Tenali Rama's Answer

For his entertainment, the emperor often asked strange questions to his ministers and courtiers. One day, he arrived at court a little late and asked, "Someone yanked my beard this morning. How should he be punished?"

Everyone was shocked; they couldn't even imagine someone having the guts to do this. They made various suggestions. One courtier said that the culprit should be flogged; another said that he should be sentenced to death. Only Tenali Rama was quiet.

The emperor asked Tenali for his opinion. Tenali bowed to him and said, "In my opinion, the offender should be given sweets."

All the courtiers were stunned. The emperor asked Tenali Rama why he thought this punishment was appropriate. Tenali said, "Emperor, only your grandson would have dared to do such a thing."

The emperor couldn't contain his laughter. Tenali was right; the one who yanked his beard was none other than his grandson. He rewarded Tenali for his sharpness.