Long ago, in a dense forest, birds used to hold a council to discuss their problems. Animals would convey their troubles to the king, who would then find a solution. However, there was a forest where the king, Garuda, was devoted only to the worship of Lord Vishnu. This left the other birds distressed. In frustration, birds like the swan, parrot, koel, and dove gathered for a common assembly.
In the assembly, all the birds collectively expressed their discontent, stating that their king, Garuda, paid no attention to them. At that moment, the peacock suggested seeking a solution in the divine realm of Lord Vishnu. The birds agreed, and a new proposal was put forward by the hoopoe bird. The cuckoo and the rooster supported the idea. After prolonged discussions,
the distressed birds unanimously decided to choose a new king.
With the decision to choose a new king, daily meetings were held to determine who would be the rightful ruler. After many days of deliberation, the birds unanimously chose the owl as their new king. Preparations for the owl’s coronation began. Holy water from various pilgrimage sites was brought, and the king’s throne was adorned with pearls.
After all the arrangements were made, the day for the owl’s coronation arrived. Everything was set, with the peacock and rooster reading mantras. Just before the coronation, two crows went to the owl and the peacock, saying that they needed to go to the Laxmi temple for a special puja before the coronation. The owl, without suspicion, left with the crows for the puja.
Meanwhile, a crow had come to the forest and recited a mantra to the birds, instigating them to choose a new king. The news of the coronation spread quickly, and the birds were left without a leader. When the owl and the two crows returned, they found the place deserted. Distressed, the owl sought out his companions, and they flew together to find the missing birds.
While searching, the owl’s friend saw a crow and asked him about the events. The crow revealed that the crow who came to the forest had misled them. Realizing their mistake, the owl proclaimed, “From today, crows will be our enemies, and this enmity will never end.” With this declaration, the owl flew away.
The threat from the owl lingered, and the crows were left in anguish. Since then, owls and crows have been sworn enemies, taking every opportunity to harm each other.
Moral of the story:
Interfering in others’ affairs can have serious consequences. Meddling in the work of others can lead to long-lasting enmity and regret. It is essential to mind our own business and avoid unnecessary interference in the affairs of others.
