Kind Words for Nanda

Nanda was a strong white ox with brown ears. His farmer brushed his coat every evening. Together they carried grain along the village road and rested beneath a neem tree.

The farmer grew proud of Nanda’s strength. At the market, he promised that Nanda could pull several empty carts together. The neighbors arranged a small trial on level ground.

A crowd gathered around the carts. Wanting to impress everyone, the farmer began shouting rude commands. Nanda’s ears drooped. His familiar friend sounded like a stranger that morning.

Nanda stood quite still. The carts did not move an inch, and the trial ended. The farmer went home disappointed, wondering why his dependable companion had refused to help.

That evening, Nanda spoke softly. “You usually treat me kindly. Today you called me names. My strength has not disappeared, but I could not work happily while being insulted.”

The farmer listened without arguing. He apologized and placed fresh fodder before Nanda. “I forgot that you are my partner,” he admitted. “Tomorrow I will remember it properly.”

The next morning, he asked Nanda whether he wished to try again. Nanda nodded. The farmer fitted the harness carefully and hung a light flower garland around his neck.

The farmer removed the loose garland before the trial. He stood beside Nanda and said, “Good friend, let us begin.” His hand rested gently on the ox’s shoulder.

Nanda leaned into the harness and stepped forward. Wheels rolled one after another. The little train of carts moved smoothly down the road while everyone clapped for both partners.

Afterward, the farmer thanked Nanda instead of boasting. They shared a quiet rest under the neem tree. From then on, respect traveled with every load they carried together.