The Three Questions

One quiet afternoon, Emperor Akbar decided to test Birbal’s wisdom with three challenging questions.

“Tell me, Birbal,” he said, “what is the most important thing in life?”

Birbal paused for a moment, then replied, “The most important thing in life is to live in the present. The past is gone and cannot be changed, the future is uncertain, but the present is where we have the power to act.”

Akbar nodded thoughtfully and then asked, “What is the most important time?”

Birbal answered without hesitation, “The present moment, because it is the only time we truly have control over.”

Finally, Akbar asked, “And who is the most important person?”

Birbal smiled and replied, “The most important person is the one who is with you right now, for only in this moment can you help and care for them.”

Hearing these wise answers, Akbar was deeply impressed. He realized the value of focusing on the present and giving importance to the people around him.

Moral: The present moment is all we truly control; cherish it and honor the people who matter.

Summary: Akbar asked Birbal three profound questions about life, time, and people. Birbal’s answers stressed the importance of living in the present, valuing the current moment, and giving priority to the person beside you. Akbar admired Birbal’s wisdom and embraced the lesson.