The Boy Who Loved Birds

Little Arjun lived in a small village nestled in the foothills of the mountains. Ever since he was a young boy, he had loved watching and listening to the birds that filled the trees around his family's modest home.

The songs of the bright green parakeets as they swooped and swirled through the orchards filled him with joy. The coos of the plump gray doves who perched on the roof warmed his heart. And nothing made him happier than spotting the brilliant blue kingfishers that darted above the river near his house.

Every morning, Arjun would wake before the rest of his family to venture out into the fresh morning air and marvel at the birds flitting about. The early songs of the bulbuls, barbets, and sunbirds were like music to his ears. He would imitate their calls, whistling and chirping right back to them.

One day, as Arjun was wandering along the riverbank, he came across a beautiful blue and orange bird he had never seen before. It had a long, curved beak and a flowing tail that trailed elegantly behind it. He was mesmerized by its graceful movements and musical call.

Arjun began visiting the riverside every day, hoping to catch another glimpse of the mysterious newcomer. He started leaving out little piles of grain, fruit, and seeds, hoping to attract the brilliant bird.

After many days, his patience paid off. The colorful bird returned, spotting the food Arjun had left. It alighted cautiously, cocking its crested head as it inspected the offering. Moving slowly so as not to frighten it away, Arjun crept closer. He was amazed to find himself face-to-face with a majestic Indian roller bird. Its piercing golden eyes seemed to stare right through him.

From that day onward, the Indian roller returned to Arjun's spot on the riverbank to feed. It no longer feared the boy who had proven himself a friend rather than a threat. Together they shared many happy days along the riverside, two kindred spirits delighting in the gifts of nature.