Rikki-Tikki-Tavi” by Rudyard Kipling

Rikki-Tikki-Tavi” by Rudyard Kipling

The story begins after a flood washes a young mongoose named Rikki-Tikki out of his burrow. He is rescued by a British family in India—Teddy, his mother, and father. They nurse him back to health, and Rikki quickly becomes part of the household, curious and energetic, as all mongooses are.

While exploring the garden, Rikki meets two tailorbirds, Darzee and his wife, who warn him about the cobras living there. The garden is home to two deadly snakes, Nag and Nagaina, who consider themselves rulers of the garden. They see the humans and Rikki as threats to their power.

Rikki’s first act of bravery is killing a small but dangerous snake, Karait, who tries to bite Teddy. This proves his loyalty to the family. That night, Rikki overhears Nag and Nagaina plotting. They plan to kill the humans so that Rikki will leave and they can rule the garden freely. Nag decides to hide in the bathroom to attack Teddy’s father.

Rikki waits for the right moment and launches a fierce battle with Nag. After a long struggle, Rikki manages to kill him, saving the family. Teddy’s father fires a gun to make sure Nag is dead, but the main credit goes to Rikki.

The next day, Nagaina, furious at the death of her mate, plans revenge. She hides near the house’s veranda and prepares to strike Teddy. Darzee sings a song of triumph too soon, but Darzee’s wife helps Rikki by distracting Nagaina and showing him her hidden cobra eggs. Rikki smashes almost all of the eggs, leaving just one to lure Nagaina.

When Nagaina threatens Teddy, Rikki shows her the last egg. Distraught over losing her offspring, she grabs the egg and escapes into her underground burrow. Without hesitation, Rikki follows her inside. The family waits anxiously, fearing he may not return, since no animal has ever come out alive after chasing a cobra into its hole.

After a fierce and dangerous fight in the dark, Rikki emerges victorious—he has killed Nagaina too. The family and all the garden creatures rejoice. Rikki is now recognized as the protector of the house and garden, admired for his courage, loyalty, and determination.