Birbal The Wise

The wit and wisdom of Birbal had endeared him not only to Akbar, but also to a vast majority of the subjects of the Mughal Empire. He had the rare distinction of achieving immense popularity during his lifetime, next only to that of Akbar. He was a good administrator, a good soldier and perhaps what pleased Akbar the most - a good jester. His phenomenal success made many courtiers jealous and, if popular accounts are to be believed, they were forever plotting against him.
Akbar had found in Birbal, a true friend and sympathiser. Of the handful of followers of the Din-e-Elahi, the new faith preached by Akbar, there was only one Hindu - Birbal.