the kingdom of Indra, many ill omens began to appear in front of the Devas. Meteors began to fall. Thunderstorms appeared out of nowhere. The weapons held by the Devas began to throb. Filled with anxiety about the well-being of the world, Indra asked his guru Brihaspati, what is happening. And upon hearing the response from his guru, Indra was grief-stricken. He asked his learned guru.

    ‘What do these ill omens foretell? The guru replied.

    ‘That it’s time for you to pay for those ignoble acts that you committed many years ago.’ And he reminded. ‘A long time ago, you … mighty Indra, while you were once assisting Rishi Kashyapa in a yagna where, apart from you, many other learned rishis such as Gandharvas, Devas and others were also present to assist him. Among them, there were the Valakhilyas also. They were large in number but were only as big as a thumb. With all your might, you carried a massive pile of Samith (wood for the fire in the yagna) from the forest, but the Valakhilyas collapsed from the burden of only a single Palasha Danda (peepal tree twig) that they were carrying for the yagna. You laughed at the poor plight of those little sages … “Ha-Ha-Ha. Look at you, struggling with a twig!”

    This offended the Valakhilyas very much. So they vowed to perform a separate yagna to create another Indra. And they cursed you, wishing that your slayer would be born as Rishi Kashyapa’s son. When you heard about their vows you were terrified. So you ran to Rishi Kashyapa to explain what had happened. Kashyapa lent a patient ear but warned that he would not be able to stop the powerful Valakhilyas from doing so. But he gave an assurance to you that he would work out a compromise. When Rishi Kashyap met Valakhilyas he requested them to drop the yagna for creating a new Indra. But he assured them that whomsoever they create will be the Indra of the birds. Valakhilyas agreed to the new plan. After the yagna, Valakhilyas prasad (offering) was offered to Vinata, one of the two wives of Kashyapa. After eating the same she gave birth to two children. They are Aruna and the most powerful golden-hued eagle, Garuda. The same son of Vinata, the Lord of birds, the mighty Garuda is now approaching our realm to take away the pot of nectar.’

    Upon hearing the story, Indra was terrified. He feared losing his position as the sovereign king of the Devas. Indra ordered his entire army to be in a state of readiness and to guard the Amrita at all costs.

    Several armies responded to the clarion call of Indra. Soon, the path to the ‘Amrita Kalasa’ was guarded by armies of Celestial beings such as Devas, Yakshas, Maruts, Rudras, Vasus, Adityas, Gandharvas, Sadhyas, and the Aswini twins. But the determined Garuda fought with each army and routed them in no time.

    Garuda’s form instilled terror in those who opposed him. He blinded them with the dust raised by his wings, tore them with his talons, broke them with his beak, and cleaved them with his claws. Finally, when Garuda reached the place where the pot of nectar was kept, he found, it was guarded by a giant wheel containing many sharp spikes. Garuda transformed himself into a tiny form and slipped between the spokes, unnoticed.

    Beneath the contraption were two snakes each guarding the pot from the opposite direction. Garuda fought them bravely and finally annihilated them. He shattered the wheel above the pot and took off from the heavens along with the pot of nectar. The victorious Garuda then began his journey back to where his mother was enslaved.

    Impressed by his selflessness, determination and strength, Lord Vishnu appeared before the mighty bird. He looked at Garuda fondly. The king of birds paid his respect to the king of all beings. Lord Vishnu asked Garuda to be of service as a Vaishnava.

    Garuda agreed but placed a request that he shall serve Lord Vishnu from both beneath and above. Happily, Lord Vishnu agreed. Thereafter, as one can see that all flags belonging to Lord Vishnu bear the insignia of Garuda. Garuda was also appointed as the sacred mount of the Lord. So, Garuda got his boons, and Lord Vishnu a devoted attendant.

    Indra, who was watching all this, could not believe his eyes. He gathered all his energy and hurled his Vajrayudha (Thunderbolt) at Garuda. But Indra’s weapon did no harm to Garuda.

    The mighty bird stopped in his tracks to address Indra, respectfully. He then shed a feather out of courtesy at the weapon and resumed his journey. Indra implored him to return the pot of nectar. Garuda explained his mother’s predicament. The two then decided to fulfil each other’s wishes.

    Garuda carried the pot of nectar to the lair of his snake brothers. Eager to drink the nectar and attain a limitless life, the snakes came rushing to Garuda. But he stopped them and requested that first his mother be liberated.

    The snakes and Kadru agreed. Vinata was free once again. Garuda then placed the pot on a bed of Kusha Grass. He then told the snakes that the proper way was to first cleanse themselves and then drink the nectar. The snakes acceded to the wisdom and went to the nearby water bodies to bathe. In the meantime, Indra’s son Jayanta descended from heaven and stealthily made away with the pot of nectar and placed it back safely in the realms of heaven. Upon the return of the snakes after their cleansing, they were devoured by Garuda. In this manner, both Indra and Garuda were happy. Since then, Garuda and snakes have been sworn enemies of each other. Garuda, who is eternal, spends his life in the service of Lord Maha Vishnu.

    Garuda wears various nagas (serpent-Gods) as ornaments. They are:

Ananta on the crown, Vasuki as sacred thread, Takshaka around the waist, Karkota as a necklace, Padma and Mahapadma as earrings and Shankapala and Gulika on his thighs. Other nagas serve him as his servant.

    Garuda is known by many names. They are: Vainateya, Kashyapanandana, Pakshiraja, Tarkshya, Garuthman, Vedatma, Vihageshwara, Vedaswarupi, Suparna and Khagaraja.

      The Ramayana and the Mahabharata have a lot of references to the Valakhilya Rishis. They may be considered the forerunners of English folklore ‘Tom Thumb’ and the Lilliputians of the famous satirical novel ‘Gulliver’s Travels’ by Jonathan Swift.

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By Kamlesh Tripathi

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Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases especially cancer. Our posts are meant for our readers that includes both children and adults and it has a huge variety in terms of content. We also accept donations for our mission. Should you wish to donate for the cause. The bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

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Our Publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

(The book is about a young cancer patient. Now archived in 8 prestigious libraries of the US that includes Harvard College Library; Harvard University Library; Library of Congress; University of Washington, Seattle; University of Minnesota, Minneapolis; Yale University, New Haven; University of Chicago; University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill University Libraries. It can also be accessed in MIT through Worldcat.org. Besides, it is also available for reading in libraries and archives of Canada, Cancer Aid and Research Foundation Mumbai; Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida; India. Shoolini University, Yogananda Knowledge Center, Himachal Pradesh and Azim Premzi University, Bangalore).  

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

(Is a book on ‘singlehood’ about a Delhi girl now archived in Connemara Library, Chennai and Delhi Public Library, GOI, Ministry of Culture, Delhi; Available for reading in Indian National Bibliography, March 2016, in the literature section, in Central Reference Library, Ministry of Culture, India, Belvedere, Kolkata-700022)

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

(Is a fiction written around the great city of Nawabs—Lucknow. It describes Lucknow in great detail and also talks about its Hindu-Muslim amity. That happens to be the undying characteristics of Lucknow. The book was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival of 2014. It is included for reading in Askews and Holts Library Services, Lancashire, U.K; Herrick District Library, Holland and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Library, Mecklenburg County in North Carolina, USA; Black Gold Cooperative Library Administration, Arroyo Grande, California).

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(Co-published by Cankids–Kidscan, a pan India NGO and Shravan Charity Mission, that works for Child cancer in India. The book is endorsed by Ms Preetha Reddy, MD Apollo Hospitals Group. It was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival 2016)

TYPICAL TALE OF AN INDIAN SALESMAN

(Is a story of an Indian salesman who is, humbly qualified. Yet he fights his way through unceasing uncertainties to reach the top. A good read not only for salesmen. The book was launched on 10th February 2018 in Gorakhpur Lit-Fest. Now available on Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

RHYTHM … in poems

(Published in January 2019. The book contains 50 poems. The poems describe our day-to-day life. The book is available on Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

MIRAGE

(Published in February 2020. The book is a collection of eight short stories available in Amazon, Flipkart and Notion Press)

AWADH ASSAM AND DALAI LAMA … The Kalachakra

(The story of the man who received His Holiness The Dalai Lama and his retinue in 1959 as a GOI representative when he fled Tibet in 1959. The book was launched on 21st November 2022 by His Holiness The Dalai Lama).

