Duradarshana: Foresight

The wise think ahead

Two tales showing the value of thinking ahead. The Cat's Judgement demonstrates how anticipating consequences leads to better decisions, while The Seeds of Tomorrow shows that today's actions shape tomorrow's outcomes.

The Cat's Judgement

A partridge and a rabbit both claimed the same burrow as their home. They argued and argued but couldn't agree.

"Let's find a judge!" said the partridge.

"Fine!" said the rabbit. "But who?"

Nearby, an old cat sat by the riverbank, eyes closed, appearing to meditate. The cat looked so peaceful and wise.

"Let's ask that holy cat," suggested the partridge. "He looks like a sage."

The rabbit agreed.

They approached the cat carefully. "Oh wise one," began the partridge, "we have a dispute. Will you judge between us?"

The cat opened one eye. "Ah, I am old and my hearing is poor. Come closer so I can hear your case."

They stepped closer.

"Closer still," said the cat. "My ears are truly failing."

They stepped even closer.

Suddenly, SWIPE! The cat caught them both. Dinner was served.

Tenali, who had been watching from a distance, shook his head sadly.

"If only they had thought ahead," he mused. "Why would a cat, a natural hunter of birds and rabbits, suddenly become a holy sage? They were so focused on winning their argument that they forgot to ask: 'What might happen next?'"

The Seeds of Tomorrow

A wealthy landlord named Somanna had two sons, Ranga and Ganga.

Somanna gave each son a bag of rare seeds.

"These are magical seeds," he said. "Plant them wisely, and they will make you wealthy. But they can only be planted in the next full moon, one month from now."

Ranga immediately started planning. Where was the best soil? How much water would they need? He talked to farmers, prepared the land, and built a fence to keep animals out.

Ganga laughed at his brother. "Why work so hard now? We have a whole month!" He went to parties, spent money, and enjoyed himself.