Tantri Tale

North face, Temple 2, Nalanda
7th century

In this Tantri tale, the turtle is escaping from hunters (not shown) thanks to two geese, who bear him aloft on a stick that he is grasping with his jaws. Unfortunately he opened his mouth to boast of the escapade, which caused him to fall to his death and be cut up for food by the hungry boy and girl below (continuous narrative). This might be a modern copy; workmen are currently restoring the frieze. An extended version of the story can be found on the staircase of Mendut Temple in Java.