BHAVANS JOURNAL

Short stories, Book reviews and Articles published in Bhavan’s Journal: 1. Reality and Perception, 15.10.19; 2. Sending the Wrong Message, 31.5.20; 3. Eagle versus Scholars June, 15 & 20 2020; 4. Indica, 15.8.20; 5. The Story of King Chitraketu, August 31 2020; 6. Breaking Through the Chakravyuh, September 30 2020. 7. The Questioning Spouse, October 31, 2020; 8. Happy Days, November 15, 2020; 9. The Karma Cycle of Paddy and Wheat, December 15, 2020; 10. Power Vs Influence, January 31, 2021; 11. Three Refugees, March 15, 2021; 12. Rise and Fall of Ajatashatru, March 31, 2021; 13. Reformed Ruler, May 15, 2021; 14. A Lasting Name, May 31, 2021; 15. Are Animals Better Teachers?, June 16, 2021; 16. Book Review: The Gram Swaraj, 1.7.21; 17. Right Age for Achievements, 15.7.21; 18. Big Things Have Small Beginnings, 15.8.21; 19. Where is Gangaridai?, 15.9.21; 20. Confront the Donkey Within You 30.9.21; 21. Know Your Strengths 15.10.21; 22. Poverty 15.11.21; 23. Top View 30.11.21; 24. The Bansuriwala 15.1.22; 25. Sale of Alaska 15.2.22; 26. The Dimasa Kingdom 28.2.22; 27. Buried Treasure 15.4.22; 28. The Kingdom of Pragjyotisha 30.4.22; 29. Who is more useful? 15.5.22; 30. The White Swan from Lake Mansarovar 30.6.22; 31. Bhool Bhulayya 15.9.22; 32. Good Karma 30.9.22; 33. Good name vs Bad Name 15.10.22; 34. Uttarapath—The Grand Trunk Road 1.12.22; 35. When Gods Get Angry 1.1.23; 36. Holinshed’s Chronicles 15.1.23; 37. Theogony 15.2.23

SUNDAY SHILLONG TIMES

POEM HAPPY NEW YEAR 8.1.23;

(ALL THE ABOVE BOOK TITLES ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE ON AMAZON, FLIPKART AND OTHER ONLINE STORES OR YOU COULD EVEN WRITE TO US FOR A COPY)

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SHORT STORY: BRIGHT IDEAS

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Bright Ideas come from Intelligent people

    A long time ago there once lived a person named Raju in a tiny village located near a river. He was disabled and couldn’t walk normally therefore he was forced to lead a lonely life. He used to stay with his mother in a small hut by the riverside which was a little away from the village. Over a period of time, the villagers had more or less abandoned Raju. They thought he was a spent force as he never had much to talk about except for the same old routine stuff concerning his hut’s rustic vicinities, which didn’t interest the village folks, anymore.

    Once a learned person landed up on the banks of the river near Raju’s hut. The person had arrived on a boat. As he reached the riverbank he stopped for a moment and looked at Raju. Raju said, ‘Namaskar sahib.’

    The learned person asked, ‘What is your name and what do you do?’ Raju replied, ‘Sahib, my name is Raju. But I’m unable to do much in life because I can’t walk properly as I’m disabled and therefore I lead a lonely life here in the vicinities of this village.’

    ‘But why so?’ Asked the learned person.

    ‘Because I have no friends here and my fellow villagers don’t give me enough respect. They don’t talk to me either because they find me to be a stale piece because I stay put here only.’ Raju then narrated his agony to the learned person. He had no friends and no one talked to him. He was discarded by the villagers because he had nothing new to talk about since he had not visited new places in his life so his reservoir of knowledge was very limited and that’s why he was considered an antique piece in the village and thus shunned.

    The learned man looked at Raju and said, ‘that if you don’t get the opportunity to talk to human beings talk to birds.’

    ‘But how will that help sahib?’ Asked Raju. The learned person looked at him again and said, ‘well that the birds will only tell you.’ After which the learned person left for his destination.

    The next day Raju waited for the birds near his hut thinking he’ll talk to them but none came. The next few days too, the same thing happened. One day Raju saw a bird gyrating up and down near his hut in search of some food which gave him an idea. He sprinkled some paddy seeds there and waited for a while. After some time he saw a couple of birds landing there to eat them. Soon a small flock was seen there enjoying the seeds as their food. Later Raju also kept a pitcher full of water there and the place soon turned into a ‘bird’s canteen.’ He and his mother started enjoying the scene. Soon every morning and evening a number of birds started coming there and gradually they became familiar with Raju and his mother. Soon Raju realised what a priceless tip the learned man had given him. Now he could do without the villagers’ company.

    After some days a rich merchant landed up at the same spot where the learned person had earlier arrived. He asked Raju if he had seen a learned person passing that way. Raju confirmed that yes a learned person did pass that way some time ago and because of his advice only he was having a good time amid the chattering birds. By this time Raju had also learnt their language and had started communicating with the birds; some of them had even become his friends and had even started perching on his shoulders.

    The merchant asked, ‘in which direction did the learned man, go? Raju said, ‘Well, he went towards the east.’

    ‘What is your name young man?’ Asked the Merchant.

    ‘Sahib my name is Raju.’ He replied.

    ‘What do you do Raju?’ Asked the Merchant.

    ‘Sahib, I feed birds and I also communicate with them.’

    ‘What else can you do Raju?’ Asked the merchant.

    ‘Since I can’t walk properly I can’t go anywhere so I can’t do much.’ Replied Raju.

    ‘Then spend some time next to the river every day. The flowing river that has seen the world will teach you so many things.’ Said the Merchant after which he left.

    The next morning Raju went and sat on the riverbank. After a while, he saw a boat passing from there. It was heading towards the south. Raju loudly asked the boatman, ‘where are you going?’ The boatman replied, ‘towards the sea where all the rivers meet the sea.’

    The next day Raju saw another boat heading in the opposite direction. He asked the boatman, ‘where are you going?’ The boatman replied, ‘towards the north where all the mountains reside.’ Raju thought, so what if he can’t walk, he can at least see places by sailing in a boat as his hands were perfectly fine. Soon, he sold a piece of his land out of his small holding and bought a small boat and became a boatman. He started sailing towards the north and south the two directions of the river. He even started taking the villagers across the river and with that he once again became relevant in their lives and started drawing respect from them.

    After some time, one day, Raju saw the learned person and the merchant arriving at the riverbank together. They wanted to cross the river. They recognised Raju and asked what he was doing in that boat. Raju explained that he had now become a boatman. He thanked the learned man for his good advice because of which he learned to talk to the birds that made innumerable friends. He even thanked the Merchant for motivating him to sit near the river that gave him the idea of becoming a boatman as his hands were fit enough to row the boat, even when, he could not walk normally and because of this he could see innumerable places and once again become relevant in the lives of the villagers.

    The merchant said never leave the company of a learned man. I lost the learned man once yet I followed him and met you instead, Raju. You told me he has gone towards the east and I followed him there where I found him. So never leave the company of a Wiseman.

    ‘Yes, said Raju, bright ideas come only from intelligent people. The learned sahib only showed me the way. He asked me to befriend the chattering birds instead of human beings that taught me how to respectfully live without the villagers, and you, respected merchant, showed me how to go places, even without, proper legs. There isn’t a greater asset than an intelligent company. Great ideas come from intelligent people only. Now can I take you both across the river?’ Asked Raju. ‘Yes of course.’ Replied the two.

Written by Kamlesh Tripathi

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https://kamleshsujata.wordpress.com

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Share it if you like it

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Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases especially cancer. Our posts are meant for our readers that includes both children and adults and it has a huge variety in terms of content. We also accept donations for our mission. Should you wish to donate for the cause. The bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

*

Our Publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

(The book is about a young cancer patient. Now archived in 8 prestigious libraries of the US that includes Harvard College Library; Harvard University Library; Library of Congress; University of Washington, Seattle; University of Minnesota, Minneapolis; Yale University, New Haven; University of Chicago; University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill University Libraries. It can also be accessed in MIT through Worldcat.org. Besides, it is also available for reading in libraries and archives of Canada, Cancer Aid and Research Foundation Mumbai; Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida; India. Shoolini University, Yogananda Knowledge Center, Himachal Pradesh and Azim Premzi University, Bangalore).  

