Top 15 Indian Mythological Stories For Kids With Moral

Every culture has its own mythology – a set of stories that involve heroic characters, mythical beasts, gods, advanced technology, and fantastic locations. While their validity is questionable, their existence shows the incredible fascination that we, as humans, have for these stories. Indian mythology contains a vast and ancient array of tales, which are stimulating, entertaining, and have a moral lesson behind them.

These mythological stories have been around for decades, been passed on from one generation to another and have narrated stories across cultures fostering unity and warmth as a community. It;s a way of feeling connected to your history, your family, your culture which serve as an anchor.

Also Read: Memorable Lord Ganesha Stories for Kids

What Do Children Learn From Mythology?

Mythology teaches moral values to children in a way that holds their interest. Here are some things that children imbibe from mythology.

1. Iterates Good vs Evil

Mythology teaches children the difference between good and evil, iterating, each time, the importance of good deeds. It also proves that good always conquers evil.

2. Encourages Imagination

Mythology is a world of its own, with advanced technology, mystic beings, and breathtaking imagery. This sets the minds of children running, as they imagine each thing they are told about. It also shows them that nothing is impossible, if you have a creative mind.

3. Exposes Kids to Culture

Children learn the importance and meaning of festivals and customs that are frequently seen in Indian culture. Mythology teaches them why things are the way they are, satisfying their curiosity and engaging their minds.

4. Teaches Respect

Respect goes hand in hand with discipline. Mythology teaches kids to respect their elders, teachers, and peers. This leads to better discipline in children.

5. Showcases the Power of Love

Whether it is love for family, teachers, God, Mythology teaches kids that love conquers all, and there’s nothing greater than staying true to the people you love, against all odds.

Also Read: Interesting Short Stories Of Ramayana for Children

Best Mythological Stories for Your Children to Read

Introducing your children to mythology will help them learn about their culture, faith, language, and ethical beliefs. You can also create some fond memories with your children by narrating these stories to them, which will not only develop their imaginative skills, but also linguistic abilities and good values. Here is a list of ten Hindu mythological stories for kids that detail the trials and tribulations of 10 different mythological characters and the lessons that can be learnt from them.

1. The Dedication of Ekalavya

Ekalavya was a young boy living with his tribe, deep in the forest. His aim in life was to become the finest archer the world had ever seen. However, when he asked to become Drona’s student, he was refused, due to the low status of his birth. Despite this, Ekalavya created a statue of Drona and practised archery before it, until he became incredibly skilled. However, when Drona encountered him and learned of his accomplishments, he was afraid that a tribal boy would surpass his best student, Arjuna. He demanded that Ekalavya sacrifice his own right thumb as payment for learning under his name. Without questioning Drona, Ekalavya immediately cut off his right thumb and gave it to him, and was, therefore, unable to become the best archer in the world.

Moral Lesson:

Your child will learn about hard work, respect and dedication, especially for teachers and instructors.

2. The Devotion of Surdas

Surdas was one of the greatest devotees of Lord Krishna. He loved Krishna so much that he wrote over a lakh of devotional songs in his honour. Surdas was a blind man, according to the story, who once took away Radha’s anklet when she was following him. When asked to return it, he refused, stating that he could not confirm her identity as he was blind. At this point, Krishna blessed him with sight, after which Surdas begged Krishna to take his sight away again. When asked why, he said that he had seen Krishna, and there was nothing else he wanted to see again.

Moral Lesson:

This story will teach your child to love unconditionally and exhibit devotion towards the things he/she cares about.

3. The Courage of Abhimanyu

Abhimanyu was one of the greatest warriors in the Kurukshetra war. While his mother, Subhadra, was pregnant with him, his father, Arjuna, narrated the Chakravyuha battle formation technique to her. Abhimanyu learnt the entire technique, from the womb, but fell asleep right before Arjuna revealed how to escape the formation. During the war, Abhimanyu was trapped inside the Chakravyuha created by the Kaurava army. Even though he didn’t learn how to escape, he gave up his life fighting for his parents and family.

Moral Lesson:

Abhimanyu’s sacrifice will teach your child about loyalty to family, bravery, dignity, and love.

