Once upon a time
The Pigeons and the Net
Panchatantra · retold for families
About 4 min read aloud · For grown-ups and children together
A flock of pigeons pecked millet in a farmer’s yard. A hunter spread a thin net and hid behind a wall. When the birds landed, the net snapped shut.
Inside the net, wings beat in panic. The oldest pigeon said, “Stop flapping alone. On my count, fly up together — the net may rise with us.”
One, two, three — every wing pulled the same way. The net lifted like a cloud and carried them over the wall toward the forest.
Above the trees they dropped together; the net caught on thorns while pigeons slipped free one by one.
That evening they flew in a tight circle, grateful. Parents tell children: when trouble wraps around you, pull together.
Classic tale retold by IRA Creations for screen-free bedtime. After the story, try a quiet craft — our painting kits or free colouring sheets.