The Peacock's Lost Bride

High in the Himalayas, the birds gather on a bare rock plateau for a royal choosing. The Golden Mallard has granted his lovely daughter a rare gift: she may choose her own husband from among all the birds. Swans, peacocks, mallards, and many bright-winged creatures arrive in a grand assembly, each hoping to be seen, admired, and chosen.

Among them stands the peacock, dazzling with a jewel-blue neck, a lovely back, and feathers that stretch in brilliant color. When the princess fixes her choice on him, his moment of triumph seems complete. Yet joy quickly turns into vanity, and one reckless display before the whole gathering changes honor into shame.

Told in graceful rhyme across twenty-five illustrated chapters, this retelling brings the ancient Jataka tale to life with beauty, humor, and sharp wisdom. It is a story of splendor without restraint, a prize lost through foolish pride, and a royal judgment that shows why modest conduct matters more than outward brilliance.

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