The Donkey and the Gold

One day, Emperor Akbar asked Birbal, "Which is more valuable, a donkey or a pot of gold?" Birbal thought for a moment and replied, "A donkey is more valuable, Your Majesty." Akbar was surprised and asked, "Why?" Birbal smiled and said, "A donkey can carry gold, but gold can’t carry a donkey!" Akbar was amazed and then laughed, realizing how clever Birbal was. Birbal had shown that sometimes value comes from what something can do, not just how it looks.

Moral : Value is often about what something can do, not just what it seems.

Summary : Emperor Akbar asked Birbal whether a donkey or a pot of gold is more valuable. Birbal cleverly responded that a donkey is more valuable, as it can carry gold, while gold can't carry a donkey, highlighting practical value over appearance.