4. The Integrity of Rama

Everyone knows of the Ramayana, the epic which chronicles the stories of the sixth incarnation of Mahavishnu, Lord Rama. In the Ramayana, Rama is forced to leave his kingdom and go into exile with his brother, Lakshmana, and wife, Sita. Near the end of his exile, Ravana, the king of Lanka, kidnaps his wife and holds her hostage. Facing all terrible odds, Rama manages to fight Ravana and his enormous army, and defeat them, rescuing his wife.

Moral Lesson:

The moral of this story is the bond shared between two brothers, and a husband and wife. It will teach your child about friendship, integrity, and love.

5. The Strength of Durga

When the asura-king Mahishasura defeats Indra, the king of the gods, and takes his place in heaven, the great goddess Durga is created from the divine energies of all the gods combined. She then takes on Mahishasura, the Buffalo Demon, and defeats him and his entire army, saving the world.

Moral Lesson:

Durga shows little boys and girls that women, too, possess great courage, strength and righteousness.

6. The Faith of Prahlada

Prahlada, the son of the demon Hiranyakashipu, was a great Vishnu devotee. However, his arrogant father hated Vishnu, as he considered himself to be the one true God, due to the boon he had received from Lord Brahma. He tried to have Prahlada killed by many methods, but Prahlada was always saved by Vishnu. After Hiranyakashipu’s last attempt on Prahlada’s life, he got killed by Narasimha, the man-lion incarnation of Vishnu.

Moral Lesson:

This story will teach children about the values of faith, devotion and patience.

7. The Focus of Arjuna

When the Pandavas were young, they trained under Drona, the master of combat. Drona wanted to test his pupils, so he stuck a toy bird in a tree and asked all of them to aim their bows at its eye. When he asked them what they could see, the Pandavas gave different answers, such as the bird, the leaves, the tree, and so on, and missed. Only Arjuna, without missing a beat, said he could see nothing more than the eye of the bird. Pleased, Drona asked Arjuna to shoot. Arjuna’s arrow pierced the bird’s eye, perfectly.

Moral Lesson:

This is a story about focus and determination, which will show your kids that knowing exactly what they want and working towards it will help them achieve their goals.

8. The Strength of Sita

After Rama and Sita returned to Ayodhya, they were crowned king and queen, and began a prosperous rule. However, rumours began to spread about Sita, who had lived with another man, Ravana (even though it was against her will). To control these rumours and ensure the continued faith of his subjects, Rama banished Sita to the forest, where she stayed with Valmiki. Here, she gave birth to twin boys and raised them as a single mother, all by herself.

Moral Lesson:

This story explains how, even in the face of such adversity, women can still be strong, brave, and independent.

9. The Loyalty of Shravana

Shravana was a poor teenage boy. helping his parents on a pilgrimage to all the religious sites in India. As they were old and blind, he was carrying them in two baskets slung over his shoulders. While crossing the forests of Ayodhya, Shravana is hit by a wayward arrow shot by Prince Dasharatha, and dies. Even with his dying breath, he begs Dasharatha to carry water to his thirsty parents.

Moral Lesson:

Shravana is the embodiment of kindness and loyalty. This story will help your children understand the virtues of compassion and taking care of one’s parents.

10. The Patience of Mandodari

Mandodari was the wife of Ravana. While he performed misdeeds and cruelties, she spent her days trying her best to convince him to be just and honourable. She even asked him to free Sita, although her advice fell on deaf ears. Till the end, she stayed loyal to her husband.

Moral Lesson:

This lesson teaches your children to be patient with loved ones, even if they are committing mistakes, without giving up on them. Loving someone means supporting them, even if not supporting their actions.

Indian mythological stories are an intricate tapestry with interwoven threads of politics, morality, philosophy, parenting, love, war and religion. These inspirational stories have inspired many for hundreds of years and will teach your child the many virtues and ethics required to live life as a compassionate and just person. Art is an extremely helpful medium through which a child can understand the world while sharpening her qualities. Encourage this development through engaging craft kits for your kid – this way, she can sharpen her physical and intellectual abilities in a way that is not boring or tiresome.

11. The Story of Lord Rama and the Golden Deer

Lord Rama, his wife Sita and his brother Lakshman were living in a forest as exiles. One day, a golden deer appeared in the forest, and Sita was enchanted by its beauty. She asked Rama to catch it for her. Rama left Lakshman to guard Sita while he went to catch the deer. In reality, the deer was a demon in disguise, and when Rama was away, the demon kidnapped Sita. Rama learned that giving in to desires can lead to dangerous consequences.

