Folktales of India - Tales from Sikkim - The Monk and the Ants

This tale comes from Sikkim and is about a gentle monk and his adventure with some very naughty ants. The Folktale has been inspired by the masks of Cham dance and a modern illustration style.

In this Sikkimese folktale, a devout monk worships the sacred Tormu—a traditional offering made of butter and rice. One day, an ant begins nibbling at it. The monk, showing compassion, gently places the ant outside. But soon, more ants arrive, repeating the act. Despite his calm demeanor, the monk removes them as well.

Feeling wronged, the ants report the incident to their leader. Enraged, the ant chief confronts the monk, who denies any harm. What follows is an unexpected battle—an army of ants swarms the monk in retaliation. Overcome by pain, the monk turns to divine intervention. In response, a divine force transforms his body into a flaming torch, sending the ants fleeing in fear.