The Tale of Mandavisarpini the Flea and Agnimukha the Bug
In a certain country, nestled within the miniature world of bugs and fleas, there reigned a wise and kind-hearted king. His royal abode was adorned with opulence, and the pièce de résistance of his bedroom was an exquisite white silk sheet that graced his grand bed. In the folds of this luxurious sheet, a petite white flea had found her dwelling, and her name was Mandavisarpini.
Mandavisarpini was not an ordinary flea. She was a connoisseur of blood, and her favorite source was none other than the king himself. With grace and finesse, she would feed on the king’s blood, and in this peculiar occupation, she found happiness.
One fateful day, an uninvited guest crept into the king’s bedroom. This uninvited guest was none other than Agnimukha, a bug of dubious reputation. When Mandavisarpini spotted him, she couldn’t contain her dismay and exclaimed, “Agnimukha! What brings you here? Leave at once!”
Agnimukha, however, responded with unexpected wisdom, “Madam, even if one’s guest is of lowly status, a gracious host should extend a warm welcome. I believe in the principle that a lady householder should show kindness to all visitors, regardless of their caste or status. Instead of chasing me away, you should greet me warmly, offer a comfortable seat, inquire about my well-being, and share the latest news.”
Moreover, Agnimukha had another motive for his visit. “I have tasted various types of blood,” he confessed, “but the blood of a king, I assume, must be extraordinarily sweet. I have come here, famished and eager to experience it. Mandavisarpini, why should you savor the king’s blood all to yourself? Let me partake in this rare feast.”
Mandavisarpini hesitated, expressing her reservations. She reminded Agnimukha that she only drank the king’s blood when he was deep in slumber, while he, Agnimukha, had a penchant for biting like a sharp needle. Nonetheless, she made a proposition: “If you promise to wait until I have enjoyed my share of the king’s blood, then you may partake.”
Agnimukha eagerly agreed, swearing to abide by their agreement. Little did they know that their words would be put to the test very soon.
As they conversed, the king returned to his bedroom and settled onto his bed. Agnimukha’s mouth watered, and he couldn’t resist taking a bite of the king’s flesh, disregarding their agreement and the king’s conscious state. This act marked the turning point of their friendship.
The king, startled by the sharp pain, cried out for his servants, suspecting that he had been bitten. His call summoned a flurry of activity, as the servants rushed to inspect his bed.
In a desperate attempt to evade discovery, Agnimukha concealed himself in a corner of the bed. However, the vigilant servants soon discovered Mandavisarpini hiding among the folds of the sheets. Believing her to be the culprit, they swiftly eliminated her, putting an end to her life.
As Damanaka concluded his story, he imparted a valuable lesson, “Refrain from entertaining a person whose character is unknown. The bug was at fault, but instead, they killed the flea.”
The fable resonated with Pingalaka, prompting him to ponder its moral. Damanaka then shared a saying that reinforced the tale’s message, “He who forsakes his trusted allies and replaces them with outsiders shall meet a fate similar to King Kukudruma.”
The tale of Mandavisarpini the flea and Agnimukha the bug served as a reminder of the importance of trust, friendship, and the consequences of betraying them.
Read Few More Story For Bedtime
Explore Our Story Universe
So, are you ready to dive into a world where giggles grow on trees and bedtime is the best part of the day? Story For Bedtime is here to make bedtime brighter, dreams dreamier, and faces happier. Grab your coziest blanket, snuggle in, and let the laughter-laden tales begin!
Emma Thompson, A Struggling Artist
Emma Thompson, A Struggling Artist In a cozy little town nestled between rolling hills and babbling brooks, there lived a young girl named Emma Thompson. Emma had always been captivated by the beauty of the world around her, and from a young age, she had expressed her love for it through her art. With a …
Captain Marcus Nova, Space Explorer
Captain Marcus Nova, Space Explorer In the vast expanse of the universe, where stars twinkled like diamonds against the velvet canvas of space, there lived a bold and adventurous soul named Captain Marcus Nova. Marcus was not like other children his age; from the moment he gazed up at the night sky, he dreamed of …
Detective Maxwell Gray
Detective Maxwell Gray In the heart of a bustling city, where the streets buzzed with activity and the skyscrapers towered above like giants of glass and steel, there lived a young boy named Maxwell Gray. Maxwell had always been fascinated by mysteries and puzzles, and from the moment he could talk, he dreamed of becoming …
Ealdor, the Ancient Dragon
Ealdor, the Ancient Dragon In a land where legends whispered of ancient beings and forgotten magic, there existed a creature of awe-inspiring majesty – Ealdor, the ancient dragon. His scales gleamed like burnished gold, reflecting the light of the sun and the moon in equal measure. His eyes, deep and wise, held the wisdom of …
Pingback: Enchanted Bedtime Story: Nighttime Adventure of Luna and Star