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

(Is a book on ‘singlehood’ about a Delhi girl now archived in Connemara Library, Chennai and Delhi Public Library, GOI, Ministry of Culture, Delhi; Available for reading in Indian National Bibliography, March 2016, in the literature section, in Central Reference Library, Ministry of Culture, India, Belvedere, Kolkata-700022)

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

(Is a fiction written around the great city of Nawabs—Lucknow. It describes Lucknow in great detail and also talks about its Hindu-Muslim amity. That happens to be the undying characteristics of Lucknow. The book was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival of 2014. It is included for reading in Askews and Holts Library Services, Lancashire, U.K; Herrick District Library, Holland and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Library, Mecklenburg County in North Carolina, USA; Black Gold Cooperative Library Administration, Arroyo Grande, California).

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(Co-published by Cankids–Kidscan, a pan India NGO and Shravan Charity Mission, that works for Child cancer in India. The book is endorsed by Ms Preetha Reddy, MD Apollo Hospitals Group. It was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival 2016)

TYPICAL TALE OF AN INDIAN SALESMAN

(Is a story of an Indian salesman who is, humbly qualified. Yet he fights his ways through unceasing uncertainties to reach the top. A good read not only for salesmen. The book was launched on 10th February, 2018 in Gorakhpur Lit-Fest. Now available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

RHYTHM … in poems

(Published in January 2019. The book contains 50 poems. The poems describe our day to day life. The book is available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

MIRAGE

(Published in February 2020. The book is a collection of eight short stories available in Amazon, Flipkart and Notion Press)

Short stories, Book reviews and Articles published in Bhavan’s Journal: 1.Reality and Perception, 15.10.19; 2.Sending the Wrong Message, 31.5.20; 3. Eagle versus Scholars June, 15 & 20 2020; 4. Indica, 15.8.20; 5. The Story of King Chitraketu, August 31 2020; 6. Breaking Through the Chakravyuh, September 30 2020. 7. The Questioning Spouse, October 31, 2020; 8. Happy Days, November 15, 2020; 9. The Karma Cycle of Paddy and Wheat, December 15, 2020; 10. Power Vs Influence, January 31, 2021; 11. Three Refugees, March 15, 2021; 12. Rise and Fall of Ajatashatru, March 31, 2021; 13. Reformed Ruler, May 15, 2021; 14. A Lasting Name, May 31, 2021; 15. Are Animals Better Teachers?, June 16, 2021; 16. Book Review: The Gram Swaraj, 1.7.21; 17. Right Age for Achievements, 15.7.21; 18. Big Things Have Small Beginnings, 15.8.21; 19. Where is Gangaridai?, 15.9.21; 20. Confront the Donkey Within You 30.9.21; 21. Know Your Strengths 15.10.21; 22. Poverty 15.11.21; 23. Top View 30.11.21; 24. The Bansuriwala 15.1.22; 25. Sale of Alaska 15.2.22; 26. The Dimasa Kingdom 28.2.22; 27. Buried Treasure 15.4.22; 28. The Kingdom of Pragjyotisha 30.4.22; 29. Who is more useful? 15.5.22; 30. The White Swan from Lake Mansarovar 30.6.22;

(ALL THE ABOVE BOOK TITLES ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN AMAZON, FLIPKART AND OTHER ONLINE STORES OR YOU COULD EVEN WRITE TO US FOR A COPY)

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SHORT STORY: THE BANSURIWALA … FLUTIST

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There was once a Bansuriwala who used to pass through a housing society located next to a hillock at a scenic location in a megalopolis every morning playing his flute. Indeed, he was a good flute player. His melodious tunes alone made people buy his flutes and he did not have to sell them like other hawkers who went around with their loud street cries to sell their products. Every day in the morning at a particular time he used to enter the housing society playing a particular tune to announce his arrival and attract the Residents attention. Thereafter, he used to play several other songs out of his oeuvre to attract his prospects into buying his flutes. Residents of the society had got willy-nilly used to this Bansuriwala. They inadvertently used to wait for him in the morning to listen to his melodious songs. The birds and the animals who resided there, and who only understood the language of sweetness thought that the flute and the Bansuriwala were just one. They merely thought it was just the melodious voice of a human being coming out through the flute. But then they were also surprised as to why only one human being spoke so melodiously and others remained quiet. And the Bansuriwala was full of sargam and composition.

    Once it so happened that the Bansuriwala didn’t come to the society for a week when everyone started missing his melodies in their own quiet manner. The birds and the animals there, also felt lifeless and bored and thought their communication with human beings had all of a sudden stopped without any reason. They concluded with their little understanding that human beings have gone quiet just because the flute had stopped playing. Some more days passed like that but the Bansuriwala still didn’t turn up. Upon not finding him and his melody there, the birds and the animals soon withered away and stopped coming to the society.

    But what had the Bansuriwala done? The Bansuriwala had actually created a craving for the melody that emanated out of his flute which he use to play in the society. Saddened at the absence of the Bansuriwala, one day a young boy in the society took out the flute that he had purchased from the flutist and started playing it, but awkwardly. Of course, he didn’t know how to play it but he dared to make an attempt.

    This irritated the neighbours. They started complaining to the society management that the boy was disturbing their peace. But the boy was determined to continue with his endeavours. And after some persistent efforts the boy finally started playing some good melodies through his flute even when they were not up to the standards of the Bansuriwala. Slowly the complaints of the neighbours started waning when they gradually started appreciating his tunes. The boy in the meanwhile improved his flute skills significantly.

    After a few weeks an old retired person also took out his flute that he had bought from the Bansuriwala and started playing it regularly. After seeing the child and the old man playing the flute several other members of the society too started their foray with the flute that they had casually purchased from the Bansuriwala. Soon a ‘Flute Club’ was founded in the society. The club functioned every morning and evening under the tall banyan tree in the housing complex. The birds and the animals rejoiced once again. They returned when they felt more human beings have started talking to them.

    After about six months the Bansuriwala finally returned to the society. He came at his usual time in the morning and was surprised to see the ‘Flute Club’ in full flow under the huge banyan tree. The flute playing child was delighted to see him there. He ran across to welcome him. He asked him where he had vanished. The observant Bansuriwala then replied him with his ready wit saying.

    ‘Dear Child I used to come to this society regularly playing my flute. Everyone liked the way I played it and that included even birds and animals in the vicinity. But one day I sadly realised no was wanting to learn the flute even when they had bought one from me. This disappointed me. So, I thought of exploring some other housing societies in this megalopolis, where people would not only buy a flute but also play it. When I left this place months ago I considered myself a failure. Though, I had sold many flutes here I was unable to inspire anyone to learn how to play it. They only listened to what I played and kept praising me. I realised my success didn’t lie in the selling of flutes alone but in how to make these flutes play. But today, when I have returned after so many months I’m thrilled to see so many of you playing the flute in complete solidarity … ekta. This alone is my success. Flute is like God’s tongue and the songs that the flute plays are like God’s lyrics that reaches out equally to both human beings and animals. The Bansuriwala then turned around and started walking out of the society as his mission here was accomplished since he had created a Bansuriwala in the child, only to discover, another sleeping society where he still had to create a Bansuriwala to accomplish his mission.

    Moral of the story: Be the Bansuriwala of your society. Spread music which is God’s language. Encourage people to learn God’s language. Don’t just keep your flute with you, play it. Treat your tongue like your flute and play it. And finally there is a great difference between possessing an instrument and playing it to please the ambience. Remember, the lyrics of God that come out of the flute are loved and understood by one and all.

By Kamlesh Tripathi

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https://kamleshsujata.wordpress.com

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Share it if you like it

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Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases especially cancer. Our posts are meant for our readers that includes both children and adults and it has a huge variety in terms of content. We also accept donations for our mission. Should you wish to donate for the cause. The bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

*

Our Publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

(The book is about a young cancer patient. Now archived in 8 prestigious libraries of the US that includes Harvard College Library; Harvard University Library; Library of Congress; University of Washington, Seattle; University of Minnesota, Minneapolis; Yale University, New Haven; University of Chicago; University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill University Libraries. It can also be accessed in MIT through Worldcat.org. Besides, it is also available for reading in libraries and archives of Canada, Cancer Aid and Research Foundation Mumbai; Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida; India. Shoolini University, Yogananda Knowledge Center, Himachal Pradesh and Azim Premzi University, Bangalore).  

