Tenali Raman’s Clever Solution to a Ghostly Dilemma

During Krishnadevarayar’s reign in Vijayanagaram, the construction of a bridge over the Thungabhadra River faced an eerie setback. Before the bridge could be completed, it was repeatedly washed away. Superstitions ran wild among the people. A rumor spread that an angry ghost was preventing the construction and that the only way to appease it was through a human sacrifice.

A cruel monk supported this grim solution, asserting that only a human life could ensure the bridge’s stability. The king, deeply troubled, was unwilling to condone the sacrifice of innocent lives. Seeking guidance, he turned to Tenali Raman.

Raman, ever the problem solver, offered a plan that was both practical and ethical. “Your Majesty,” he said, “the bridge is essential for the nation’s progress, and the superstition must be addressed to pacify the people. Let us use criminals sentenced to death for these sacrifices. Instead of executing them elsewhere, let their penalties serve a purpose by conducting them at the construction sites. This way, the ghost’s supposed demands will be met, and no innocent lives will be lost.”

The king, impressed by Raman’s clever compromise, immediately ordered the new practice to be implemented. The construction resumed, and with public belief in the ghost appeased, the bridge was successfully completed.

Krishnadevarayar, relieved and grateful, rewarded Raman with 1,000 gold coins, once again acknowledging the wisdom of his trusted court jester.

Moral of the Story:
Wisdom lies in addressing superstitions and fears with solutions that are just and rational, ensuring the greater good without compromising on ethics.