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Tales and legends from India
A collection of twenty-five traditional tales from India, including folk tales, Jataka stories, and regional legends.
153 pages, Hardcover
Published January 1, 1982
130 people are currently reading
423 people want to read
About the author
Ruskin Bond
683 books3,581 followersRuskin Bond is an Indian author of British descent. He is considered to be an icon among Indian writers and children's authors and a top novelist. He wrote his first novel, The Room on the Roof, when he was seventeen which won John Llewellyn Rhys Memorial Prize in 1957. Since then he has written several novellas, over 500 short stories, as well as various essays and poems, all of which have established him as one of the best-loved and most admired chroniclers of contemporary India. In 1992 he received the Sahitya Akademi award for English writing, for his short stories collection, "Our Trees Still Grow in Dehra", by the Sahitya Akademi, India's National Academy of Letters in India. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1999 for contributions to children's literature. He now lives with his adopted family in Landour near Mussoorie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
December 10, 2025
With Ruskin Bond. The Man who gave me so much,,,,
Tales and Legends of India is a captivating retelling of myths, folktales, and traditional stories from different regions of India.
Ruskin Bond steps into the role of a cultural storyteller in this collection, bringing together narratives that are centuries old yet still resonate with modern readers.
What makes the book special is Bond’s signature simplicity, which transforms these ancient tales into accessible, engaging, and emotionally rich stories.
Bond draws from a wide range of sources—Hindu mythology, tribal folklore, regional legends, moral parables, and heroic sagas. The stories feature gods and demons, wise kings, fearless warriors, clever tricksters, loyal animals, and ordinary people thrust into extraordinary circumstances.
Yet Bond retells them not as lofty epics but as human stories full of humour, wonder, and wisdom.
One of the standout qualities of the book is Bond’s ability to distil complex myths into concise narratives without losing their essence. He respects the emotional and moral core of each tale while trimming away unnecessary complexity.
This makes the collection ideal for younger readers discovering Indian mythology for the first time, as well as adults revisiting familiar stories with fresh eyes.
Bond’s prose is gentle and evocative. His descriptions bring to life the timeless landscapes of Indian legend—snow-clad mountains, sprawling kingdoms, enchanted forests, and sacred rivers.
Yet he never overwhelms the narrative with detail. Instead, he allows the stories to breathe, letting the characters and events take centre stage.
The themes explored in the book—courage, loyalty, morality, fate, love, and the eternal struggle between good and evil—are universal. Bond highlights these themes through relatable storytelling rather than sermonising.
A tale of a devoted animal might teach loyalty; a trickster’s story might celebrate wit; a heroic battle may underscore justice. The moral lessons arise naturally through the events.
Bond also brings humour into unexpected places. Even ancient legends gain a touch of lightness through his tone. Characters crack jokes, complain, boast, or stumble into trouble in ways that feel entirely human.
This humour makes the stories memorable and prevents them from becoming overly solemn.
Another strength of the collection is its diversity. Bond does not restrict himself to well-known myths like those from the Ramayana or Mahabharata (though he includes some). He incorporates lesser-known folktales from tribal communities, Buddhist legends, and stories passed orally from one generation to another.
This broadens the reader’s understanding of India’s storytelling heritage.
At its heart, the collection celebrates the imaginative richness of India. Bond reminds us that myths are not just stories—they are reflections of collective hopes, fears, and values. Through these tales, we glimpse the moral imagination of ancient India and the timeless human qualities that bind us across centuries.
Tales and Legends of India succeeds beautifully as both an educational resource and a pleasurable reading experience.
It captures the magic of storytelling, transporting readers to a world where gods walked the earth, animals spoke with wisdom, and ordinary people achieved extraordinary feats.
Most recommended.
Tales and Legends of India is a captivating retelling of myths, folktales, and traditional stories from different regions of India.
Ruskin Bond steps into the role of a cultural storyteller in this collection, bringing together narratives that are centuries old yet still resonate with modern readers.
