Once upon a time, in a peaceful village, there lived a kind Brahmin named Devasarman and his wife. They had a little baby boy, and to protect him, they decided to bring home a pet mongoose. They named him Moti.
Moti was a playful and loving mongoose. He would play with the baby, keeping him entertained and safe. The family loved Moti dearly, and he became a cherished member of their household.
One day, the Brahmin and his wife had to leave the house to run some errands. They left the baby sleeping in his cradle and asked Moti to watch over him. Moti, ever loyal, agreed and sat by the cradle, keeping a watchful eye.
While they were away, a venomous snake slithered into the house. Seeing the danger, Moti bravely confronted the snake. After a fierce battle, Moti managed to kill the snake, protecting the baby.
Exhausted and covered in blood, Moti lay down beside the cradle, waiting for his masters to return.
When the Brahmin’s wife returned home, she saw Moti outside the house, his mouth and paws stained with blood. Panic-stricken, she rushed inside, fearing the worst. She found the baby safe and sound in his cradle, but her heart sank when she saw the dead snake nearby.
In her haste and fear, she assumed that Moti had harmed the baby. Without thinking, she grabbed a heavy stick and struck Moti, wounding him fatally.
As she entered the house, she noticed the snake’s lifeless body and realized her grave mistake. Overcome with guilt and sorrow, she rushed outside, but it was too late. Moti had passed away, having sacrificed his life to protect the family he loved.
Moral:
Think before you act. A true friend is one who protects, not harms.