It was the birthday of the emperor himself. The whole kingdom was bubbling with joy. Kings from faraway lands, ministers and courtiers filled the palace with the finest of gifts. But Akbar’s mind was elsewhere. His eyes were searching for his most precious gem — Birbal. One courtier told Akbar, “Your Majesty, everyone has arrived, except Birbal.” After a few hours, when the crowd had started thinning, Birbal arrived with a box. He said, “Your Majesty, may God bless you! Here are my best wishes!” Akbar asked, “What took you so long?” “I was choosing your gift,” he said, and he handed over the box. Akbar immediately unwrapped and opened the box. It was a flowering plant.” Akbar said, “What pretty flowers! How do you know I like these?” Birbal smiled and said, “We had gone for a walk one evening when you praised these flowers.” “How thoughtful! This is the best gift I’ve received!” said Akbar.
The Birthday Gift