What makes the book special is Bond’s signature simplicity, which transforms these ancient tales into accessible, engaging, and emotionally rich stories.
Bond draws from a wide range of sources—Hindu mythology, tribal folklore, regional legends, moral parables, and heroic sagas. The stories feature gods and demons, wise kings, fearless warriors, clever tricksters, loyal animals, and ordinary people thrust into extraordinary circumstances.
Yet Bond retells them not as lofty epics but as human stories full of humour, wonder, and wisdom.
One of the standout qualities of the book is Bond’s ability to distil complex myths into concise narratives without losing their essence. He respects the emotional and moral core of each tale while trimming away unnecessary complexity.
This makes the collection ideal for younger readers discovering Indian mythology for the first time, as well as adults revisiting familiar stories with fresh eyes.
Bond’s prose is gentle and evocative. His descriptions bring to life the timeless landscapes of Indian legend—snow-clad mountains, sprawling kingdoms, enchanted forests, and sacred rivers.
Yet he never overwhelms the narrative with detail. Instead, he allows the stories to breathe, letting the characters and events take centre stage.
The themes explored in the book—courage, loyalty, morality, fate, love, and the eternal struggle between good and evil—are universal. Bond highlights these themes through relatable storytelling rather than sermonising.
A tale of a devoted animal might teach loyalty; a trickster’s story might celebrate wit; a heroic battle may underscore justice. The moral lessons arise naturally through the events.
Bond also brings humour into unexpected places. Even ancient legends gain a touch of lightness through his tone. Characters crack jokes, complain, boast, or stumble into trouble in ways that feel entirely human.
This humour makes the stories memorable and prevents them from becoming overly solemn.
Another strength of the collection is its diversity. Bond does not restrict himself to well-known myths like those from the Ramayana or Mahabharata (though he includes some). He incorporates lesser-known folktales from tribal communities, Buddhist legends, and stories passed orally from one generation to another.
This broadens the reader’s understanding of India’s storytelling heritage.
At its heart, the collection celebrates the imaginative richness of India. Bond reminds us that myths are not just stories—they are reflections of collective hopes, fears, and values. Through these tales, we glimpse the moral imagination of ancient India and the timeless human qualities that bind us across centuries.
Tales and Legends of India succeeds beautifully as both an educational resource and a pleasurable reading experience.
It captures the magic of storytelling, transporting readers to a world where gods walked the earth, animals spoke with wisdom, and ordinary people achieved extraordinary feats.
Most recommended.
May 19, 2021
‘’Give to others, and the gods will give to you’’
Ruskin Bond’s Tales and Legends of India, this time different in genre from his other books of nature and children’s stories, comes a compilation of 25 tales of epic (illustrated with black and white paintings), folktales and mythical fables all wrapped up in sweet and simple Bond style.
- The first section deals with Tales from the epics, such as the tales of Savitri and Shakuntala. Readers will get to know about the stories from Purana and Mahabharata. Stories from Vishnu Purana and some sacred hymns of Rig Veda are also considered in this first chapter.
- Tales from the jataka – Stories from jataka, the great collection of Buddhist birth stories, in which Bodhisattva come to earth in various forms are included. Stories of the God Sakka (appearing a lot of times in jatakas), beast fables, famous story of the Crab and the Crane are well written in this second section.
Through his selected stories he tells us that All the folktales are interrelated in one way or another, be it in any mythology.
- In the third section, Tales from South India such as A demon for work and The tiger Kings gift narrating a tale of lord Pillaiyar (Lord Ganesa), some stories of buhiya Tribe from The Indian Antiquary, Some Mughal tales – The Lost Ruby, and some spooky ghost tales such as The Ghost and the idiot, some Persian folklores, folktales from Daskhina Desa (1905) and folktales on the Hindu concept of karma and rebirth are included which makes for a great read.
