One day, Akbar asked his courtiers, “Which is the finest season?” One courtier said, “Your Majesty! It’s spring, when flowers are in bloom, and the buzzing of bees and chirping of birds fills the air. “No, winter is the best,” said another courtier, “when people enjoy the warm rays of the sun. Vegetables abound and we can curl up under cosy blankets.” Another courtier said, “Summer is the best, Your Majesty! We can enjoy refreshments and go for long walks on pleasant evenings.” Akbar asked, “What do you think, Birbal?” Birbal said, “The finest season is when a man is well fed, Your Majesty! An empty stomach knows nothing about fine weather. With a hungry stomach, the buzzing of bees in spring will sting the ears; the winter will be long and cold; and the summer sun shall burn the skin.” Akbar was pleased with Birbal’s concern for the common citizen.
The Best Season
