Once upon a time, in a sunny forest, lived a clever jackal named Kakabhushundi. He loved walking around and seeing what adventures he could find.
One morning, Kakabhushundi saw a camel walking slowly along the forest path. The camel looked tired and sad.
“Hello, friend! Why do you look so tired?” asked Kakabhushundi.
“Hello,” said the camel. “I am Kumudaka. I come from a faraway desert, and I am looking for water and food. But I am lost.”
Kakabhushundi thought for a moment.
“Don’t worry, Kumudaka! I will help you. Follow me!”
Kumudaka followed Kakabhushundi through the trees. Soon, they came to a small muddy pond.
“Here you go! Water and grass for you!” said Kakabhushundi proudly.
Kumudaka looked at the muddy pond and said, “Oh… this is too little. I am very thirsty and hungry. Can we find something better?”
At that moment, the wise old tortoise Mitra slowly walked by.
“Kakabhushundi,” said Mitra kindly, “helping friends means being honest. You should show Kumudaka the real water, not a muddy pond.”
Kakabhushundi nodded. “Oh, you’re right, Mitra! I will help him properly.”
Together, Kakabhushundi and Mitra led Kumudaka to a sparkling river surrounded by green grass. Kumudaka drank the water happily and ate the fresh grass.
“Thank you, Kakabhushundi! Thank you, Mitra! You are true friends!” said Kumudaka with a big smile.
From that day on, Kakabhushundi learned that being kind and honest is better than tricking someone, and the forest echoed with laughter and happiness.