Well, these tales are very simple in nature and deal with mostly princes and princess of India giving a short moral lesson in the end. The book does not contain any stories that gives details of our Indian Gods and goddesses or anything of their origins. There are just small tales picked randomly from the Indian scriptures and jotted down by the author in his own simple way. If you want to enjoy some mystical tales upon a lovely evening then this is the book for you.
Bond in his book has tried to include tales’ representative of different parts of the country, of followers of different faiths, of tribal peoples, kings and commoners. He in his efforts have also provided the notes and sources in detail from which the book is taken. India is more than a land – it is an atmosphere – and this book is designed to give the reader the feel of India and recapture some of its old magic.
May the Eternal dispenser of all good thus deal with his servants.
Ruskin Bond’s Tales and Legends of India, this time different in genre from his other books of nature and children’s stories, comes a compilation of 25 tales of epic (illustrated with black and white paintings), folktales and mythical fables all wrapped up in sweet and simple Bond style.
- The first section deals with Tales from the epics, such as the tales of Savitri and Shakuntala. Readers will get to know about the stories from Purana and Mahabharata. Stories from Vishnu Purana and some sacred hymns of Rig Veda are also considered in this first chapter.
- Tales from the jataka – Stories from jataka, the great collection of Buddhist birth stories, in which Bodhisattva come to earth in various forms are included. Stories of the God Sakka (appearing a lot of times in jatakas), beast fables, famous story of the Crab and the Crane are well written in this second section.
Through his selected stories he tells us that All the folktales are interrelated in one way or another, be it in any mythology.
- In the third section, Tales from South India such as A demon for work and The tiger Kings gift narrating a tale of lord Pillaiyar (Lord Ganesa), some stories of buhiya Tribe from The Indian Antiquary, Some Mughal tales – The Lost Ruby, and some spooky ghost tales such as The Ghost and the idiot, some Persian folklores, folktales from Daskhina Desa (1905) and folktales on the Hindu concept of karma and rebirth are included which makes for a great read.
Well, these tales are very simple in nature and deal with mostly princes and princess of India giving a short moral lesson in the end. The book does not contain any stories that gives details of our Indian Gods and goddesses or anything of their origins. There are just small tales picked randomly from the Indian scriptures and jotted down by the author in his own simple way. If you want to enjoy some mystical tales upon a lovely evening then this is the book for you.
Bond in his book has tried to include tales’ representative of different parts of the country, of followers of different faiths, of tribal peoples, kings and commoners. He in his efforts have also provided the notes and sources in detail from which the book is taken. India is more than a land – it is an atmosphere – and this book is designed to give the reader the feel of India and recapture some of its old magic.
May the Eternal dispenser of all good thus deal with his servants.
August 28, 2020
This book brought back so many memories and ofcourse another reminder as to why Ruskin Bond is everyone's favourite ❤️
Also I completed my reading challenge 4 months in advance!!
Also I completed my reading challenge 4 months in advance!!
Read
December 29, 2022The Independence day🇮🇳 pick for the @ruskinbondbookclub , Tales and Legends from India by Ruskin Bond was a delightful read.
A collection of tales and legends from the people of different parts of the country, faiths and statuses, this one reminded me of the folktales my mother used to tell me when I was a kid.
Something that I absolutely adored about the book was that each tale has its reference i.e. where it's been chosen from.
A collection of tales and legends from the people of different parts of the country, faiths and statuses, this one reminded me of the folktales my mother used to tell me when I was a kid.
Something that I absolutely adored about the book was that each tale has its reference i.e. where it's been chosen from.
January 22, 2021
A very late read for me( should have read this between 10 to 15 years of age), nevertheless it will teach you many things, I will recommend such moral tales to be read by all at regular intervals, to know about our culture and what is philosophy of real life..
I pity the 2k kids were not taught these as a part of the curriculum.
Ruskin Bond brings in the tales from Mahabharata and from folklore of various regions. You will become a child again reading this, and get hold of child like inquisitiveness again..
Though it was a short read, I liked this book.
I pity the 2k kids were not taught these as a part of the curriculum.
