Panchathantra Stories for Children

The Panchatantra is a legendary collection of short stories from ancient India. Originally composed in the 3rd century B.C. Panchatantra is believed to be written by Vishnu Sharma. The purpose behind the composition was to implant moral values and governing skills in the young sons of the king. The Panchatantra is the best guide to inculcate moral values in children since its each tale has a moral lesson in its end.The Panchtantra is a great book where plants and animals can speak and converse with human beings. The etymology of term Panchatantra' suggests that it is a combination of two words, `Pancha' (five) and Tantra' (practice/ principle). So, the five principles or practices illustrated by Panchatantra are `Mitra Bhedha' (Loss of Friends), `Mitra Laabha' (Gaining Friends), `Suhrudbheda' (Causing discord between Friends); Vigraha' (Separation) and 'Sandhi' (Union). The stories have been translated into nearly every language in the world that has a script. The story form appeals to children while the wisdom in them attracts adults. Here we try to retell some of the popular tales from Panchatantra without losing its essence.

**Contents and Sample Pages**