Birbal Visits Iran

Emperor Akbar had an important courtier called Birbal. Birbal was very popular for his matchless wisdom and high sense of humour. It interested the king of Iran. “I want to meet this guy Birbal and test his intelligence. Invite him.” He ordered.

Akbar, handing over the royal invitation to Birbal, said, “My friend, the king of Iran has invited you to test your intelligence. Let your voyage fetch yet another claim to your name and fame.” Back at home, with his mind busy, Birbal packed for the voyage.

Meanwhile, the king of Iran decided to play a prank. HE made five of his minister’s dress like him in royal costumes.

The moment Birbal reached Iran, he was ushered to the court where six kings were seated. ‘This is it, A test for me to find the right king.” Birbal thought.

Birbal looked at them carefully, then stepping in front of one of them, he bowed, saying, “Salutations my King…”

“Wow, great, “beamed the real king. “But how did you find out!” he asked,

“From your body language” chuckled Birbal. “Though wearing royal costumes, the others sat still with their hands on the armrest, but only you sat tapping your chin.”

“Excellent, praised the king, No wonder you are known as the most intelligent of all.”

Pleased with Birbal, the king rewarded him as he said, “Birbal, I wish I had a genius like you in my kingdom. I want you to stay with us for a few days…” Birbal thanked the king, feeling happy that he added pride to his motherland.

The End.

Akbar Misses Birbal

One morning Akbar came to court looking very dull. “O King, you look tired with puffy eyes. What’s wrong?” asked Birbal casually.

“How dare you say that I don’t look good this morning?” yelled Akbar. “You lack basic manners and I don’t want you here anymore. Get out!”

image source: google images

There was total silence as Birbal walked out never to return. A week later, Akbar felt sad for his outburst and sent his guards to fetch Birbal. Alas, he was nowhere to be found. “How do I find Birbal?” mused Akbar. Finally he came up with a smart plan.

The next day Akbar announced. “The man who can answer this riddle will be rewarded handsomely. He must walk to the palace tomorrow morning half in shade and half under the sun.” Many tried, but could not succeed.

At last an old farmer came carrying a cot, “Your highness,” he went on. “The rope in this cot provides me half shade and the gap in between allows the sun light. So I have fulfilled your conditions.”

Akbar understood that he was sent by Birbal. “I ‘ll give you the reward. But, before that show me who gave you this idea?” he asked. The farmer took Akbar to Birbal.

Akbar embraced Birbal and took him back to the palace.

The End

Birbals Choice

One day King Akbar was feeling bored, he loved to think up riddles for his courtiers to answer. ‘The only person in my court who can answer my questions is Birbal. He’s  a clever guy and I really enjoy his wisdom,’ thought Akbar.

“Birbal, I have a riddle for you,” said Akbar.

image source: google images

“If you were given a choice between justice and a bag of gold coins, what would you choose?”

“That’s simple, your majesty. I would choose the gold coins, of course,” answered Birbal.

There was a silence in the court. The courtiers were shocked at this answer.

“He chose money over justice. Can you believe it? Birbal is greedy! “ shouted the courtiers. Even to Akbar this answer was disappointed.

“What? How could you choose the gold coins, Birbal?”

“I never expected you to be greedy like the others. I thought you would choose justice over gold,” said the king finally when he had gotten over his shock.

“Your highness,” said Birbal, smiling, “I asked you what I do not have. In your kingdom, there’s justice for everyone. So, I asked you for gold! “

Delighted with this answer, Akbar gave Birbal a bag of gold coins.

The End