In a small village, there lived a Brahmin, by the name of Mitra Sharma. He was a worshipper of Fire-God. One day, during monsoons, when the sky was overcast with cloud, he decided to conduct a certain sacrificial ritual. 
 
The Brahmin And The Crooks - Panchatantra Story PictureThe Brahmin travelled to a nearby village, to visit a devotee, to request for a goat that he will offer it as a sacrifice to the Gods. 
 
On his arrival, he requested the devotee, "Son, I want to perform a sacrificial ritual on this auspicious time. Please offer me with a well-fed goat." 
 
The devotee agreed and offered him with one of his best goats. 
 
The Brahmin started his journey homewards. He carried the goat on his shoulders, so that he did not have problems in controlling the animal on the way home. 
 
The Brahmin And The Crooks - Panchatantra Story PictureOn his way home, three crooks watched him from a distance. They were almost starving, and the Brahmin had a goat and he was all alone.