The Famous and Inspiring Story of Akbar and His Parrot
Long ago, Emperor Akbar was visiting the marketplace. He saw a beautiful parrot, and its owner had taught it many impressive phrases. Akbar was delighted and decided to buy the parrot. He paid a fair price, and brought the bird back to the royal palace. He ordered that the parrot be treated with the utmost care.
Whenever Akbar spoke to the parrot, it would immediately respond. The parrot quickly became a beloved companion. Akbar ordered that the parrot be given the best royal accommodations in the palace. He instructed his servants, "Care for this parrot meticulously. It should not experience any distress." He continued, "Under no circumstances should this parrot die. If anyone brings news of its death, they will be executed." The parrot was treated with great care in the palace. Then, one day, Akbar's beloved parrot unexpectedly passed away.
A great panic ensued amongst the palace servants. Who would dare inform Akbar of this? He had decreed that anyone who brought such news would face the death penalty. The servants were distraught. After much deliberation, they decided to approach Birbal, seeking his wisdom. They explained the situation, that the emperor had threatened execution for anyone who disclosed the parrot's demise. Birbal, upon hearing this, agreed to deliver the news to the emperor.
Birbal approached Akbar and said, "Your Majesty, there is unfortunate news." Akbar inquired, "What has happened?" Birbal replied, "Your Majesty, your beloved parrot is not eating, not drinking, not speaking, not opening its eyes, and not moving at all." Akbar angrily exclaimed, "Why not tell me directly that it is dead?" Birbal responded, "Your Majesty, I have only reported what I have seen. The words 'dead' were your own, therefore, spare my life." Akbar remained speechless. Birbal had cleverly saved himself and his fellow servants through his intelligence.
The lesson from this story is: In difficult times, one should not panic, but should act wisely. By using one's intellect, any problem can be solved.
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