he story of a cow, her calf and a tiger in the tradition of Kannada folklore moves anybody’s heart. It is sung by mothers to their children. An extremely simple story, but as extremely touching a story is showcased in the following passage:
It was evening. The cattle were returning home. Arbuta had gone without food for a week. He pounced on Punyakoti who had fallen behind other cows. Thinking of the calf back in the fold, the cow pleaded, “Give me some time. I will be back after feeding my calf.” The hungry tiger did not agree to give up his prey. The cow assured him, “Royal Tiger, I am speaking the truth. Don’t suspect my words. I swear in the name of God and my ancestors that I will surely return. I have only one tongue not two.” The cow’s earnest appeal had a magic spell on the tiger and he was kind enough to let her go. The other cows felt happy when Punyakoti returned to the fold safe, but Punyakoti had no time to spare. She went to the calf straight and said, “This is the last time, drink as much milk as you want.” She advised her dear child about the ways of the world; how to behave at home, in the forest and with the other cows. She requested the other cows to look after her calf as if it was their own. “Remember my child; never go near the hill over there. There is a fierce tiger”. Against the advice of the other cows she went back to the cave in the forest and told the tiger that she was ready and called upon him to satisfy his hunger by feasting on her. The tiger was surprised by the honesty of the cow. He thought it was better to end his own life than to slay Punyakoti. Full of remorse, he jumped from the hill and killed himself. Heavenly hosts welcomed the tiger.
So long as one has not become a child, one cannot expect divine illumination. Forget all