The Wet Umbrella

One morning in court, a proud minister stood up and began boasting about his influence.

“Your Majesty,” he said confidently, “There is nothing beyond my control. In the city, my word is law. Even the winds and crowds obey my presence.”

The courtiers murmured in amusement, but Emperor Akbar simply raised an eyebrow and glanced at Birbal.

Later that day, Birbal invited the minister for a walk in the palace gardens. As the skies darkened and clouds gathered overhead, Birbal handed the minister an umbrella.

“Since you control everything,” Birbal said politely, “surely you can keep yourself dry.”

Moments later, as expected, rain began to fall. But unknown to the minister, Birbal had gently poured a jug of water onto the inside of his umbrella beforehand. As the minister opened it, water soaked him almost instantly.

Shocked and drenched, the minister turned to Birbal.

Birbal chuckled and said, “You forgot one thing, my friend nature never answers to pride. We can prepare, but we can never control everything.”

When the story reached Akbar, he laughed heartily and said, “Well done, Birbal. Even the wisest must remember that true power lies in humility, not in claiming control.”

Moral: The illusion of control fades when nature reminds us who truly rules.