A Royal Debate
Akbar asked, “What is sweeter—sugar or praise?” The courtiers offered different views, but Birbal was silent.
Birbal’s Gentle Reply
He finally said, “Praise is sweeter, but only when spoken from the heart and heard with humility. Otherwise, even sugar turns bitter.”
Akbar’s Appreciation
“Then too much praise,” Akbar said, “may spoil the taste of truth.” Birbal smiled.
Lesson to Be Learned
True praise uplifts, not flatters. Just as a devotee glorifies the Lord with sincerity, we must also learn to offer and receive words that come from devotion, not ego.
