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Coronation of the owl

Bharati Dayal

Crafts Museum

Crafts Museum
New Delhi, India

Once upon a time, all the birds of the forest decided to meet to discuss who should be their King since Garuda was no longer looking after them well. They debated: "Garuda, who is the king of all birds, is always busy serving his master. He has neither the time, nor the interest to care about us! Let us choose a new king from amongst us!" They started looking around. Suddenly everyone turned to the owl. He was powerful, had impressive features, and most importantly he could see at night, when they were most unsafe. They all agreed that the owl would be a good choice and started to prepare for his coronation. The built an elaborate throne and when the owl was being escorted to it, a crow arrived. He enquired curiously, "What is the reason for this lavish celebration?" The birds explained, "Garuda has no time for us. So we have denounced him and elected the owl to be our new King. Since you have just joined us, please tell us what you think.” The crow, known for his smartness, smiled and replied, "In my opinion, the owl should certainly not be crowned King! The owl is blind by day. And look at him – why have an ugly King, when birds are known for their beauty. What do we gain from electing a new King? We already have Garuda. The mere mention of his name keeps our enemies away!” On pondering the crow’s view, the birds were convinced, "He is right” they said. One by one, the birds flew away. Only the crow remained along with the owl and his wife who were still waiting to be crowned King and Queen. Unable to understand what had transpired in the commotion, the owl asked his wife, "What is happening? Why is the coronation yet to begin? Why have all the birds left?" His wife replied, "The crow seems to have convinced the others not to elect a new King. He has persuaded all to fly away. We should return home, too." On hearing this, the owl was very upset. He shouted to the crow, "You are a wicked bird. I have not harmed you in any way, yet you stopped me from being King.” From today, I end all friendly relationships between crows and owls. They will be enemies forever." The owl and his wife flew away. The crow, now all alone, started wondering, "Why did I speak? It was not necessary. Now, because of what I said, the mighty owls will always regard crows as their enemies.”

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  • Title: Coronation of the owl
  • Creator: Bharati Dayal
  • Location: Bihar
  • Physical Dimensions: Vegetable dyes and acrylic colours on handmade paper, 23 X 19 inches
  • Provenance: Bihar
  • Type: Madhubani Painting
Crafts Museum

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