An Indian mongoose named Rikki-Tikki-Tavi (from his chattering vocalizations) becomes the pet of an English family residing in India after they save him from drowning. He becomes friendly with some other creatures inhabiting their garden. However, the cobras Nag and Nagaina, are angered by the human family's presence in their territory and fear Rikki as a threat. That same day, a young dust-brown snake named Karait threatens to bite the family's child, Teddy. This infuriates Rikki into challenging Karait, unaware the smaller snake is as venomous as a cobra and faster. Despite the risk, Rikki emerges victorious and kills the snake, saving the child. But then the battles really begin as the pair of cobras plot to kill Rikki-Tikki-Tavi and the entire family. Fear not, good listeners, despite his small size and youth, Rikki is a worthy foe for them all.