The Clever Jester: How Tenali Raman Outwitted the Magician

One day, the court of King Krishnadevaraya was entertained by a magician from North India who performed dazzling tricks. The magician’s final act was an extraordinary feat: separating his head from his body, a performance that left the audience amazed. Proud of his skills, the magician boldly challenged the court.

“Can anyone in Vijayanagaram replicate this magic?” he asked smugly.

The court fell silent; no one dared to step forward. The king, slightly embarrassed by the lack of response from his court, felt dejected. Just then, Tenali Raman rose from his seat, bowing before the king and addressing the audience with a playful smile.

“Respected magician, I challenge you to perform a trick with open eyes, one that I can easily do with my eyes closed,” Raman declared.

The magician, confident in his abilities, accepted the challenge without hesitation. Raman fetched a bag full of chili powder, closed his eyes, and calmly sprinkled it on his face. After a few moments, he wiped off the powder and opened his eyes, perfectly composed.

“Now it’s your turn,” Raman said, handing the magician a fresh bag of chili powder. “Perform the same trick, but with your eyes wide open.”

Realizing the impossibility of the task and the humiliation he was about to face, the magician attempted to flee. The gathered audience burst into laughter at his predicament, ridiculing the once-arrogant performer. Defeated and dejected, the magician ended his show and left the court in disgrace.

The king, thoroughly impressed by Tenali Raman’s wit and ingenuity, appointed him as the official court jester. The people and courtiers congratulated Raman on his cleverness, though some, like the court priest Tathachary, secretly harbored jealousy.

Moral of the Story:

Wisdom and quick thinking can outshine even the most extraordinary skills. Confidence is valuable, but arrogance without preparation leads to downfall.