With an Eye on Peace

The Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Avanti had just passed away, leaving the king in search of a suitable replacement to fill the vacant position. The king’s elderly advisors selected three candidates for consideration: Ram Sarma, Haridas, and Raj Verma.

The king first summoned Ram Sarma to his private chamber and presented a troubling scenario. “Our neighbors, King Virsen and King Shaktisen, are enemies. Both have sent emissaries, seeking our friendship. If I accept one proposal, the other will be offended. What should I do?”

Ram Sarma replied confidently, “My lord, King Virsen is the more powerful of the two. It would be wise to ally with him. Having a weak ally like Shaktisen is of no use.”

Next, the king called in Haridas and posed the same question. Haridas responded thoughtfully, “My lord, while Virsen is indeed powerful, he is also proud and cannot be trusted. I believe it is better to befriend Shaktisen. His weakness would make him value your cooperation far more than the proud Virsen.”

Finally, the king summoned Raj Verma and repeated the question to him. Raj Verma provided a different perspective. “My lord, forming a friendship with either king will inevitably entangle us in their disputes. If war breaks out, we would be forced to choose sides, which would be detrimental to our kingdom. I humbly suggest we respond to both kings, welcoming their friendship, but only if they agree to reconcile with each other first. We could even offer to mediate between them. This way, we promote peace in the entire region.”

Impressed by Raj Verma’s approach, the king appointed him as the new Prime Minister, recognizing his vision for peace in the kingdom.