One day, Akbar’s courtiers were discussing the best weapon. All the courtiers named different weapons. But Birbal said, “There is no such weapon. Whatever comes handy at the time of danger is the best weapon.” Akbar did not agree. Next day, when Akbar and Birbal were walking through the city, a mad elephant chased them. Akbar tried to attack it with his sword, but in vain. As they ran for their lives, Birbal saw a puppy playing by the roadside. He picked it up and threw it at the elephant. The puppy clung to the elephant’s trunk. Its claws pierced the elephant and it stopped chasing them. Akbar heaved a sigh of relief. Birbal said, “Your Majesty, the puppy was our best weapon in this situation.” Akbar praised Birbal. He said, “Birbal, you saved my life today and taught me a great lesson about weapons.” Then he gave Birbal a pearl necklace.
The Mad Elephant