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

(Is a book on ‘singlehood’ about a Delhi girl now archived in Connemara Library, Chennai and Delhi Public Library, GOI, Ministry of Culture, Delhi; Available for reading in Indian National Bibliography, March 2016, in the literature section, in Central Reference Library, Ministry of Culture, India, Belvedere, Kolkata-700022)

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

(Is a fiction written around the great city of Nawabs—Lucknow. It describes Lucknow in great detail and also talks about its Hindu-Muslim amity. That happens to be the undying characteristics of Lucknow. The book was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival of 2014. It is included for reading in Askews and Holts Library Services, Lancashire, U.K; Herrick District Library, Holland and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Library, Mecklenburg County in North Carolina, USA).

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(Co-published by Cankids–Kidscan, a pan India NGO and Shravan Charity Mission, that works for Child cancer in India. The book is endorsed by Ms Preetha Reddy, MD Apollo Hospitals Group. It was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival 2016)

TYPICAL TALE OF AN INDIAN SALESMAN

(Is a story of an Indian salesman who is, humbly qualified. Yet he fights his ways through unceasing uncertainties to reach the top. A good read not only for salesmen. The book was launched on 10th February, 2018 in Gorakhpur Lit-Fest. Now available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

RHYTHM … in poems

(Published in January 2019. The book contains 50 poems. The poems describe our day to day life. The book is available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

MIRAGE

(Published in February 2020. The book is a collection of eight short stories available in Amazon, Flipkart and Notion Press)

Short stories, Book reviews and Articles published in Bhavan’s Journal: Reality and Perception, 15.10.19; Sending the Wrong Message, 31.5.20; Eagle versus Scholars June, 15 & 20 2020; Indica, 15.8.20; The Story of King Chitraketu, August 31 2020; Breaking Through the Chakravyuh, September 30 2020. The Questioning Spouse, October 31, 2020; Happy Days, November 15, 2020; The Karma Cycle of Paddy and Wheat, December 15,2020; Power Vs Influence, January 31, 2021; Three Refugees, March 15, 2021; Rise and Fall of Ajatashatru, March 31, 2021; Reformed Ruler, May 15, 2021; A Lasting Name, May 31, 2021; Are Animals Better Teachers?, June 16, 2021; Book Review: The Gram Swaraj, 1.7.21; Right Age for Achievements, 15.7.21; Big Things Have Small Beginnings, 15.8.21; Where is Gangaridai?, 15.9.21; Confront the Donkey Within You 30.9.21; Know Your Strengths 15.10.21; Poverty 15.11.21; Top View 30.11.21;

(ALL THE ABOVE BOOK TITLES ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN AMAZON, FLIPKART AND OTHER ONLINE STORES OR YOU COULD EVEN WRITE TO US FOR A COPY)

*****

SHORT STORY: THE BEST ADDRESS IS GOD’S ADDRESS

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    Once, past midnight, a rich man was lying on his bed but was not getting sleep. He was tossing and turning, but it was, to no avail. Finally, he got tired of lying on the bed, and decided to go out in the night for some fresh air and change. He came out of his house and started his car and decided to go for a long drive. On the way after driving for a while he saw a temple. He was not a very ritualistic person, and seldom visited temples. But God knows what happened to him that day that he decided to suddenly stop and have God’s darshan.

    When he entered the temple it was three in the morning. The temple was still and quiet. He found a person sitting there alone. The person looked very despondent, as if, he had a huge problem on his head.

    The rich man enquired, ‘What is the matter friend, why are you sitting in the temple all alone at this hour?’

    The man replied, ‘I have no recourse. God is my last bet. My wife is very serious. She is in the hospital and needs to undergo a vital surgery by morning, failing which she might die.’

    The rich man heard the poor person and decided to do something for him. He took out his wallet and pulled out all the money and gave it to the person. ‘Here this is for your wife’s operation. If you require more here is my card with my telephone number. Please call me for help anytime.’

    ‘The poor person took the money but returned the card.’ The rich man was surprised at this behaviour of his.

    ‘He asked, ‘Why did you return my card?’

    The poor person replied, ‘I have that person’s number and address.’

    ‘Which person and which address?’ Asked the rich man.

    ‘The person who sent you to help me at three in the morning. His name is God. So this card is not required.’

    The rich man was shocked at the poor man’s reply. A new ideation erupted in his mind—God has a plan for each living being on earth. He left for his home and went on to have a sound sleep.

Posted by Kamlesh Tripathi

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https://kamleshsujata.wordpress.com

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Share it if you like it

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Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases especially cancer. Our posts are meant for our readers that includes both children and adults and it has a huge variety in terms of content. We also accept donations for our mission. Should you wish to donate for the cause. The bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

*

Our publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

(The book is about a young cancer patient. Now archived in 8 prestigious libraries of the US that includes Harvard College Library; Harvard University Library; Library of Congress; University of Washington, Seattle; University of Minnesota, Minneapolis; Yale University, New Haven; University of Chicago; University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill University Libraries. It can also be accessed in MIT through Worldcat.org. Besides, it is also available for reading in libraries and archives of Canada, Cancer Aid and Research Foundation Mumbai and Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida, India)  

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

(Is a book on ‘singlehood’ about a Delhi girl now archived in Connemara Library, Chennai and Delhi Public Library, GOI, Ministry of Culture, Delhi; Available for reading in Indian National Bibliography, March 2016, in the literature section, in Central Reference Library, Ministry of Culture, India, Belvedere, Kolkata-700022)

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

(Is a fiction written around the great city of Nawabs—Lucknow. It describes Lucknow in great detail and also talks about its Hindu-Muslim amity. That happens to be the undying characteristics of Lucknow. The book was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival of 2014. It is included for reading in Askews and Holts Library Services, Lancashire, U.K.)

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(Co-published by Cankids–Kidscan, a pan India NGO and Shravan Charity Mission, that works for Child cancer in India. The book is endorsed by Ms Preetha Reddy, MD Apollo Hospitals Group. It was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival 2016)

TYPICAL TALE OF AN INDIAN SALESMAN

(Is a story of an Indian salesman who is, humbly qualified. Yet he fights his ways through unceasing uncertainties to reach the top. A good read not only for salesmen. The book was launched on 10th February, 2018 in Gorakhpur Lit-Fest. Now available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

RHYTHM … in poems

(Published in January 2019. The book contains 50 poems. The poems describe our day to day life. The book is available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

MIRAGE

(Published in February 2020. The book is a collection of eight short stories available in Amazon, Flipkart and Notion Press)

Short stories and Articles published in Bhavan’s Journal: Reality and Perception, 15.10.19; Sending the Wrong Message, 31.5.20; Eagle versus Scholars June, 15 & 20 2020; Indica, 15.8.20; The Story of King Chitraketu, August 31 2020; Breaking Through the Chakravyuh, September 30 2020. The Questioning Spouse, October 31, 2020; Happy Days, November 15, 2020; The Karma Cycle of Paddy and Wheat, December 15,2020; Power Vs Influence, January 31, 2021;

(ALL THE ABOVE TITLES ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN AMAZON, FLIPKART AND OTHER ONLINE STORES OR YOU COULD EVEN WRITE TO US FOR A COPY)

*****

SHORT STORY: CONFRONT THE DONKEY THAT LIES IN YOU

causerie, column, fable, fiction, moral lesson, nature, parable, short story, shravan charity mission, snippet, spiritual, story, storytelling, Uncategorized, video short story, , , , , , , , , ,

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    There was once a lazy and a wicked dhobi (washerman) by the name of Nankau. He had an obedient and a long serving donkey at home. Whom he utilized, for transporting clothes to the nearby river-bank, early in the morning for washing. Further, during the day, he use to hand him over to his friend for a fixed amount. The friend happened to be a contractor, where he was utilised for transporting sand from the river bed to his construction site. In the evening the listless and obedient animal used to return with his master, with bundles of washed clothes on his back. Devious Nankau, apart from, making the donkey, do all the work without any rest, even whipped him for small mistakes, and at times he even starved him for minor misdemeanours. But, he never complimented him for the good work that he did for him. Rather, he considered him to be the jinx of his life.

