Birbal's Journey to Paradise

Once there was a barber in Emperor Akbar’s court who loved mischief and hated Birbal. One evening, while trimming the emperor’s beard, the barber spun a sly story.

“Your Majesty,” he said, “I dreamt of your father last night.”

Akbar leaned forward. “And what did he say?”

“He’s comfortable in Paradise,” the barber replied, “but he complains that everyone there is dull. He asked if you could send someone to keep him amused.”

Akbar’s eyes lit up. He valued Birbal’s quick wit above all others — and, with a heavy but sincere tone, he turned to Birbal when the man arrived. “Birbal,” he said, “do you love me enough to make the greatest of sacrifices? Would you go to Heaven and entertain my father?”

Birbal smiled and bowed. “For you, Sire? Of course. Give me a few days to prepare.”

Akbar was grateful and gave him a week. Back home Birbal dug a deep grave outside his house — but he was no hurried fool. He also carved a hidden tunnel from the grave to a hidden room beneath his floorboards. When the appointed day came, Birbal announced a strange family custom: he must be buried alive, near his home, to ensure a peaceful passage to the afterlife.

The court, especially the barber, rejoiced. Birbal was carefully lowered into the pit and covered. That night, using his tunnel, he slipped through to his secret hiding place and stayed concealed for six months. During that time his hair and beard grew wildly long.

At last Birbal reappeared before Akbar, his beard unkempt and his hair a tangle. The emperor stared. “Birbal! Where have you been?”

“With the one and only — your father,” Birbal answered serenely. “He’s very pleased. In fact, he told me few barbers make it to Paradise. He’s found the place rather short on skilled barbering. So — Your Majesty — he asked if you would send him your barber immediately.”

Akbar’s mouth fell open as everyone in court realized they’d been outwitted. The barber blushed, and Birbal, with a twinkle, took a modest bow. The day’s lesson: sometimes the sharpest wit wins without a sword.