The Coin in the Well

One day, Emperor Akbar expressed his frustration in court. “Why is it,” he asked, “that none of you ever disagree with me? Do you truly believe I’m always right?”

The ministers smiled nervously, unsure how to respond. No one dared challenge the emperor openly.

Birbal, ever wise, decided to teach a lesson without directly confronting them. The next morning, he gathered the court near the palace well. Holding a shiny gold coin, he said, “This is the emperor’s favorite coin — a symbol of his greatness and wisdom.”

Then, with a swift motion, he dropped the coin into the deep, dark well.

The ministers gasped.

“The emperor will be heartbroken,” one said.

“Such a priceless coin!” another cried.

Some even pretended to mourn the loss. But none moved an inch to retrieve it.

Then, to everyone’s surprise, Birbal stepped forward and jumped into the well.

After a few moments, he emerged — wet and muddy — holding not a coin, but a small stone.

Akbar looked puzzled. “Birbal, where is the coin?”

Birbal handed him the stone and replied, “This is not the coin, Your Majesty. It’s just a reminder. While everyone here shed words of sorrow and praise, not one took action. I didn’t recover the coin — but I showed what true loyalty looks like. Empty words do nothing. Only action proves sincerity.”

Akbar smiled, understanding the deeper meaning. “You’ve made your point, Birbal. Flattery fades, but actions remain.”

Moral: Loyalty is not in words, but in the courage to act when it matters.