A Royal Challenge
Akbar said, “I wear the crown, but what is the true crown of a king?” Birbal brought no object but bowed and said, “The love of your people—that is your real crown.”
The Emperor’s Smile
“Then may I never forget who I serve,” Akbar said with humility.
Birbal’s Final Word
“The best rulers,” he said, “rule hearts, not thrones.”
Lesson to Be Learned
The true glory of life is not in command, but in service. Just as Kṛṣṇa is the King of all, yet the Servant of His devotees, the greatest are those who serve with love and compassion.
