The animal whose name comes from the Sanskrit word for "to steal" is the mongoose. In Sanskrit, the word for mongoose is "nāgaraḥ", which is derived from the root word "nigrah" meaning "to steal". This is fitting as mongooses are known for their quick and stealthy movements when hunting for food.

There are several species of mongooses found across Africa, Asia, and Europe. They are small carnivorous mammals that belong to the family Herpestidae. Mongooses are known for their agility, sharp claws, and keen sense of smell, which all help them in catching prey such as insects, small birds, rodents, and even snakes.

One of the most famous stories involving mongooses is the ancient Indian fable of "The Brahmin and the Mongoose". In this tale, a Brahmin leaves his infant son in the care of a mongoose while he goes out to fetch water. When he returns, he sees the mongoose with blood on its mouth and assumes it has attacked his son. In a fit of rage, the Brahmin kills the mongoose, only to discover that it had actually saved his son from a snake. The story teaches a valuable lesson about jumping to conclusions and the loyalty of animals.

In many cultures, mongooses are seen as symbols of courage, quick thinking, and adaptability. They have also been used in various forms of literature and entertainment, such as Rudyard Kipling's "Rikki-Tikki-Tavi", a story about a mongoose who protects a family from a group of venomous snakes.

Overall, the mongoose is a fascinating animal with a unique name derived from the Sanskrit word for "to steal". Their agility, intelligence, and hunting skills have made them a popular subject in folklore, mythology, and cultural traditions around the world. So, the next time you see a mongoose darting across your path, remember its origins in the ancient language of Sanskrit and its reputation as a skilled thief in the animal kingdom.

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