A Royal Decision
Akbar gave a golden chain to one minister and a garland of straw to another. All were confused.
Birbal’s Clarification
He explained, “One earned glory but is proud. The other serves silently, like straw—soft, flexible, and low.”
Akbar’s Correction
He honored the humble minister and said, “Pride weakens gold. Humility strengthens straw.”
Lesson to Be Learned
True greatness lies in being soft like straw—easy to bend, never to break. The gopīs of Vṛndāvana wore no gold, yet their hearts were more precious than heaven. Be simple, be surrendered.
