These Mythology stories teach morals and values.

According to the Rigveda, Indra, the King of Gods and the guardian of cattle, had a faithful companion in the form of a pet dog named Sarama, which means “fast-moving.” This association is reflected in the Sanskrit word for dog, “Sarameya,” which means “Born of Sarama.” Additionally, Indra also had a pet eagle named Suparna, meaning “well-feathered,” highlighting the diverse companionship enjoyed by the divine ruler.

Long ago, far from heaven, there was a tribe called the Panis. They didn’t get along with Indra and the Gods. Once, these troublemaking Panis stole the cows of Vrihaspati, a wise Guru of the gods, and hid them in a cave across the river. Indra sent his pet eagle to find the missing cows. Flying high above, Suparna spotted the cave. But the cunning Panis tempted her with tasty meat, and she kept quiet about what she found. Indra then turned to his other pet, Sarama, and ordered her to go and find the cows.

Using her sharp senses of hearing and smell, Sarama located the cave where the cows were hidden. She heard the cows mooing and detected the strong scent of cattle in the area. Sarama bravely crossed the river and reached the entrance of the cave where the stolen cows were kept.

The Panis also tried to sway Sarama, saying, “Sister! Don’t tell your master what you have found out.” But neither their sweet talk nor offers of meat could bribe Sarama. She remained loyal to her master and quickly returned to him, informing him of what she had discovered. Indra, upon learning of the situation, immediately set off to confront the Panis. He found and battled them, ultimately freeing the stolen cows. This ancient tale from the Vedic times highlights the dog’s reputation for loyalty and keen detection abilities.