Hindu Tales

Delightful classic stories from ancient India. Includes questions after each chapter to enhance understanding and help readers apply the lessons learned. Hindu mythology is large body of traditional narratives related to Hinduism as contained in Sanskrit literature Ancient Tamil literature several other works, most notably the Bhagavata Purana, claiming the status of a Fifth Veda and other religious regional literature of South Asia. As such, it is a subset of mainstream Indian and Nepali culture. Rather than one consistent, monolithic structure, it is a range of diverse traditions, developed by different sects, people and philosophical schools, in different regions and at different times, which are not necessarily held by all Hindus to be literal accounts of historical events, but are taken to have deeper, often symbolic, meaning, and which have been given a complex range of interpretations. ** (Excerpt) Thanks to Mr. S. M. Mitra, the well-known Hindu psychologist and politician, who has done so much to draw more closely together the land of his birth and that of his adoption, I am able to bring within reach of English children a number of typical Hindu Tales, translated by him from the Sanskrit, some of them culled from the ancient classics of India, others from widely separated sources. The latter have hitherto been quite inaccessible to western students, as they are not yet embodied in literature, but have been transmitted orally from generation to generation for many centuries. These tales are not only of a kind to enchain the attention of children. They also illustrate well the close affinity between the two chief branches of the great Aryan race, and are of considerable ethical value, reflecting, as they do, the philosophy of self-realisation which lies at the root of Hindu culture. They have been used from time immemorial by the best teachers of India as a means of building up the personalities of the young and maintaining the efficiency of the adult. They serve in fact as text-books of the unique system of Mind-Training which has been in use in India from remote Vedic times, the root principle of which is as simple as it is effective. Hindu children become familiar at their mothers' knees with these stories, and are trained to answer questions on them, subtly chosen to suit their ages and call into action their mental faculties. Appealing to them as an amusing game, in which they vie with each other in trying to solve the problems presented for their consideration, the boys and girls, who are educated together till they are ten or twelve years old, early learn to concentrate their attention; whilst the simultaneous development of all their powers is encouraged and they are, imperceptibly to themselves led to control their thoughts and emotions from within, instead of having to obey orders which they do not understand from without. They realize indeed, whilst still in the nursery, the ideal suggested by the sage Vidura in the Mahabharata: "Seek to know thyself by means of thyself, keeping thy mind, intellect and senses, under control; for self is thy friend as it is also thy foe." About the Author: Siddha Mohana Mitra born in 1856 and died in 1925 Siddha Mohana Mitra was born in 1856 and died in 1925. He was of Hindu-Bengali origin and had lived in Hyderabad for a number of years. Mitra had been editor of the Deccan Post. From the begining of the twentieth century, Mitra wrote a number of books, published in London, on India. He was a regular contributor to the Asiatic Quarterly Review. He was a member of the Royal Asiatic Society and met a number of high-ranking Anglo-Indian officials. His book, Indian Problems, cited by Lord Curzon in a House of Lords debate in 1912 revealed Mitra's argument that the partition of Bengal had not had a detrimental effect on the region. George Birdwood wrote an introduction to this book, and encouraged Mitra to publish his work of fiction, Hindupore.

The worlds of gods, demons and humans meet and come alive in these twelve stories. The gods and goddesses, heroes and heroines, birds, beasts, demons, monsters, sages and warriors that inhabit these classical tales deliver the enduring wisdom of Hindu folklore. The stories are amongst the oldest in the world and belong to children everywhere, regardless of religion or country of birth. Each tale is illustrated with dramatic black-and-white pictures by Margaret Jones. These evocative illustrations capture the wealth and strength of the culture behind the stories and give the tales a magnificent setting worthy of their power and drama.

Eight tales which illustrate some of the most significant beliefs, values and traditions of the Hindus. 8 yrs+

"Hindu Tales from the Sanskrit" by various, compiled by N. D'Anvers is a book of nine stories that have been translated from their original language to introduce people from around the world to Hindu culture and traditions. The Magic Pitcher, The Story of a Cat, a Mouse, a Lizard and an Owl, A Royal Thief-Catcher, The Magic Shoes and Staff, The Jewelled Arrow, The Beetle and the Silken Thread, A Crow and His Three Friends, A Clever Thief, and The Hermit's Daughter are all magical tales that will take readers on adventures.

In Hindu Tales from the Sanskrit S. M. Mitra has collected and transcribed in English various fables and short stories from across the Sanskrit tradition. The stories’ characters range from kings to mice and they find themselves in all manner of situations, from the mundane to the magical. Regardless of the setting, there is a common thread of moral choices, whether personal or for family and friends, that runs through the collection. Siddha Mohana Mitra was an Indian author and political commentator, who was most famous at the time for his numerous books and articles for the British market on the colonial rule of India. This collection, edited by the author and translator Nancy Bell, was published in 1919, and was designed to be both appealing as a set of fairy tales and useful as a teaching tool for children’s moral perception of the world.

A collection of 9 Hindu tales for children. Each tale has a few questions at the end of it. The stories include: The Magic Pitcher: The Story of a Cat, a Mouse, a Lizard and an Owl; A Royal Thief-Catcher; The Magic Shoes and Staff; The Jewelled Arrow; The Beetle and the Silken Thread; A Crow and His Three Friends; A Clever Thief; and, The Hermit's Daughter.

"Hindu Tales from the Sanskrit" is a collection of captivating stories translated and compiled by D'Anvers. While not much is known about D'Anvers herself, her work in bringing these ancient Hindu tales to a wider audience is commendable. In this anthology, D'Anvers presents a selection of timeless tales from Sanskrit literature, drawing from the rich mythological and cultural traditions of Hinduism. The stories feature gods, goddesses, kings, demons, and ordinary people, offering insights into moral and philosophical teachings as well as the beauty of ancient Indian storytelling. Through her translations, D'Anvers brings these tales to life, capturing the essence and charm of the original texts. Her efforts introduce readers to the enchanting world of Hindu mythology, with its intricate narratives, symbolism, and profound wisdom. "Hindu Tales from the Sanskrit" serves as a gateway for readers to explore the rich cultural heritage of India and gain a deeper understanding of its folklore, customs, and spiritual beliefs. D'Anvers's work contributes to the preservation and dissemination of these ancient stories, ensuring that they continue to inspire and captivate audiences across generations.

Vikram and the Vampire: Classic Hindu Tales of Adventure, Magic, and Romance' is a captivating collection of stories compiled and translated by Richard F. Burton. Drawing from ancient Hindu folklore and mythology, the book presents a series of interconnected tales filled with adventure, supernatural beings, and tales of love. The central narrative revolves around King Vikramaditya, a wise and courageous ruler known for his intelligence and valor. He accepts a challenge from a mysterious vampire, who promises to share his profound knowledge with the king if Vikram can carry him on his back without uttering a word. Through these stories, readers are transported to a world of mythical creatures, magical artifacts, and extraordinary quests. The tales explore themes of bravery, loyalty, honor, and the triumph of good over evil. They also offer valuable lessons on morality and the consequences of one's actions. The author's translation captures the essence and richness of the original tales, imbuing them with his own flair and storytelling prowess.