The 5 Best Short Moral Stories of Akbar and Birbal in English — timeless tales of wit, wisdom, honesty, and gratitude that inspire readers of all ages.
Moral Stories of Akbar and Birbal in English
The tales of Emperor Akbar and his intelligent minister Birbal have entertained audiences for centuries. Their banter, kindness, and lessons imparted wisdom that readers of all ages cherish. From our vantage point, these stories still resonate on the same level – conveying ideas about honesty, humility, appreciation, and resilience in a world that moves at breakneck speed.
Here you will find 5 of the Best Short Moral Stories of Akbar and Birbal in English, each completely original, artfully retold, and supplemented with life-affirming wisdom that resonates today. Each story concludes with a simple lesson, a deep truth of living conveyed in just a few words.
Moral Stories of Akbar and Birbal in English – The Candle in the Storm
Once upon a time, one dark night, Akbar and Birbal were walking through the gardens of the palace, when a strong wind began to blow the trees in the garden.
Immediately, the torches went out in the wind. Birbal asked a young soldier to light a small candle and hold it high. The wind was blowing very hard, but the candle flame remained steady.
Akbar asked Birbal, “Why does the flame of the small candle not go out in so much wind?” Birbal replied, echoing Akbar, “Because it does not fight the wind, it only burns from within.”
The moral of the story is, the most powerful light does not fight the storm – it only burns.
Moral Stories of Akbar and Birbal in English – The Two Mirrors
One day, Akbar tricked Birbal into giving him two mirrors: one with jewels on it and one that was plain. Birbal asked Akbar which mirror he liked best. Birbal picked the plain mirror without thinking. “Why?”
Akbar asked. What do you like about this mirror? Birbal gave a smile to Akbar and said, “A fancy mirror calls attention to its frame while a plain mirror invites you to look at yourself.”
Akbar paused a moment because he was surprised by what Birbal said. He naturally began to think of how often people looked for beauty outside, but the truth happens to be on the inside.
The moral of the story is, Beauty may decorate the outside while truth reveals the inside.
Moral Stories of Akbar and Birbal in English – The Garden of Choices
Akbar guided Birbal through a large garden filled with beautiful flowers and winding paths. He asked Birbal to pick a path, and Akbar selected the most crowded path where a lot of people were moving.
Birbal then selected the narrow and small path, the quiet and unused path, the pathway in the back of the garden. As they walked along, Akbar was distracted, along with saucy courtiers and tricksters trying to get him engaged with chatting him up and offering temptations.
Eventually, Birbal’s path led easily to a calm and peaceful bench seating next to a pond with the clear water a short distance away.
Akbar finished by saying, “I don’t understand why you chose the quiet way.” Birbal responded, “Because many calls appeal to the masses, but usually the right call, calls in quiet.”
The moral of the story is, the best call is not always loud, but usually quiet is heard in silence.
Moral Stories of Akbar and Birbal in English – The Broken Lute
At a function at the palace, a lovely lute fell to the floor, and a string snapped. The players were disheartened and attempted to temper the broken string.
Birbal swiftly retrieved the lute, touched it, and said: “The snapped string does not detract from the music—but adds a different overtone.” He returned the melody and played a simple phrase that brought everyone to tears.
Akbar questioned him, “Is this still the same music?” And Birbal responded, “It may be different—but it is honest and refreshing.”
The point of the story is that a challenge can only change the melody, but cannot take over the entire song.
Moral Stories of Akbar and Birbal in English – The Empty Cup
In the context of a court discussion, Akbar handed Birbal tea and continued to pour despite the cup being full. Birbal watched as the tea spilled and said, “Majesty, the cup is full—but a mind that thinks it knows everything, is worse than that.”
Akbar listened as he asked Birbal, “So what should a wise one do?” Birbal answered, “Empty the cup and let the tea–along with the new thinking–come in.”
Moral: A mind with no room for new thought is like a full cup—with no purpose spilling over.
Moral Stories of Akbar and Birbal in English – Conclusion
The tales of Akbar and Birbal, “Moral Stories of Akbar and Birbal in English,” may be set in an ancient court, but their morals, wisdom, and life lessons are still relevant today.
Whether it’s an encouragement to live life with honesty, a reminder to be thankful, or an inspiration to meet life with joy and brightness when it seems dismal, the wisdom of Akbar and Birbal is perennial.
These traditional moral stories illustrate that intelligence, when applied with kindness and good nature, can rise above all obstacles — and that those with true intelligence will always be of a kind heart.
If you liked “Moral Stories of Akbar and Birbal in English” the stories, then share them with family, friends, and young readers — every generation deserves some of Birbal’s genius and Akbar’s open mind
Moral Stories of Akbar and Birbal in English – FAQ
Q. What is the nature of the Akbar and Birbal stories?
A. The Akbar and Birbal stories are known for their wit, moral lessons, and resourceful solutions. Each story beautifully demonstrates the tension in genuine stories between wisdom, humor, and humanity.
Q. Are Akbar and Birbal’s stories based on real life or are they fictional?
A. While based on real historical figures, many of the Akbar-Birbal stories are folk tales that have been told orally or in written form through generations, combining truths and characters to teach us life lessons.
Q. After the Akbar and Birbal stories present a moral, what moral does it convey?
A. The moral lessons the Akbar and Birbal stories convey value honesty, gratitude, fairness, humility, and intelligence. They also remind readers that true wisdom is always accompanied by kindness and respect.
Q. Can you share whether these stories would be appropriate for children?
A. Yes! Akbar and Birbal stories are perfect for children. They are short stories, engaging, and impart easy, appropriate morals. The stories are often lessons on good character and discernment.
Q. What is the most well-known Akbar and Birbal story?
A. One of the most beloved stories is Birbal’s Khichdi, in which Birbal spirits Emperor Akbar the lesson of patience and fairness, which is universal and suitable at any time, which we still enjoy today.