    One day Gopal a friend of Nankau came to stay with him for a few days. During that time he noticed, how for no rhyme or reason, Nankau whipped the donkey mercilessly, and even cursed him loudly and that too quite often.

    One day Gopal asked Nankau. ‘My dear friend what on earth is the matter with you? As I always find you quite irritable, and you often keep whipping this poor soul in great anger for no fault of his. Why do you do this? Especially, when he is so obedient and does all your work dutifully?’

    Nankau ruefully replied, ‘arrey yaar! This donkey has been very inauspicious for me. Ever since he walked into my life I have been facing some problem or the other. Enough is enough. I now want to get rid of him, somehow. Even earlier, I tried to sell him but no one seemed interested. Maybe, because, I cursed and criticized him so much, in front of others, that no one is now, ready to touch him even with a barge pole.’

    During his stay Gopal could assess the worth of the donkey. So, one day he told his friend, ‘brother, since you are unhappy with him. Why don’t you sell him off to me, and instead, buy another one for yourself.’

    Nankau was delighted at this God gifted opportunity and didn’t want to lose it. So he readily agreed, and sold the donkey to Gopal. Who turned out to be a kind master, and thereon, he looked after the donkey quite well.

    In the meanwhile Nankau had bought a mule for himself. Thinking it will do more work than what the previous animal used to do. Though it had been a while since he had sold the donkey. Yet, he couldn’t forget the cursed animal, and often used to curse him for all the misfortunes that occurred in his life. But now with the mule around him he was hoping his luck would change and he will be a happy man again.

    But in reality Nankau had only passed a couple of lacklustre months in the company of the mule. Who as compared to the donkey looked tougher, but very reluctantly, did as much work, as the donkey used to do in a day. But in the present scenario, Nankau didn’t have the wretched donkey, to curse and blame, for his own failures, each time, things went wrong in his life. Therefore, his nemesis of life, was clearly missing, as the cursed donkey was now someone else’s property, and the mule was too new, to be held responsible for any ill luck. In other words he now had no voodoo in life, whom he could have cursed for his misfortunes. And, he didn’t have the courage to blame and curse himself for his own mistakes, and this started worrying him big time.

    One day when the mule was transporting sand from the river to the contractor’s site. The hind legs of the mule got stuck in the muddy waters of the river and as a result, it could not move. Soon, it slipped and fell, and fractured its leg, and within a few days the wound developed gangrene and he died.

    The mishap left Nankau shell shocked. He now had no means of transporting the clothes, meant for washing. He was now constrained to do it on his own back. But then he had limitations, as he couldn’t carry too many clothes on his back. So he started losing business. And since, the mule was now dead. He was also, deprived of the daily rent that he used to get from the contractor. And that cheat of a contractor didn’t even bother to pay Nankau a compensation for the accidental death of the mule. So overall, Nankau, was at a loss, of a lifetime.

    Nankau suddenly realized he now had no one to curse for his setbacks. Because, the ultimate anathema—the donkey, had already gone out of his life. Therefore, it was not influencing his stars anymore. So, the big question now, in front of him was, who then, was influencing his life if not the donkey?

    So he decided to visit his learned friend Gopal for answers. In Gopal’s house, he was once again face-to-face with his nemesis, the donkey, standing there, in a healthy and happy state. Gopal no doubt was taking good care of the donkey. Nankau, narrated the sequence of misfortunes to Gopal.

   Gopal, first gave him a patient hearing and then said, ‘Dear Nankau, when I visited you last time. I knew you were a victim of your own circumstances. But you always wanted to play the victim card for every adversity that you came across in your life. For which you always wanted a villain whom you could blame and where this speechless donkey came in handy.

    But the real solution in life is to look for the hidden donkey within you, before you start cursing any other donkey outside you. Moreover, you are just a human being, and human beings are bound to make mistakes. So if at all, you need to blame anyone for your mistakes, blame the donkey in you. And for that, keep the donkey alive in you. So that you don’t have to look for a donkey outside, just like this donkey whom you kept cursing.

    With this Nankau had got the clarion message of life. He patted the donkey and returned home.

    Moral of the story: We often blame others for our own misfortunes which is not correct. When things start going wrong in your life confront the donkey that lies within you and don’t look for the one outside you.

By Kamlesh Tripathi

*

https://kamleshsujata.wordpress.com

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Share it if you like it

*

Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases especially cancer. Our posts are meant for our readers that includes both children and adults and it has a huge variety in terms of content. We also accept donations for our mission. Should you wish to donate for the cause. The bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

*

Our publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

(The book is about a young cancer patient. Now archived in 8 prestigious libraries of the US that includes Harvard College Library; Harvard University Library; Library of Congress; University of Washington, Seattle; University of Minnesota, Minneapolis; Yale University, New Haven; University of Chicago; University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill University Libraries. It can also be accessed in MIT through Worldcat.org. Besides, it is also available for reading in libraries and archives of Canada, Cancer Aid and Research Foundation Mumbai and Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida, India)  

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

(Is a book on ‘singlehood’ about a Delhi girl now archived in Connemara Library, Chennai and Delhi Public Library, GOI, Ministry of Culture, Delhi; Available for reading in Indian National Bibliography, March 2016, in the literature section, in Central Reference Library, Ministry of Culture, India, Belvedere, Kolkata-700022)

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

(Is a fiction written around the great city of Nawabs—Lucknow. It describes Lucknow in great detail and also talks about its Hindu-Muslim amity. That happens to be the undying characteristics of Lucknow. The book was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival of 2014. It is included for reading in Askews and Holts Library Services, Lancashire, U.K.)

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(Co-published by Cankids–Kidscan, a pan India NGO and Shravan Charity Mission, that works for Child cancer in India. The book is endorsed by Ms Preetha Reddy, MD Apollo Hospitals Group. It was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival 2016)

TYPICAL TALE OF AN INDIAN SALESMAN

(Is a story of an Indian salesman who is, humbly qualified. Yet he fights his ways through unceasing uncertainties to reach the top. A good read not only for salesmen. The book was launched on 10th February, 2018 in Gorakhpur Lit-Fest. Now available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

RHYTHM … in poems

(Published in January 2019. The book contains 50 poems. The poems describe our day to day life. The book is available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

MIRAGE

(Published in February 2020. The book is a collection of eight short stories available in Amazon, Flipkart and Notion Press)

Short stories and Articles published in Bhavan’s Journal: Reality and Perception, 15.10.19; Sending the Wrong Message, 31.5.20; Eagle versus Scholars June, 15 & 20 2020; Indica, 15.8.20; The Story of King Chitraketu, August 31 2020; Breaking Through the Chakravyuh, September 30 2020. The Questioning Spouse, October 31, 2020; Happy Days, November 15, 2020; The Karma Cycle of Paddy and Wheat, December 15,2020;

(ALL THE ABOVE TITLES ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN AMAZON, FLIPKART AND OTHER ONLINE STORES OR YOU COULD EVEN WRITE TO US FOR A COPY)

*****

SHORT STORY: DROP THAT PIECE OF MEAT

fable, fiction, parable, short story, short story on wild life, shravan charity mission, story, storytelling, Uncategorized, , , , , , ,

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    Once a Crow, who was holding on to a piece of meat in his beaks, was looking for a place, to sit and eat the piece peacefully. But concurrently, a flock of Eagles, who were flying alongside him, started chasing him. Upon seeing the eagles, the crow got scared and nervous. He started flying higher and higher to save himself, but to his amazement, the eagles, who were stronger them him, kept following him, and as a result, now his life was under threat.

    But just then the godly bird Garuda, noticed the pain and fear, in the eyes of the crow. He came close to the crow and asked.

    “What’s wrong, my dear crow? You seem very disturbed and frightened?”

    The crow fearfully replied, “Look at these eagles. They are after my life.”

    Garuda, being the super-bird full of wisdom replied, “They are not after you. They are after that piece of meat that you are holding tightly, in your beak. Just drop it and see the fun.”

    The crow followed the advice of Garuda. He dropped the piece of meat, and lo & behold, all the eagles in a mad rush dived after the falling meat.

    Garuda grinned and said, “The Pain is only there till you hold on to something. So just drop that something and get relieved of that pain.”

    The crow lifted his wings to salute Garuda and said, “Thank You for the brilliant advice. The moment I dropped the piece of meat I became free. I now can fly, even higher, and that too without tension.”

