The Candle and the Sun

One evening in the royal court, Akbar and his ministers were enjoying the calm of twilight when a conversation turned toward greatness and pride. To stir their thoughts, Birbal told them a short parable.

“There once was a proud little candle,” Birbal began, “burning brightly in a dark room. Surrounded by shadows, it stood tall and boasted, ‘See how the night trembles before me! Even the darkness bows to my flame!’”

The courtiers smiled at the image.

Birbal continued, “Just then, the first light of dawn appeared. The candle’s flame flickered. And as the sun slowly rose, its light overwhelmed the room. The candle, once proud, now looked dim and was soon snuffed out by a gentle breeze.”

He then turned to Akbar and said, “Your Majesty, I share this story to remind us all: the candle’s light was real, but brief. Its pride came not from greatness, but from being the only light in the dark. But when true brilliance rises like the sun it needs no words.”

Akbar nodded thoughtfully. “Pride may burn for a moment, but truth shines forever.”

Moral: Temporary glory fades only truth endures like the rising sun.