The Monkey and the Mangoes – India (Original Version)

In the lush, green forests of India, where the sun dappled the ground through a canopy of leaves, there stood a magnificent mango tree. Its branches were heavy with ripe, golden mangoes that filled the air with their sweet fragrance. The tree was the pride of the forest, and all the animals admired its beauty.

One sunny morning, a mischievous monkey named Raju discovered the mango tree. His eyes widened with delight at the sight of the juicy fruit. “These mangoes are all mine!” he declared, climbing up the tree and plucking as many as he could carry.

Raju spent the day feasting on the mangoes, savoring their sweetness. He was so delighted with his find that he decided to keep the mangoes all to himself. Whenever other animals approached the tree, hoping to taste the delicious fruit, Raju would shoo them away, hoarding the mangoes in a secret stash at the top of the tree.

Days passed, and Raju continued to guard his treasure. But soon, he noticed that the once plentiful mangoes were dwindling. His stash was running low, and the joy he felt from eating the mangoes began to fade. He realized that his greed had left him feeling lonely and unsatisfied.

One day, as Raju sat atop the tree, pondering his situation, he heard the gentle voice of Mina, a wise old elephant, who had been observing him from afar. “Raju,” she said kindly, “the true sweetness of the mangoes is best enjoyed when shared.”

Raju listened, intrigued by her words. Mina continued, “When you share with others, you not only bring them joy but also fill your heart with happiness.”

Reflecting on her advice, Raju decided to change his ways. He invited the other animals to join him under the mango tree. Together, they picked the ripe mangoes, laughing and playing as they enjoyed the feast. The forest came alive with chatter and camaraderie, and Raju felt a warmth in his heart that he had never experienced before.

As the animals shared stories and mangoes, Raju realized the truth in Mina’s words. By sharing the mangoes, he had gained something far more valuable than the fruit itself—friendship and the joy of giving.

From that day on, Raju became known as the generous monkey, always eager to share his discoveries with others. The mango tree flourished, its branches heavy with fruit, a symbol of abundance and the happiness found in sharing.

And so, the story of Raju and the mangoes became a cherished tale in the forest, a reminder of the importance of generosity and the joy that comes from sharing with others.

The End.