prevent the image from stretching and ensure it retains its original aspect ratio while fitting within its container, you can modify the CSS for the img element. The key is to use object-fit: cover; or object-fit: contain; based on your preference:

• object-fit: cover; will ensure that the image covers the entire container without stretching, but some parts of the image might be cropped.
• object-fit: contain; will ensure the whole image fits inside the container without cropping, but there might be empty space around