A young boy named Mowgli is found in a basket in the Indian jungle and adopted by a family of wolves. As he grows older, the wolves learn that the fierce tiger Shere Khan has returned to the jungle and pose a threat to Mowgli's life. To protect him, they decide to send Mowgli to the human village. Along his journey, Mowgli is accompanied by Bagheera, the wise and stern black panther who acts as his guide and protector. Despite Bagheera's efforts to keep him safe, Mowgli faces various challenges, including an encounter with Kaa, a hypnotic snake, who tries to devour him.

During his travels, Mowgli also befriends Baloo, a carefree bear who teaches him about the relaxed and joyful side of jungle life. Baloo and Mowgli develop a close bond, much to Bagheera's dismay. However, their adventure is interrupted when Mowgli is kidnapped by a group of monkeys led by King Louie, who wants to learn the secret of making fire from the boy. As Mowgli continues his journey, he learns important lessons about trust, friendship, and survival while coming to terms with his human heritage and future.