Stories about Akbar and Birbal

An Unusual ParadeBirbal once paraded through town with an empty water pot balanced on his head. People laughed, thinking he had gone mad. A Lesson in DisguiseBirbal later explained, “Many…

A Gentle TaskAkbar asked Birbal to explain the consequences of careless words. Birbal asked for a feather pillow, tore it open, and let the wind carry the feathers. Birbal’s RequestHe…

A Loud BoastOne nobleman in court was known for boasting often. One day he proclaimed, “My wealth, wisdom, and charity are unmatched!” Birbal’s Subtle ReplyBirbal sent for an empty drum…

A Curious InquiryAkbar asked Birbal, “Can a coin speak?” Birbal answered, “Yes—but only when it leaves your hand.” The Lesson DeliveredHe explained, “When hoarded, it is silent. When given, it…

A Humble RequestOne day, Akbar ordered a new pair of shoes. The cobbler arrived and offered a simple pair, asking a small price. Akbar's GenerosityThe king paid him handsomely. The…

An Eavesdropper’s ClaimA servant came to the king and claimed, “The wall of the garden spoke to me!” Akbar raised an eyebrow and turned to Birbal. The Secret UncoveredBirbal brought…

A Greedy PursuitA hunter ran breathless into court, complaining, “I chased a deer and fell into a ditch. Someone must be blamed!” Birbal's Calm WisdomBirbal replied, “Your own greed led…

A Gift from the EastA merchant from a distant land brought a special mirror to the court. “This mirror,” he said, “shows the truth of a person’s heart.” Akbar’s ExperimentAkbar…

An Empty BasketOne day, a villager came to the emperor’s court carrying an empty basket. He claimed, “I’ve brought you the wind from the mountains!” Akbar’s DispleasureThe emperor grew irritated,…

A Growing ProblemA merchant came to court saying, “I allowed my camel to poke his nose into my tent. Now the whole beast sleeps inside and I sleep outside!” Birbal’s…