Story Summary
Discover the Panchatantra classic The Four Friends, where a deer, crow, mouse, and turtle use teamwork and wit to outsmart a hunter and save each other.
Deep in a forest, a deer, a crow, and a mouse were inseparable friends. One day, they met a turtle and welcomed him into their group. Their bond was soon tested when a hunter captured the deer in a net. Working together, the mouse gnawed through the ropes while the crow kept watch. Later, the hunter managed to catch the slow-moving turtle. To save him, the deer lay still by a lake, pretending to be dead, while the crow pecked at him as if he were a carcass. When the hunter dropped the turtle's bag to claim the 'dead' deer, the mouse quickly freed the turtle. By the time the hunter realized the trick, all four friends had vanished into the safety of the woods.
The Moral
True friends stand by each other in times of trouble, and unity can defeat even the strongest foe.
“No friend is too small, and no obstacle too big, when we stand as one.”
Fun Fact
The Four Friends is part of the 'Mitra-labha' (Winning of Friends) book of the Panchatantra, designed to teach young princes the art of diplomacy and alliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of The Four Friends?
The story teaches that unity is strength. When individuals work together and use their unique talents for a common goal, they can overcome challenges that would be impossible to face alone.
Who are the characters in The Four Friends?
The story features four unlikely allies: a nimble deer, a wise crow, a quick-witted mouse, and a slow but steady turtle. A persistent hunter serves as the antagonist.
How did the mouse help save the deer?
When the deer was caught in the hunter's net, the mouse used his sharp teeth to gnaw through the thick ropes. This allowed the deer to escape before the hunter could return to claim his prize.
What plan did the friends use to save the turtle?
The deer pretended to be dead near a lake while the crow mimicked pecking at him. This distracted the hunter, causing him to drop the turtle to chase the deer, giving the mouse time to free the turtle.
Where does the story of The Four Friends come from?
This tale is part of the Panchatantra, an ancient Indian collection of interrelated animal fables in Sanskrit verse and prose. It is found in the section concerning the winning of friends.
Why is this story important for children?
It highlights the value of diversity and cooperation. It shows that even the smallest or slowest member of a group has a vital role to play in the success and safety of the whole team.