How the Birds Picked a King

One season, birds from every corner of the forest gathered beneath an ancient fig tree. They felt that their distant king, Garuda, was too busy to hear their everyday troubles. “Let us choose a leader who lives among us,” they said.

The birds noticed an owl sitting straight and still. His large eyes and solemn face looked impressive. Without asking many questions, they prepared garlands and a seat and began arranging a coronation.

Just then a crow arrived. “What qualities did you seek?” he asked. “Who has seen this owl settle a dispute, protect a nest, or listen to the smallest bird?” The gathering grew quiet. The crow spoke too sharply about the owl’s looks, and the owl felt deeply insulted.

A wise swan stepped between them. “The crow’s questions are useful, but unkind words can hide a good idea. The owl deserves respect, and the forest deserves a careful choice.”

The birds postponed the coronation. They asked each candidate to listen to problems and suggest fair solutions. The owl understood night dangers well; the crow noticed clever traps; the swan helped everyone speak calmly.

In the end, the birds formed a council instead of rushing to crown one ruler. Yet the owl never forgot the crow’s harsh words, and mistrust grew between their families. The birds learned two lessons: choose leaders by their actions, and offer honest advice without humiliation.