Indian Tales

Drawing from India's rich tradition of folklore, mythology and storytelling, the book presents sixteen varied tales that have been passed down through generations. Some stories are humorous and adventurous, while others carry sadness, moral lessons and timeless wisdom.

Written in an accessible style, the collection introduces young readers to the diverse cultural traditions and imaginative world of Indian tales. It is suitable for independent reading as well as family read-aloud sessions.

Romila Thapar is an eminent Indian historian and Professor Emerita at Jawaharlal Nehru University. She is internationally recognised for her scholarship on ancient Indian history and has authored several important works, including Aśoka and the Decline of the Mauryas and Early India. She has also written Indian Tales for younger readers. Penguin notes that she is a Fellow of the British Academy and received the Library of Congress Kluge Prize in 2008.

The book brings together sixteen stories drawn from India's storytelling heritage. Readers encounter legendary figures, kings and queens, heroes and heroines, gods and demons, as well as clever and memorable animals.

Among the stories are tales such as The Four Young Men and Sassi and Punnu, alongside stories connected with figures and traditions such as Vikramaditya, Birbal and other characters from Indian folklore. The tales explore courage, cleverness, love, loyalty, misfortune and the consequences of human choices.

Together, these stories offer young readers an entertaining introduction to the richness and diversity of Indian folklore while preserving the timeless charm and wisdom of traditional storytelling.