Akbar Birbal Stories are popular stories among children and are full of wit, humor, and intelligence. They also convey moral values and virtues. Akbar Birbal stories are supposedly true and are fun to read and bring a smile to our faces.
“You shall not take a bribe, for a bribe blinds the clear-sighted and subverts the cause of the just.” Exodus 23:8
Akbar Birbal Stories – Half the Reward
One day, while hunting in the jungle the Great Mughal Emperor, Akbar lost his way. Thirsty, hungry, and worn out, Akbar and his courtiers did not know where to go. Finally, they came to a junction of three roads. It perplexed them which road would lead them to the capital city Agra.
They saw a young boy coming toward them. The emperor summoned the boy and asked him, “Do you know which one of these roads leads to Agra.” The boy replied, “Sir, roads do not move; only people travel, roads don’t, do they?” The emperor impressed with the boy’s reply asked his name and gave him his signatory ring saying, “You are speaking to the King of Hindustan (India), visit my court and bring this ring so I can recognize you.” The young boy then pointed toward the road going to the capital city.
The young boy, Mahesh Das, grew up as a fine young man and went to visit the new capital of the kingdom, Fatehpur Sikri. He reached the capital and tried to enter the palace. However, he was stopped by one guard at the gates. Mahesh Das showed the guard the ring the emperor had given him. Sensing that this youngster will get many more rewards, the guard told him he will allow him inside the palace only if he promises to give half the reward he would receive from the emperor.
Mahesh Das agreed to this and was let inside the palace. He saw the emperor sitting majestically in his throne inside the court. He approached the emperor and showed him the ring he had given him. Akbar immediately recognized him and welcomed him to the court.
The emperor asked Mahesh Das, “What is your desire? I will try to fulfill it.” To the astonishment of the emperor, Mahesh Das requested to be whipped with 50 lashes.
The emperor with great reluctance agreed to the young man’s wishes. Mahesh Das endured the punishment with great composure. His silence shocked the courtiers.
When the whip cracked for the 25th time, Mahesh Das suddenly shouted, “Stop now.” He asked for the guard at the gate to be brought to the court, as he had promised to give him half of whatever he received from the emperor. Everyone marveled at the intelligence of this young man and laughed their hearts out. The greedy guard got punished for his deed as the emperor ordered that they may give him the remaining 25 lashes besides 5 years of imprisonment. The emperor bestowed upon Mahesh Das the name “Birbal” with the title “Raja” and made him his trusted advisor and confidante.
Akbar Birbal stories reflect the close bond and beautiful relationship shared between Emperor Akbar and his minister Raja Birbal. Many Akbar Birbal stories are an integral part of many people’s lives. Birbal is the main character of the Akbar Birbal stories since he calms the ire of the emperor many times through his brilliance and friendly banter.
Check our wide collection of Moral Stories that will inspire you and your children to do great things for the good of others. These stories for kids are motivating stories that will teach valuable lessons.
Terrific article