There are many examples of the kindness and generosity of Akbar.
In this context Du Jerik writes—”He used to receive happily the humble gifts of the common folk.”
According to Mansrett—”Anyone who wished to meet the emperor could easily do so.”
It may be pointed out that generosity and the graciousness are two key factors that gain a ruler true popularity and the appreciation of his people. Even in angry mood Akbar wouldn’t deal cruel treatment to any one. He was a kind hearted person and for the mankind he had deep respect and love. He understood the value of life and did not indulge in unnecessary bloodshed. In this respect he had a clear philosophy that one who can not grant life had no right to take any life.
Thirst for knowledge
Although Akbar was not a lettered man yet he had great thirst for knowledge. He kept the company of learned ones and men of knowledge. That gained him so much knowledge through interaction that no one could believe Akbar could not read or write. He knew verses, texts, quotations and sayings.
At one place Du Jerik wrote—”He could not read, and he could not write but he kept himself fully informed of all the developments of his empire.”
His thirst for knowledge on spiritual masters was so great that he had sheltered scholars of various faiths. He would discuss matters of faith with them whenever he found time. He preferred to interact on complex subject. His memory was very sharp. He had a library of the books of his interest that had 24,000 books. If a person borrowed a book from his library and delayed to return it Akbar would get displeased. Once literateur Badayuni got the taste of Akbar’s disapproval who he failed to return a book on the promised date.
For friends
Akbar was very friendly with his close ones. He often behaved frankly with friends without caring for formalities and codes of the court. His frank and informal relationship with Birbal and Abul Fazal was a legend. When Birbal lost his life while battling against an enemy the emperor did not take food for two days. Once again he did not feel like eating for three days when Saleem got Abul Fazal assassinated. When the court poet Faizi fell seriously ill the emperor went to his house to see him.