Ruskin Bond brings in the tales from Mahabharata and from folklore of various regions. You will become a child again reading this, and get hold of child like inquisitiveness again..
Though it was a short read, I liked this book.
March 22, 2018
Date read: 14.09.2017
Date of review: 22.03.2018
Rating: 4/5
Story:
Tales and Legends from India is a book which comprises different sets of tales from the folklore and mythology of India, including tales from the Mahabharata, Panchtantra, etc. These have been curated and composed carefully, and brought delight to me, for these stories have remained consistent throughout my childhood. It was like a nostalgic trip, which ended up adding fresh memories. The book consists of beautifully made illustrations of characters and scenes, a very pleasing aspect.
Writing Style:
Ruskin Bond is the most delightful writer Indian literature has come across. His language is simple, yet profound, and as I read his words, I was transported to his own emotions for these tales, as he'd heard them since he was a child too, and subsequently over the years as well.
Will I recommend it?
Yes! It's lovely, and it's a light read that you can turn to, anytime.
Favourite Quote:
Happy Reading!
-Love, Devashree
Date of review: 22.03.2018
Rating: 4/5
Story:
Tales and Legends from India is a book which comprises different sets of tales from the folklore and mythology of India, including tales from the Mahabharata, Panchtantra, etc. These have been curated and composed carefully, and brought delight to me, for these stories have remained consistent throughout my childhood. It was like a nostalgic trip, which ended up adding fresh memories. The book consists of beautifully made illustrations of characters and scenes, a very pleasing aspect.
Writing Style:
Ruskin Bond is the most delightful writer Indian literature has come across. His language is simple, yet profound, and as I read his words, I was transported to his own emotions for these tales, as he'd heard them since he was a child too, and subsequently over the years as well.
Will I recommend it?
Yes! It's lovely, and it's a light read that you can turn to, anytime.
Favourite Quote:
Happy Reading!
-Love, Devashree
August 14, 2019
Very silly stories without logic
I hated this book, even though I love Ruskin Bond. All the stories are silly, without logic or depth. Please don't put your time in reading this. I seriously doubt whether such nonsense could be called stories. It is as if a child has recited these stories as it goes.
I hated this book, even though I love Ruskin Bond. All the stories are silly, without logic or depth. Please don't put your time in reading this. I seriously doubt whether such nonsense could be called stories. It is as if a child has recited these stories as it goes.
July 24, 2019
The best part about reading Ruskin bond is the simplicity which he brings into his writing. Somehow the simplicity keeps you attached throughout. This book is more like a compilation of ancient wisdom but told in a way that everybody can understand.
December 8, 2020
An assortment of stories from Hindu mythology, Jataka and other folklore. The book is more suited for children. A quick read.
January 3, 2021
The first section of the book was informative for me since I am not very well read in the genre of Indian Mythology. Reading about the Gods, and their divine powers, famous sages, and their curses, and the tragedies and lives of young princes and princesses, was all very fun.
The second section was a bit different and was more about folktales including animals and mortal humans. This section included tales of friendships, pride, and humility. Also, includes a tale that shows the perception of beauty among us mortals.
The third and final section, my least favourite one, included tales that are super weird and made no sense to me. However, my most favourite tale in this entire book is under this section.
I was foolishly expecting the magic of Bond’s writing in this book which is why I feel a bit disappointed. I’m also astonished by how these tales are actually aimed at children and how backdated most of these are. Not all of these tales are required reading for children and can be easily skipped. Not in this era anyways.
I did not like how most of these tales include princesses only to get them married off to princes or how they affect the lives of their husbands. There’s only one tale of a brave princess but even she had to prove the value of her words (as a male warrior) to be taken seriously by her husband. As mentioned earlier, these tales are quite backdated and I believe we need newer, better, and more appropriate stories for the children of this era.
Psst, and I hope I get to write some of them myself.
My most favourite tale, A Battle of Wits, was a delight to read. Even though it includes regional biases, it ends up standing against it. There’s at least something to learn from this tale. And the tales from Indian Mythology in the first section of this book can be read in other books as well, I think.
