Neither Here Nor There
The courtiers, who were envious of Birbal’s popularity with the emperor. Always thought of some way or the other to get people into trouble. One day, one of Akbar’s ministers spoke to the King.
Ministers: Huzoor, You always give work to Birbal. Give us an opportunity to earn your goodwill.
Akbar: Ok, let me give you some work. I give you three rupees. You go and buy three things of one rupee each. The first thing should be from here, the second thing shall be from there and the third thing should be from neither here, not there.
The minister was shocked. The courtiers looked confused.
Ministers: But It does not make any sense. Yes spending so much time with Birbal as he does, even the Emperor seems to have lost his balance.
Akbar sees the courtiers discussing among themselves.
Akbar: Any problem?
Ministers: No my Lord, He will get you the things.
The minister immediately went to the market and asked for the specified things from the market. But he came back empty handed.
Ministers: My lord, these things cannot be got anywhere at any price. So if birbal can break them then we will accept that he is really great.
Akbar called Birbal and asked him to bring the same things.
Akbar: Your majesty, they will be here tomorrow.
The next day, birbal came to the court as usual.
Akbar: Birbal, what happened?
Birbal: Yes my lord, the first rupee I gave to one beggar. That reached god who is there. The second rupee I spent to buy some sweets that was used here. And the third rupee I spent in playing dice, this rupee is neither used here nor there.
Akbar: Excellent, Brilliant answer.
Birbal: Thank you, My lord.
All the courtiers were very much surprised to hear birbal’s logic. Akbar smiled to himself.
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