A Gift from a Merchant
A rich merchant presented Akbar with a parrot, saying, “This parrot speaks beautifully and sings praises of your glory.” Akbar was pleased and placed the parrot in a golden cage.
The Parrot’s Silence
But after some days, the parrot stopped speaking. The emperor grew angry and summoned Birbal. Birbal observed and said, “Majesty, your guards scold and frighten the bird. How will it sing in fear?”
Gentle Treatment Restores Joy
When the parrot was treated with care, it began to sing again, joyfully praising Akbar.
Lesson to Be Learned
Just as a parrot thrives in love, a soul blossoms in an atmosphere of kindness. Devotional service cannot be forced; it arises from freedom and affection. Śrīla Prabhupāda said, “Chanting is a matter of love—not pressure. When the heart is softened, Kṛṣṇa dances on the tongue.”