    Moral of the story:

    One, People carry a huge burden called “Ego” in themselves, which creates a false sense of identity about oneself. So drop the ego and see the change. You’ll be happy. Two, one gets irritated by others actions or words without looking for a solution. Don’t get angry till you look for a solution as that will conserve your happiness, at least, for some more time. Three, Stop comparing yourself with others it’ll make you happy. Remember a crow cannot become an eagle. Four, drop materialism to be happy—drop that piece of meat.

By Kamlesh Tripathi

*

https://kamleshsujata.wordpress.com

*

Share it if you like it

*

Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases especially cancer. Our posts are meant for our readers that includes both children and adults and it has a huge variety in terms of content. We also accept donations for our mission. Should you wish to donate for the cause. The bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

*

Our publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

(The book is about a young cancer patient. Now archived in 8 prestigious libraries of the US that includes Harvard College Library; Harvard University Library; Library of Congress; University of Washington, Seattle; University of Minnesota, Minneapolis; Yale University, New Haven; University of Chicago; University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill University Libraries. It can also be accessed in MIT through Worldcat.org. Besides, it is also available for reading in libraries and archives of Canada, Cancer Aid and Research Foundation Mumbai and Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida, India)  

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

(Is a book on ‘singlehood’ about a Delhi girl now archived in Connemara Library, Chennai and Delhi Public Library, GOI, Ministry of Culture, Delhi; Available for reading in Indian National Bibliography, March 2016, in the literature section, in Central Reference Library, Ministry of Culture, India, Belvedere, Kolkata-700022)

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

(Is a fiction written around the great city of Nawabs—Lucknow. It describes Lucknow in great detail and also talks about its Hindu-Muslim amity. That happens to be the undying characteristics of Lucknow. The book was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival of 2014. It is included for reading in Askews and Holts Library Services, Lancashire, U.K.)

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(Co-published by Cankids–Kidscan, a pan India NGO and Shravan Charity Mission, that works for Child cancer in India. The book is endorsed by Ms Preetha Reddy, MD Apollo Hospitals Group. It was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival 2016)

TYPICAL TALE OF AN INDIAN SALESMAN

(Is a story of an Indian salesman who is, humbly qualified. Yet he fights his ways through unceasing uncertainties to reach the top. A good read not only for salesmen. The book was launched on 10th February, 2018 in Gorakhpur Lit-Fest. Now available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

RHYTHM … in poems

(Published in January 2019. The book contains 50 poems. The poems describe our day to day life. The book is available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

MIRAGE

(Published in February 2020. The book is a collection of eight short stories. It is available in Amazon, Flipkart and Notion Press)

Short stories and Articles published in Bhavan’s Journal: Reality and Perception, 15.10.19; Sending the Wrong Message, 31.5.20; Eagle versus Scholars June, 15 & 20 2020; Indica, 15.8.20; The Story of King Chitraketu, August 31 2020; Breaking Through the Chakravyuh, September 30 2020. The Questioning Spouse, October 31, 2020; Happy Days, November 15, 2020,

(ALL THE ABOVE TITLES ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN AMAZON, FLIPKART AND OTHER ONLINE STORES OR YOU COULD EVEN WRITE TO US FOR A COPY)

*****

SHORT STORY: POWER VERSUS INFLUENCE: Kamlesh Tripathi

short story, story, storytelling, Uncategorized, , , , , , , , , , , ,

Copyright@shravancharitymission

   

    Once there was a young monkey who was sitting on top of a tree from where, he was keenly watching a person, atop a rostrum, addressing some thousand people, who were standing there.

    The young monkey was amazed at this unusual sight. He couldn’t understand, as to why, so many people had gathered around to listen to just one man. So he got very curious, and wanted to know what was happening. But he was clueless.

    So he asked the aged monkey who was relaxing on the abutting tree.

    ‘Who is this man, and why have, so many people gathered around him?’

    ‘The aged monkey smirked at the novice and said. ‘A person who addresses a gathering of a thousand people in one go is obviously a very influential man. And, in human parlance, he is called a leader.’

    ‘But I had heard that the most powerful person in a kingdom is the king, who is also, the head of the state.’

    ‘You are cent percent right. The king indeed is the most powerful person in the kingdom. But then, there is a great difference between power and influence.’ The aged monkey made a point.

    ‘And what is that?’ Asked the young monkey.

    ‘See, the king is all too powerful, to lock you up in a cage. But a leader is influential enough, to influence the king, to get you released from the cage.’

    ‘So then, who is more powerful the king or the leader?’ Asked the young monkey.

    ‘Well, they both are equally powerful, in their own ways. The king is the divine head of the kingdom, but a leader, or say, all leaders, put together, can make or break the kingdom with a lot of ease.’ Said the aged monkey.

    ‘In other words you mean to say that the king is, as powerful, or, as weak, as its, treasure of leaders.’ Insinuated the young monkey.

    ‘Most certainly. A king might think he is the ultimate power in the kingdom, but in reality, he is not, and the same law, also applies, to our kingdom too.’ Replied the aged monkey.

    Meanwhile, there was a king’s spy, who was standing below the tree, listening to the conversation of the two monkeys. He soon came and told the king, whatever, the monkeys were discussing.

    Upon hearing the spy, the arrogant king was alarmed, at what the monkeys were discussing, so he got them caged separately, as he felt, they were into, some unnecessary gossip, that would have resulted in a canard, both, about his own reputation and his governance. The king then told the monkeys in sheer hubris. ‘Now let me see which influencer, or leader, can get you out of this cage.’

    But after a few months only, the neighbouring kingdom, that was perceived, as more powerful, than the king’s own kingdom, threatened to attack. The king got paranoid, even when, he considered himself to be a brainiac. He didn’t know what to do. So he called for all his leaders, ministers and advisors to formulate an immediate strategy to save the country from war. Immediately, some of his advisors said, the king should avoid a battle at any cost, because, the neighbouring kingdom is too powerful, whereas, some said, we should take the enemy head on, come what may.

    Finally, after a great amount of deliberation, the king realised, that in his kingdom, there were, more of optimists than pessimists and naysayers, so he decided to launch an offensive against the neighbouring country, which he won.

    Thereafter, he rewarded all those leaders, who had advised him to take the enemy head on, and even got the two monkeys released from the cage. But he did not arrest or incarcerate the pessimists and naysayers, realising, they had a mental block towards positive thinking. These events made the king realise about the fruitful connection, between ‘power’ and ‘influence,’ and his inability, to differentiate between them, earlier. He asked the aged monkey, where from, he got this, reservoir of wisdom. The monkey replied he got it from the king’s garden.  The king was surprised at this. He asked, ‘how and when?’ The monkey replied.

    ‘Majesty! Your garden has the best of fruits and vegetables. I often used to hide and feast over there, in my heydays, where, I often heard, your arrogant monologues, and the spite that you had for the leaders and influencers in your kingdom, who were actually intellectuals, in their own right. At that time I had little doubt about you being the supreme power. But when I heard the leaders addressing the common public I released they indeed were the supreme brains. Huzoor, a country can only be run efficiently, by a good blend of the two, and you proved my point when you asked the leaders to formulate a strategy for the kingdom, as you couldn’t do it alone, post which you won the war.’

    After hearing out the monkey, the king waited for some moments and then ordered, that the aged monkey be arrested again, for stealing fruits and vegetables from his garden. The younger monkey was sent to the king’s remand home to reform.

    Moral of the story: One, power is a royal asset, influence is a wise man’s defense. Two, at times even an honest confession can land you in prison, just like the aged monkey, even years later. Three, even seen with someone can be misconstrued as keeping company, like the young monkey’s short conversation, because of which he had to serve the king’s remand home. Four: Beware, old habits die hard. The king, even after listening to all the grand wisdom of the aged monkey, still returned, to his old habit, and got him re-arrested and sent the younger one to the remand home.

