He Who Hated Flattery
“Kumar and Shekhar set forth on their journey, embodying friendship, wisdom, and the cultural richness of their village life as they embrace new beginnings.”
Two young men, Kumar and Shekhar, completed their education in the village. Both decided to proceed to the town to seek jobs. Before leaving, they visited several senior villagers to seek their blessings. Everyone they met offered valuable advice, but when they met a retired officer of the king, he said, “Look here, boys, nothing works like flattery!” He then taught them ten common flattery phrases.
It so happened that Kumar was too poor to hire a carriage to the town or even to share one with Shekhar. On the auspicious day of their departure, he left his house early in the morning, ready to walk the distance. In the village square, he saw Shekhar waiting for a carriage.
“Kumar! How did you like the officer’s advice?” asked Shekhar.
“It may be helpful,” said Kumar. “Though the officer spoke in a lighter vein. I don’t think he meant for us to take it seriously,” Kumar added.
“I did not like it. Flattery? Pooh!” commented Shekhar as his carriage arrived. He stepped inside, and just as the carriage was about to start, Kumar said, “Shekhar! You’re the only person I have known who hates flattery and dismisses it! I am delighted.”
Shekhar smiled, nodded, and said, “By the way, Kumar, why should you walk all the way? Come inside. After all, I am paying for the full carriage!” Kumar took a seat facing Shekhar as the carriage moved on.
“Why are you smiling?” Shekhar asked curiously.
“I think there is truth in what the retired officer said. At least I have proven his point by applying one of the ten stock flatteries he taught us the other day!” Kumar replied.