Moral Lesson
 The moral of the story is that greed and desire can lead to one’s downfall, and it is important to think before acting impulsively. Don’t let your desires cloud your judgement, be careful of what you wish for.

12. The Story of Lord Krishna and the Govardhan Hill

Once, Lord Krishna saved his village from a terrible storm by lifting the Govardhan Hill on his little finger. The villagers had been praying to the god Indra for protection, but Lord Krishna told them that it was the Govardhan Hill that protected them and not Indra. Lord Krishna taught the villagers that nature is powerful and should be respected.

Moral Lesson
Respect and protect nature, it is our duty to take care of our environment.

13. The Story of Lord Ganesha and the Race Around the World

Once upon a time, Lord Ganesha and his brother Lord Kartikeya were asked to race around the world. Lord Kartikeya started out on his peacock while Lord Ganesha rode on his mouse. Lord Kartikeya flew off on his peacock to finish the race, while Lord Ganesha stayed put. When asked why, Lord Ganesha said, “My parents are my world, and I won’t leave without their permission.” Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were so proud of their wise son that they crowned him the winner of the race.

Moral Lesson
Respect and love your parents, they are the most important people in your life.

14. The Story of the Tenali Raman and the Three Dolls

Tenali Raman was a clever court jester who could solve any problem. One day, the king gave him three dolls and asked him to find a way to make them stand together. Tenali Raman had a trick up his sleeve, and he placed the dolls in the hot sun. As the dolls melted and became one, they stood together. Tenali Raman taught us that sometimes, thinking out of the box can solve even the most challenging problems.

Moral Lesson
Think creatively and out of the box to solve problems.

15. The Story of Goddess Kali and the Demon Raktabija

The demon Raktabija had a special power – every time a drop of his blood fell to the ground, a new demon would arise. The gods were unable to defeat him, so they prayed to the goddess Kali for help. Kali drank all of Raktabija’s blood before it could touch the ground, and he was defeated. Kali taught us that bravery and determination can overcome even the most fearsome opponent.

Moral Lesson
Be brave and determined to overcome your fears and obstacles.

FAQs

1. What Is The Name Of Indian Mythology?

Well, my dear curious friend, the name of Indian mythology is Vedic mythology! It’s called that because it’s based on the four Vedas – Ṛig, Yajur, Sama, and Atharva Veda – which are the principal texts of ancient Indian civilization. So next time you’re asked this question at a party (or in your next online trivia game), you can confidently say that the name of Indian mythology is Vedic mythology!

2. Is Ramayana A Myth Or History?

Hey there, curious minds! This is a great question that sparks a lot of debate. Historians may not recognize Ramayana as a historical event, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s just a myth. After all, it was written by Valmiki thousands of years ago, and many scientists and historians are still arguing over possible evidence that suggests the events described in the epic actually took place in real life. So, whether it’s history or myth, the Ramayana remains a beloved and fascinating story for many. And speaking of stories, what’s your child’s favorite mythological tale? Let us know in the comments below!

3. Which Is The Most Popular Indian Mythological Story?

Well, if you’re looking for the most popular Indian mythological story, look no further than the Ramayana! It’s one of the oldest and most famous Indian epics, telling the story of Lord Rama and his wife Sita, who was kidnapped by the demon king Ravana. The epic follows Rama’s journey to rescue his beloved wife with the help of an army of monkeys and their courageous leader Hanuman. It’s a tale of love, sacrifice, and heroism that has captured the hearts and minds of generations of Indians. So, grab a copy and dive into this timeless classic with your grandchildren today!

4. Who Is The Hero Of Indian Mythology?

Ah, my curious friend, that’s a tricky question! Indian mythology is full of heroes, so it’s hard to choose just one. But if I had to pick, I would say that Arjuna is one of the most iconic heroes in Indian mythology. He’s one of the five Pandava brothers in the epic Mahabharata, and is known for his incredible archery skills and unwavering devotion to his duty. Arjuna is a complex character with many flaws and virtues, and his journey throughout the Mahabharata is a fascinating one that teaches us valuable lessons about duty, honor, and the consequences of our actions. But don’t just take my word for it – there are plenty of other amazing mythological stories in English that feature heroes of all kinds! So why not explore some of these short Indian mythological stories with morals and discover your own favorite hero?

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