Raman Excels

Renowned scholars from across the country once gathered at King Krishnadevaraya’s court for a grand debate. The topic of discussion was “illusion.”

A learned scholar from the north stood up and declared confidently, “Everything we see in this world is merely an illusion. Happiness and sorrow are not real—they exist only in our thoughts. It is our mind that makes us feel joy or sadness.”

Everyone in the royal court applauded his profound words. “What a philosopher!” they exclaimed in admiration. Even the king was impressed, though he wished to hear a counterargument.

For a while, no one came forward to challenge the scholar’s claim—until Tenali Raman rose from the audience. With his trademark wit, Raman said, “Respected scholar, you say happiness and sorrow are mere thoughts. Very well! It is now noon. Let our noble king serve us a delicious meal. We will all eat, but you should not eat—just think that you are eating. Let us see if this thought alone satisfies your hunger!”

The entire court burst into laughter. The scholar was speechless, unable to answer Raman’s clever logic.

The king was delighted by Raman’s sharp intellect. He praised him before all and rewarded him with gold coins and fine gifts.

Moral: True wisdom lies in understanding reality, not just words. Thought alone cannot replace real experience.