Emperor Akbar was known to have a great sense of humor. He often asked his courtiers silly unexpected question, seeking musing and entertaining answers.
One day in his court Akbar asked his noblemen, 'Tell me what punishment should be given to a person who pulls my mustache?'
The court turned serious. Everyone appeared thoughtful. Then one of the courtiers rose up and said, 'O great emperor, such an act is unforgivable. If a person dares do such a thing, he should be beheaded right away'.
Soon as he completed, another courtier stood up and said, 'Majesty, he should be flogged for such a daring act'.
Akbar nodded in consent. Yet another courtier stood up and said, 'Such a person should be hanged as an exemplary punishment'.
Akbar then turned to Birbal and asked, 'Birbal tell us what punishment should be given?'
Birbal said, 'O great emperor, for pulling your moustaches the person should be given sweets rather than punishment'.
Akbar and the entire court was startled to hear Birbal's reply. The emperor angrily asked, 'Birbal, do you know what you are saying? Have you gone crazy?'
Birbal replied with a muted smiled, 'My Majesty, I am aware of what I said. I am not crazy'.
Akbar became more angry and asked Birbal the reason for what he said.
Birbal replied politely, 'My Majesty, the only person who can dare pull your moustache could be your grandson. It is an act of innocence and love. How can one punish a child for such act of innocence and love? I am sure if it happens, you will reward your grandson with delicious sweets!'
Akbar laughed out loudly. His heart was captured by Birbal's great sense of humor and rewarded him with his gold ring.
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