NOTE: The illustrations in this book were astounding. I spent more time staring at these pictures than reading the book!
The second section was a bit different and was more about folktales including animals and mortal humans. This section included tales of friendships, pride, and humility. Also, includes a tale that shows the perception of beauty among us mortals.
The third and final section, my least favourite one, included tales that are super weird and made no sense to me. However, my most favourite tale in this entire book is under this section.
I was foolishly expecting the magic of Bond’s writing in this book which is why I feel a bit disappointed. I’m also astonished by how these tales are actually aimed at children and how backdated most of these are. Not all of these tales are required reading for children and can be easily skipped. Not in this era anyways.
I did not like how most of these tales include princesses only to get them married off to princes or how they affect the lives of their husbands. There’s only one tale of a brave princess but even she had to prove the value of her words (as a male warrior) to be taken seriously by her husband. As mentioned earlier, these tales are quite backdated and I believe we need newer, better, and more appropriate stories for the children of this era.
Psst, and I hope I get to write some of them myself.
My most favourite tale, A Battle of Wits, was a delight to read. Even though it includes regional biases, it ends up standing against it. There’s at least something to learn from this tale. And the tales from Indian Mythology in the first section of this book can be read in other books as well, I think.
NOTE: The illustrations in this book were astounding. I spent more time staring at these pictures than reading the book!
July 20, 2023
This is a captivating collection of timeless stories that will transport you to the enchanting world of Indian folklore. It delves into the rich tapestry of India's cultural heritage, presenting a delightful array of myths, legends, and folktales.
What makes this compilation truly exceptional is the seamless blend of fantasy and reality. From brave warriors and cunning demons to mythical creatures and benevolent deities, each story holds a profound message that resonates with you. Like always, Bond's ability to craft narratives that transcend time and space is commendable, offering a glimpse into the ethos of ancient India.
The stories themes touch upon universal aspects of human nature, exploring the depths of love, sacrifice, bravery, and morality. Moreover, the vivid descriptions of landscapes and settings added an immersive quality to the tales, making me feel as if I was witnessing the events.
Beyond the enjoyment of reading, it also serves as an educational resource, introducing readers to the cultural diversity of the country. The book fosters an appreciation for Indian traditions, customs, and beliefs, promoting cross-cultural understanding.
While avoiding commenting on the author's writing style for the obvious reasons, it is worth mentioning that the book is an excellent addition to any literary collection. Whether you are a fan of mythology, folklore, or simply seeking an enchanting read, this book promises to be a delightful journey into the heart of Indian storytelling. Highly recommended for anyone interested in exploring the magic and wisdom of ancient tales. Goodluck!
What makes this compilation truly exceptional is the seamless blend of fantasy and reality. From brave warriors and cunning demons to mythical creatures and benevolent deities, each story holds a profound message that resonates with you. Like always, Bond's ability to craft narratives that transcend time and space is commendable, offering a glimpse into the ethos of ancient India.
The stories themes touch upon universal aspects of human nature, exploring the depths of love, sacrifice, bravery, and morality. Moreover, the vivid descriptions of landscapes and settings added an immersive quality to the tales, making me feel as if I was witnessing the events.
Beyond the enjoyment of reading, it also serves as an educational resource, introducing readers to the cultural diversity of the country. The book fosters an appreciation for Indian traditions, customs, and beliefs, promoting cross-cultural understanding.
While avoiding commenting on the author's writing style for the obvious reasons, it is worth mentioning that the book is an excellent addition to any literary collection. Whether you are a fan of mythology, folklore, or simply seeking an enchanting read, this book promises to be a delightful journey into the heart of Indian storytelling. Highly recommended for anyone interested in exploring the magic and wisdom of ancient tales. Goodluck!
April 16, 2024
Ruskin Bond presents in 'Tales and Legends from India' a selection of stories found mainly in the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, introducing the characters that are in focus in these texts.