  By Kamlesh Tripathi

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https://kamleshsujata.wordpress.com

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Share it if you like it

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Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases especially cancer. Our posts are meant for our readers that includes both children and adults and it has a huge variety in terms of content. We also accept donations for our mission. Should you wish to donate for the cause. The bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

*

Our publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

(The book is about a young cancer patient. Now archived in 8 prestigious libraries of the US that includes Harvard College Library; Harvard University Library; Library of Congress; University of Washington, Seattle; University of Minnesota, Minneapolis; Yale University, New Haven; University of Chicago; University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill University Libraries. It can also be accessed in MIT through Worldcat.org. Besides, it is also available for reading in libraries and archives of Canada, Cancer Aid and Research Foundation Mumbai and Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida, India)  

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

(Is a book on ‘singlehood’ about a Delhi girl now archived in Connemara Library, Chennai and Delhi Public Library, GOI, Ministry of Culture, Delhi; Available for reading in Indian National Bibliography, March 2016, in the literature section, in Central Reference Library, Ministry of Culture, India, Belvedere, Kolkata-700022)

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

(Is a fiction written around the great city of Nawabs—Lucknow. It describes Lucknow in great detail and also talks about its Hindu-Muslim amity. That happens to be the undying characteristics of Lucknow. The book was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival of 2014. It is included for reading in Askews and Holts Library Services, Lancashire, U.K.)

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(Co-published by Cankids–Kidscan, a pan India NGO and Shravan Charity Mission, that works for Child cancer in India. The book is endorsed by Ms Preetha Reddy, MD Apollo Hospitals Group. It was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival 2016)

TYPICAL TALE OF AN INDIAN SALESMAN

(Is a story of an Indian salesman who is, humbly qualified. Yet he fights his ways through unceasing uncertainties to reach the top. A good read not only for salesmen. The book was launched on 10th February, 2018 in Gorakhpur Lit-Fest. Now available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

RHYTHM … in poems

(Published in January 2019. The book contains 50 poems. The poems describe our day to day life. The book is available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

MIRAGE

(Published in February 2020. The book is a collection of eight short stories. It is available in Amazon, Flipkart and Notion Press)

Short stories and Articles published in Bhavan’s Journal: Reality and Perception, 15.10.19; Sending the Wrong Message, 31.5.20; Eagle versus Scholars June, 15 & 20 2020; Indica, 15.8.20; The Story of King Chitraketu, August 31 2020; Breaking Through the Chakravyuh, September 30 2020. The Questioning Spouse, October 31, 2020; Happy Days, November 15, 2020,

(ALL THE ABOVE TITLES ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN AMAZON, FLIPKART AND OTHER ONLINE STORES OR YOU COULD EVEN WRITE TO US FOR A COPY)

*****

SHORT STORY: WHO IS THE REAL OWNER OF THE MANGO TREE

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Copyright@shravancharitymission

    Once, there were two friends, Ram and Shyam. They were fighting over the ownership of a Mango Tree. Ram said the Mango tree belonged to him, while Shyam said he owned it. Unable to find a solution, they decided to go Birbal for help and clarification.

    Quick witted Birbal first analysed the problem and then told the friends to first pluck all the mangoes, and share them, between themselves.  

    After that Birbal advised them to cut the tree in two equal halves. Upon hearing the cruel suggestion of Birbal, Ram kept quiet, which meant he agreed to the suggestion. But Shyam got emotional and thus hysterical, and started weeping profusely. He pleaded not to cut the tree for he had nurtured it, for three long years. With this, Birbal had found, who the real owner of the tree was. He said, “The tree definitely belongs to Shyam, because the mere thought of cutting it down troubled Shyam no end. Someone who has grown a plant from seed to tree for three years won’t cut it down so easily.”

Moral of the Story: Emotion comes with attachment.

A person will surely get emotional about what he has created just like Shyam who grew the mango tree.

By Kamlesh Tripathi

*

https://kamleshsujata.wordpress.com

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Share it if you like it

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Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases especially cancer. Our posts are meant for our readers that includes both children and adults and it has a huge variety in terms of content. We also accept donations for our mission. Should you wish to donate for the cause. The bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

*

Our publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

(The book is about a young cancer patient. Now archived in 8 prestigious libraries of the US that includes Harvard College Library; Harvard University Library; Library of Congress; University of Washington, Seattle; University of Minnesota, Minneapolis; Yale University, New Haven; University of Chicago; University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill University Libraries. It can also be accessed in MIT through Worldcat.org. Besides, it is also available for reading in libraries and archives of Canada, Cancer Aid and Research Foundation Mumbai and Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida, India)  

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

(Is a book on ‘singlehood’ about a Delhi girl now archived in Connemara Library, Chennai and Delhi Public Library, GOI, Ministry of Culture, Delhi; Available for reading in Indian National Bibliography, March 2016, in the literature section, in Central Reference Library, Ministry of Culture, India, Belvedere, Kolkata-700022)

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

(Is a fiction written around the great city of Nawabs—Lucknow. It describes Lucknow in great detail and also talks about its Hindu-Muslim amity. That happens to be the undying characteristics of Lucknow. The book was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival of 2014. It is included for reading in Askews and Holts Library Services, Lancashire, U.K.)

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(Co-published by Cankids–Kidscan, a pan India NGO and Shravan Charity Mission, that works for Child cancer in India. The book is endorsed by Ms Preetha Reddy, MD Apollo Hospitals Group. It was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival 2016)

TYPICAL TALE OF AN INDIAN SALESMAN

(Is a story of an Indian salesman who is, humbly qualified. Yet he fights his ways through unceasing uncertainties to reach the top. A good read not only for salesmen. The book was launched on 10th February, 2018 in Gorakhpur Lit-Fest. Now available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

RHYTHM … in poems

(Published in January 2019. The book contains 50 poems. The poems describe our day to day life. The book is available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

MIRAGE

(Published in February 2020. The book is a collection of eight short stories. It is available in Amazon, Flipkart and Notion Press)

Short stories and Articles published in Bhavan’s Journal: Reality and Perception, 15.10.19; Sending the Wrong Message, 31.5.20; Eagle versus Scholars June, 15 & 20 2020; Indica, 15.8.20; The Story of King Chitraketu, August 31 2020; Breaking Through the Chakravyuh, September 30 2020. The Questioning Spouse, October 31, 2020; Happy Days, November 15, 2020,

(ALL THE ABOVE TITLES ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN AMAZON, FLIPKART AND OTHER ONLINE STORES OR YOU COULD EVEN WRITE TO US FOR A COPY)

*****

SHORT STORY: THE STORY BEHIND ‘GOVERDHAN PUJA’

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Copyright@shravancharitymission

Lord God Krishna lifting the Govardhan Parwat

    Goverdhan was a docile but a mighty mountain that co-existed in harmony with his father, Dronachala, centuries ago. One day, the great sage, Pulastya, happened to pass by the mountain. And, he took such an instant liking to Govardhan that he desired to carry him off to Banaras, so that he could perform his meditation peacefully, in the secluded caves of Govardhan.

    Respecting the sage, Govardhan agreed to go, but on one condition. That wherever and whenever, Pulastya, would keep him down, after lifting him up, he would not move from that spot. The sage readily agreed to this. He lifted Goverdhan, and began to fly towards Banaras. But, as they flew over Vrindavan, Goverdhan felt, an intense attraction to settle down there. So, with his mystic power, he caused an irresistible urge in Pulastya, to attend to nature’s call. Sage Pulastya, forgetting, the one and only one condition, was compelled to place Govardhan down, in Vrindavan.

    After relieving himself, when, Pulastya tried to lift Goverdhan to continue his onward journey to Banaras, but the mountain didn’t budge an inch. Pulastya, tried with all his might but Goverdhan stayed put. This enraged the sage. He cursed Goverdhan, to shrink in size and eventually become a small hillock. Govardhan, accepted the curse with a woeful heart, taking it, as the unshakeable will of the Almighty.

    But as fate would have it. Much later in Treta Yuga, God Hanuman, lifted ‘Govardhan Parbat’ for bringing it to Dhanushkodi, as part of the magnificent bridge that was being constructed for Lord God Rama to cross over the present day Palk-Strait (India to Sri Lanka). But, suddenly a mysterious voice resounded (Akashwani) in the sky, announcing, that the bridge was already completed. Disappointed, God Hanuman, returned to the spot from where he had lifted Govardhan and placed him back in that same very spot, in Vraja-bhoomi, where the mountain stood earlier.

    Goverdhan, felt sad because he missed a golden opportunity to serve the divine mission of lord God Rama. Yet, he waited patiently for many years hoping against hope, to be of some service to Lord God Krishna in Dvapara yuga.

