One day, a jealous courtier tried to plot against Birbal. Before Birbal entered the royal court, the courtier had whispered in Akbar’s ear, “Your Majesty, Birbal is neglecting his duty and indulging in useless pursuits. I’ve heard that he is learning magic.” When Birbal came to the court, Akbar asked, “Birbal, I heard you know magic. I have lost my ring. Can you find it?” Birbal understood that this was the work of a jealous courtier. He said, “Yes, Your Majesty! I will chant a spell, and the ring will be on your finger.” Saying this, Birbal began to chant some mysterious words. Akbar had actually given his ring to the jealous courtier and asked him to hide it in his pocket. The courtier was scared that the ring would fly away, so he held it tight. Birbal noticed this and said, “The ring is with him!” Akbar smiled.
Birbal, the Magician
