Birbal’s Clever Punishment for Akbar’s Beard

One day, Emperor Akbar entered the court with a thoughtful expression and posed an unusual question to his ministers:
“Honorable ministers, tell me, what punishment should I give to someone who dares to pull my beard?”

The question left everyone in the court bewildered. Who would even think of pulling the emperor’s beard? The ministers started whispering among themselves, trying to decide on the appropriate punishment for such an audacious act.

One minister stood up and said, “Your Majesty, the offender’s hands should be cut off for such disrespect.”
Another suggested, “He deserves the death penalty for this act.”
Yet another added, “The culprit should be locked in a dungeon filled with rats for the rest of his life.”

As the suggestions became increasingly creative and severe, Akbar enjoyed their responses, smiling all the while. Finally, he turned to Birbal and said,
“And you, Birbal, what punishment do you think is fitting for such an offense?”

Birbal stood up, bowed respectfully, and replied, “Your Majesty, the offender should be showered with kisses, hugged tightly, and given a plate full of sweets as a reward.”

The entire court was stunned. One minister exclaimed, “Sweets for someone who pulls the emperor’s beard?!” Akbar, intrigued, asked Birbal, “Do you truly believe this is an appropriate punishment?”

Birbal smiled and replied, “Your Majesty, who else but your beloved grandson would dare to pull your beard?”

Birbal was right. That very morning, while Akbar was playing with his grandson, the mischievous boy had playfully pulled his beard. Akbar had taken it as a moment of joy but decided to test his ministers with this clever question.

Pleased with Birbal’s wit and insight, Akbar rewarded him with a bag of gold coins, once again reaffirming that Birbal’s wisdom was unparalleled in the court.

Moral of the Story:
The right perspective can turn even a seemingly grave offense into an act of affection, and true wisdom lies in understanding the context of every action.