    When Krishna grew up, into a young boy, his heart was irresistibly attracted to this magic hill, Goverdhan, whose slopes were full of lush pasture grounds, for crows to graze, and also served as a playground for Krishna and the cowherd boys, and girls to revel in various sport and relax and refresh themselves in the crystal clear waters of Govardhan’s lake, and secluded caves.

    Krishna wanted to teach Indra a lesson, since he had become too proud, because of the traditional ‘yajna’ that the Vraja-wasis were offering to him. So, he convinced Nanda baba, to discontinue the ‘Indra-yajna,’ and instead, have a glorious festival, to honour Govardhan. Deeply mortified, the enraged king of heaven decided to drown the inhabitants of Vraja with unseasonal devastating rains, stormy winds and hailstorm for seven long days.

    Krishna, however, thwarted Indra’s ruthless plan by effortlessly holding Govardhan on his little finger, like a gigantic umbrella, for the protection of the terrified residents of Vraja Bhoomi.

    In stark contrast to Indra’s arrogance and reckless conduct, Govardhan’s gentle and submissive nature attracted the favour of Krishna who elevated the mountain to the status of a sacred deity.

    Govardhan Parvat, adds special charm and enchantment to the holy land of Vraja-bhoomi and whom millions of devotees circumambulate throughout the year, even till date.

By Kamlesh Tripathi

*

https://kamleshsujata.wordpress.com

*

Share it if you like it

*

Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases especially cancer. Our posts are meant for our readers that includes both children and adults and it has a huge variety in terms of content. We also accept donations for our mission. Should you wish to donate for the cause. The bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

*

Our publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

(The book is about a young cancer patient. Now archived in 8 prestigious libraries of the US that includes Harvard College Library; Harvard University Library; Library of Congress; University of Washington, Seattle; University of Minnesota, Minneapolis; Yale University, New Haven; University of Chicago; University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill University Libraries. It can also be accessed in MIT through Worldcat.org. Besides, it is also available for reading in libraries and archives of Canada, Cancer Aid and Research Foundation Mumbai and Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida, India)  

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

(Is a book on ‘singlehood’ about a Delhi girl now archived in Connemara Library, Chennai and Delhi Public Library, GOI, Ministry of Culture, Delhi; Available for reading in Indian National Bibliography, March 2016, in the literature section, in Central Reference Library, Ministry of Culture, India, Belvedere, Kolkata-700022)

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

(Is a fiction written around the great city of Nawabs—Lucknow. It describes Lucknow in great detail and also talks about its Hindu-Muslim amity. That happens to be the undying characteristics of Lucknow. The book was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival of 2014. It is included for reading in Askews and Holts Library Services, Lancashire, U.K.)

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(Co-published by Cankids–Kidscan, a pan India NGO and Shravan Charity Mission, that works for Child cancer in India. The book is endorsed by Ms Preetha Reddy, MD Apollo Hospitals Group. It was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival 2016)

TYPICAL TALE OF AN INDIAN SALESMAN

(Is a story of an Indian salesman who is, humbly qualified. Yet he fights his ways through unceasing uncertainties to reach the top. A good read not only for salesmen. The book was launched on 10th February, 2018 in Gorakhpur Lit-Fest. Now available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

RHYTHM … in poems

(Published in January 2019. The book contains 50 poems. The poems describe our day to day life. The book is available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

MIRAGE

(Published in February 2020. The book is a collection of eight short stories. It is available in Amazon, Flipkart and Notion Press)

Short stories and Articles published in Bhavan’s Journal: Reality and Perception, 15.10.19; Sending the Wrong Message, 31.5.20; Eagle versus Scholars June, 15 & 20 2020; Indica, 15.8.20; The Story of King Chitraketu, August 31 2020; Breaking Through the Chakravyuh, September 30 2020. The Questioning Spouse, October 31, 2020; Happy Days, November 15, 2020,

(ALL THE ABOVE TITLES ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN AMAZON, FLIPKART AND OTHER ONLINE STORES OR YOU COULD EVEN WRITE TO US FOR A COPY)

*****

SHORT STORY: GOD STILL HAS ANIMALS LIKE YOU TO DEAL WITH

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GOD STILL HAS ANIMALS LIKE YOU TO DEAL WITH

   Once a tiger sneaked into a town during the day. The town was quiet with not a soul around. The doors of all the houses were closed and so were the shops and the market. There were no children playing outside. The tiger felt quite elated at the scenario thinking how much people were scared of him, that upon his arrival, the whole town had shut down.

    While he was observing the sombre ambience very keenly, he came across a wandering cow. He asked, ‘Hey you what’s going on here. Kya chal raha hai? Where is everyone, and why is this city under a lockdown?’

    The cow replied, ‘Boss there is a new beast in town so everyone has gone into hiding.’

    ‘Hiding … beast!! O yes—yes. I’m the deadliest of all the beasts, so indeed, they have all gone into hiding because of me.’ Cheered the tiger.

    ‘No I’m sorry tiger bhai. Your days are over. Now no one is scared of you, because there is a new beast in town.’

    ‘My days are over … New beast in town? But where is this new beast? What is his name and where has he come from?’ Asked the tiger.

    ‘Well he has come all the way from China. China is also known as dragon. His name is Corona and he comes from a killer family called Virus.’ Replied the cow.

    ‘And what does he look like?’ Asked the tiger.

    ‘Well … He is as big as the tip of your whisker or may be even smaller. You actually can’t see him with naked eyes. There are some posters of his that human beings have erected in the town so that one can at least imagine what he looks like. He resembles a tiny ball with thorns on it. If I understand correctly he has already killed about half a million people across the world. And tiger ji, you now pale in front of him.’ Replied the cow.

    ‘But boss, who has produced this little deadly beast?’ Asked the tiger.

    ‘The other day. Tommy my neighbourhood dog was telling me, that he had heard from someone, that this micro beast, called Corona-Virus, was actually produced by China in their own lab without the permission of God, and since then, it has already gone on, to kill so many human beings.’

    ‘Tommy is right. There is nothing like god in this world.’ Said the tiger and growled in jubilation.

    The cow looked at the tiger in utter dismay and said, ‘maybe, for animals like you there is no God, but God still has animals like you to deal with.’

    Moral of the story: Even if you believe there is no God. God doesn’t believe likewise and continues to protect you.

Written by Kamlesh Tripathi

*

https://kamleshsujata.wordpress.com

*

Share it if you like it

*

Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases especially cancer. Our posts are meant for our readers that includes both children and adults and it has a huge variety in terms of content. We also accept donations for our mission. Should you wish to donate for the cause. The bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

*

Our publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

(The book is about a young cancer patient. Now archived in 7 prestigious libraries of the US, including, Harvard University and Library of Congress. It can also be accessed in MIT through Worldcat.org. Besides, it is also available for reading in Libraries and archives of Canada and Cancer Aid and Research Foundation Mumbai)  

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

(Is a book on ‘singlehood’ about a Delhi girl now archived in Connemara Library, Chennai and Delhi Public Library, GOI, Ministry of Culture, Delhi)

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

(Is a fiction written around the great city of Nawabs—Lucknow. It describes Lucknow in great detail and also talks about its Hindu-Muslim amity. That happens to be the undying characteristics of Lucknow. The book was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival of 2014. It is included for reading in Askews and Holts Library Services, Lancashire, U.K.)

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(Co-published by Cankids–Kidscan, a pan India NGO and Shravan Charity Mission, that works for Child cancer in India. The book is endorsed by Ms Preetha Reddy, MD Apollo Hospitals Group. It was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival 2016)

TYPICAL TALE OF AN INDIAN SALESMAN

(Is a story of an Indian salesman who is, humbly qualified. Yet he fights his ways through unceasing uncertainties to reach the top. A good read not only for salesmen. The book was launched on 10th February, 2018 in Gorakhpur Lit-Fest. Now available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

RHYTHM … in poems

(Published in January 2019. The book contains 50 poems. The poems describe our day to day life. The book is available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha)

MIRAGE

(Published in February 2020. The book is a collection of eight short stories. It is available in Amazon, Flipkart and Notion Press)

(ALL THE ABOVE TITLES ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN AMAZON, FLIPKART AND OTHER ONLINE STORES OR YOU COULD EVEN WRITE TO US FOR A COPY)

*****