Tenali Raman’s Clever Deception Against a Spy

The rivalry between the Vijayanagaram Empire and the Bijapur Kingdom was filled with deception and espionage. The Bijapur Sultan, keen on preventing Krishnadevarayar’s plans to attack, sent another spy disguised as an astrologer. This spy, like his predecessor, quickly gained the king’s trust and became a close confidant. He predicted many things for the king, and his advice was sought on important matters. However, the astrologer came up with a prediction that raised suspicions. He warned the king that he would die if he crossed the Thungabhadra River, a crucial crossing point if the king was to lead his army into Bijapur.

The king, faced with this ominous prediction, found himself in a dilemma. The queens and ministers, upon hearing the astrologer’s advice, urged the king not to proceed with his planned attack on Bijapur. They feared the astrologer’s warning could be true. As the tension grew, the king, uncertain of what to do, turned to his trusted advisor, Tenali Raman.

Raman immediately suspected that the astrologer was not a wise seer, but a spy sent by the Bijapur Sultan to prevent the king from crossing the river. The king asked Raman to prove his suspicions, and Raman agreed, but with one condition: “If I prove that the astrologer is a spy, I should be allowed to carry out the punishment myself.” The king, trusting Raman’s judgment, agreed to the condition.

Raman then called for the astrologer to be brought to the durbar. Once the astrologer arrived, Raman began to question him. “You are a great astrologer,” Raman said, “Tell me, when will you die?”

The astrologer, confident in his own predictions, replied without hesitation, “I will die in 34 years.”

Raman, with a sharp gaze, immediately pointed out the inconsistency. “But you are already 43 years old. That means you will die when you are 77,” Raman said, drawing his sword in one swift motion. He beheaded the astrologer on the spot, proving that his prediction was false and his true motives were exposed.

A thorough search of the astrologer’s body revealed several clues that confirmed his espionage activities for the Bijapur Sultan. The king, relieved and grateful for Raman’s intervention, was able to proceed with his plans. He crossed the Thungabhadra River, led his forces into Bijapur, and emerged victorious in battle.

As always, the king rewarded Raman for his wisdom and bravery. Raman’s cleverness had once again saved the kingdom from a dangerous spy.

Moral:

The truth always finds a way to reveal itself, even when disguised by deceit.