Once upon a time
The Monkey and the Crocodile
Indian folk tale · Panchatantra · retold for families
About 6 min read aloud · For grown-ups and children together
On a riverbank grew a jamun tree, purple fruit shining like tiny lanterns. A monkey lived high in its branches, happy and safe.
A crocodile rested on the mud below. “Friend,” called the monkey, “try this fruit.” He tossed down a handful. The crocodile tasted sweetness and smiled with all his teeth.
Every day they shared fruit and stories. The crocodile’s wife heard how much jamun the monkey sent. “Bring me his heart,” she said. “They say it is sweeter than the fruit.”
The crocodile grew quiet. Next visit, he said, “Dear monkey, my wife invites you to our home across the river.” The monkey agreed and climbed onto the crocodile’s back.
Midstream, the crocodile sank a little lower. “Why are you sad?” asked the monkey.
“My wife wants your heart,” confessed the crocodile, ashamed.
The monkey did not panic. He laughed lightly. “Why didn’t you say so? I left my heart on the tree — we monkeys always keep a spare there. Take me back and I’ll fetch it for her.”
The crocodile turned at once. On the bank, the monkey sprang up the jamun tree. “My heart is here, inside me,” he said kindly, “but it is not food. Go home and tell your wife that friendship is sweeter than any fruit.”
The crocodile bowed his head and swam away. He never asked for hearts again.
The monkey watched the river turn gold in the evening. Some nights, trust wobbles — but honesty and a clear mind can carry you home.
Classic tale retold by IRA Creations for screen-free bedtime. After the story, try a quiet craft — our painting kits or free colouring sheets.