The unexpected turn of events in the stories is worth the reading. The magic of the landscapes, the wittiness of the characters transcends the stories.
Thank you Ruskin Bond for this little bouquet of beautiful stories.
The unexpected turn of events in the stories is worth the reading. The magic of the landscapes, the wittiness of the characters transcends the stories.
Thank you Ruskin Bond for this little bouquet of beautiful stories.
May 10, 2021
When u want a light read between heavy and intense reading, then this book fits in.
Possibly this is a book from children's collection, which I read a little late 😝
Short and simple stories. Don't know why, but this book reminded me of my moral science text books of school days.
Simple English and easy narration is what made me feel the book is good.
Possibly this is a book from children's collection, which I read a little late 😝
Short and simple stories. Don't know why, but this book reminded me of my moral science text books of school days.
Simple English and easy narration is what made me feel the book is good.
February 20, 2022
Reminded me of my grandmoms tales
As a small kid, my dadi used to tell stories. I have been looking for Indian folk tales like those. This book though predominantly having tales from the Mahabharata and the Jatakas also has some folk stories. Easy to read book with short stories. Costs 0 with Prime on Kindle. Very much a recommended read.
As a small kid, my dadi used to tell stories. I have been looking for Indian folk tales like those. This book though predominantly having tales from the Mahabharata and the Jatakas also has some folk stories. Easy to read book with short stories. Costs 0 with Prime on Kindle. Very much a recommended read.
June 30, 2021
A nice little diversion to read some tales from the Indian epics, like the Mahabharata. Enjoyed the charming extracts and episodic stories interpreted and brought together sympathetically by an obvious expert.
September 26, 2017
Not an interesting read. Some stories are really good and some are dumb.
October 19, 2017
A curated collection of short stories of the Jataka and folk stories. Short 5 min reads.
July 31, 2019
Ok short stories
Good reads ...u can enjoy them once
Some incredible stories...writing is awesome.ruskin bond books are easy and flowy to raed
Good reads ...u can enjoy them once
Some incredible stories...writing is awesome.ruskin bond books are easy and flowy to raed
March 26, 2020
A great book by a legendary author
Excellent book for kids and adults alike. Brings out fond memories of childhood. Ruskin bond is a certified legend. A must read
Excellent book for kids and adults alike. Brings out fond memories of childhood. Ruskin bond is a certified legend. A must read
May 15, 2020
A very good collection of books of Indian tales. Many are about the wise and the clever.
June 22, 2020
Loved it.
It is a very beautifully written book . It has folklore and tales which are delighting to read for anyone who enjoys good English reading.
It is a very beautifully written book . It has folklore and tales which are delighting to read for anyone who enjoys good English reading.
July 26, 2020
Nice book with many short stories. Some stories towards the later part of the book are too simplistic.
June 7, 2021
Well written Indian mythological stories. Beginners friendly.
February 27, 2022
A collection of Short Tales of which few were nice to read .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 27, 2022
Really enjoyed this.
Looking forward to reciting these to my sons who love stories as well 😊
Looking forward to reciting these to my sons who love stories as well 😊
May 1, 2022
Good to explore some tales from India.
My favorite one is 'The lost ruby'.
My favorite one is 'The lost ruby'.
June 6, 2022
This collection with 25 stories from Epics, Jataka Tales, and Regional tales and legends. There is also information about the sources.
December 18, 2023
A real feel good light read!
June 20, 2020
Good one. I might have enjoyed the book more in my childhood though.😁
March 16, 2020
In his inimitable style Ruskin Bond renders the folk tales of India. Most he claims he has heard from his ayahs or nannies who took care of him as a child.
It makes a good reading to read the stories from the perspective of a person who is "technically" not and Indian and does not practice any of the religions from which these stories have been drawn.
A must read for fans of Ruskin Bond.
It makes a good reading to read the stories from the perspective of a person who is "technically" not and Indian and does not practice any of the religions from which these stories have been drawn.
A must read for fans of Ruskin Bond.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews