Birbal’s Khichdi: A Lesson in Fairness

In Emperor Akbar’s city of Fatehpur Sikri, winters were harsh, and the cold could be unbearable. One day, Akbar announced a challenge: “A reward of 1,000 gold coins will be given to anyone who can stand in the freezing royal lake for an entire night.”

Days passed, but no one came forward to accept the challenge. Finally, a frail, poor Brahmin appeared before the emperor. Surprised by the man’s condition, Akbar asked, “You look weak and ill. Are you sure you want to attempt this difficult task?”

The Brahmin replied, “Your Majesty, I am a poor man with hungry children at home. I need the money.”

Moved by his determination, Akbar agreed. Two guards escorted the Brahmin to the freezing lake, where he removed his clothes and entered the icy water. The guards watched him carefully as he stood shivering through the night.

The Test of Endurance

The next morning, the Brahmin was brought before Akbar, who marveled at his endurance. “How did you manage to stand in the freezing water all night? Were you not cold?” Akbar asked.

The Brahmin humbly replied, “It was very cold, Your Majesty, but I kept my eyes on the distant lamps glowing atop the palace towers. Their warmth gave me hope and strength.”

Hearing this, Akbar frowned. “The warmth of the lamps kept you going? That means you cheated! You did not complete the challenge honestly. You will not receive any reward.” Akbar ordered the guards to remove the Brahmin from the court.

Birbal’s Plan

The poor Brahmin left heartbroken. When Birbal heard about the incident, he decided to teach Akbar a lesson. The next evening, Birbal invited Akbar and his ministers to a feast at his house. Akbar happily accepted the invitation.

However, when Akbar arrived, he found Birbal sitting in his courtyard with a small fire burning on the ground. A pot of rice dangled far above the fire, hanging from the branch of a tall tree.

Puzzled, Akbar asked, “Birbal, what are you doing?”

Bowing, Birbal replied, “I am cooking khichdi, Your Majesty.”

Akbar burst into laughter. “How can you expect the heat from that tiny fire to reach the pot so high up? That is impossible!”

Birbal smiled and said, “Your Majesty, if the warmth of distant lamps could keep the Brahmin warm all night, surely this fire can cook my khichdi.”

The Lesson

Akbar stopped laughing and realized Birbal’s point. He admitted his mistake and called the Brahmin back to the court the next day. Akbar apologized and gave him the promised reward of 1,000 gold coins.

The Brahmin expressed his gratitude and blessed the emperor, while Birbal stood by, smiling.

Moral of the Story:

Fairness and justice should never be clouded by assumptions. True leadership lies in acknowledging mistakes and rectifying them.

This tale demonstrates Birbal’s brilliance in teaching lessons through clever and thought-provoking actions, ensuring fairness and wisdom prevailed in Akbar’s court.