PAÑCHATANTRA (Pañcatantra), Skt., lit. pañcha: “five,” tantra: “textbook”; a famous, voluminous collection of moralizing stories and fables in five books from the fifth century, compiled to teach young princes political acumen and proper comportment.
The work was compiled by a brahman named Vishnusharman for the edification of a king’s sons. It was enlarged at various times, has often been imitated (Hitopadesha), and has been translated into many languages. It serves as the source for many widespread and popular tales that have since been incorporated into the popular literary tradition of many regions of the world.
Source: The Encyclopedia of Eastern Philosophy and Religion: Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, Zen. Shambhala Publications, Inc.
Documents on Pañcatantra
Books on Pañcatantra
External links: Panchatantra