Maharashtra Board Class 6 English Who’s the Greatest Notes
Q: Who was Emperor Akbar and why is he considered one of the greatest rulers in the world?
A: Emperor Akbar, also known as Akbar the Great, was a ruler who had a vast empire, a strong army, and immense wealth. However, he is also known for being a good human being who cared for his subjects and had great respect for scholars, writers, poets, and artists belonging to different religions. He was a patron of art and culture and had a group of famous scholars and artists, called the ‘nav-ratnas’, in his court.
Q: Who was Birbal and why was he close to Emperor Akbar’s heart?
A: Birbal was one of the ‘nav-ratnas’ or the nine gems in Emperor Akbar’s court. He was known for his wit, intelligence, and problem-solving skills. Many people believe that Birbal was the closest to the Emperor’s heart because he never failed to come up with interesting answers to the Emperor’s questions and problems.
Q: What was the question that Akbar posed to his court in the first story?
A: Akbar asked the court what the punishment should be for someone who pulls his mustache.
Q: What was Birbal’s answer to Akbar’s question in the first story?
A: Birbal suggested that the offender should be given their favorite sweetmeats, as only the Emperor’s own grandson would be so bold as to pull his mustache, and therefore it was not a serious offense.
Q: Why did Akbar laugh when he heard Birbal’s answer in the first story?
A: Akbar laughed because Birbal’s answer was exactly what had happened that morning – Akbar’s grandson had pulled his mustache.
Q: What was the challenge that Akbar gave his courtiers in the second story?
A: Akbar asked the courtiers to tell him at least one thing that he could do but God Almighty could not.
Q: What was Birbal’s answer to Akbar’s challenge in the second story?
A: Birbal suggested that Akbar could banish someone from his kingdom, which was something that God could not do as his kingdom extends everywhere.
Q: How did Akbar respond to Birbal’s answer in the second story?
A: Akbar was pleased with Birbal’s answer as it showed how he had an advantage while also acknowledging the greatness of God. He forgave the courtiers for their inability to answer the challenge.
