2153rd BLOG POST
20th Book of 2025
2025
has been a year of nostalgia and revisiting my childhood. I find myself picking
up children’s books and, before gifting them to their future owners, ending up
reading them myself. This time, I read “Birbal & the Cannibals,”
which consists of four tales of Akbar and Birbal, beautifully rewritten and
narrated by Delshad Karanjia. I am truly in awe of both the author and Aleph
Publications for bringing these timeless stories back for the new
generation.
All
four stories in this book primarily highlight Birbal’s intellect and wit in an
optimistic manner, making it an engaging read as one sees how he proves himself
time and again. In one story, Akbar becomes furious after getting injured
during a hunting expedition. However, the very same incident later saves him,
and Birbal’s clever explanation of how these events ultimately helped both of
them makes Akbar bow to him once again in respect.
In
another story, the jealousy of the court members towards Akbar’s favoritism of
Birbal is portrayed well. This leads to a situation where they are challenged
to identify the real mother tongue of a man who can fluently speak multiple
languages. When no one is able to determine his native language, Birbal comes
up with a completely unique method to reveal the truth, once again proving in
front of everyone why he is unmatched.
Similarly,
one of the stories depicts how Birbal breaks a friendship to ensure that both
the parents of the children involved are happy, so that the children can focus
on their careers. This episode clearly reflects his sharp-mindedness and
practical wisdom. The final story revolves around a painting competition
between Birbal and Akbar’s brother-in-law, based on the theme of peace.
Birbal’s artwork appears to be completely opposite to the theme at first
glance, but the way he explains his perspective highlights the philosophical
depth of his thinking. This story also helps children understand the deeper
meaning behind art and creativity.
Overall,
this book stands out as one of the best children’s books published by Aleph in
recent times. I give it 4.5 stars out of 5.
Thanks!
WRITING BUDDHA
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