The Clever Deaf Man

Whenever anyone went to the Zamindar of Sirohi in search of a job, he would insist that they answer his questions correctly before being engaged for work. One day, Sahadev approached him for a job. Unbeknownst to the Zamindar, Sahadev was deaf.

The Zamindar tested him, asking, “What can be earned again even if you were to lose it once?” Sahadev had a quick answer, “Money.” The Zamindar then asked, “What is it that you can’t retrieve if you were to lose it once?” Sahadev replied, “Day and night.” Finally, the Zamindar inquired, “How long will one remain obliged to someone who has helped him?” “As long as one is alive,” answered Sahadev.

Impressed by Sahadev’s answers, the Zamindar decided to employ him. However, the very next day, he realized that the man was deaf! Curious, he called Sahadev and asked, “How did you manage to answer all my questions so correctly?”

Sahadev smiled and responded, “No doubt I heard all your questions properly. You asked me, ‘What do you want?’ and I replied, ‘Money.’ Then you asked me, ‘When will you work?’ and I said, ‘Day and night.’ Your next question was, ‘How long will you work for me?’ And I said, ‘Till I’m alive.’”

The Zamindar couldn’t help but curse himself for his mistake. “You’re truly remarkable! Don’t tell me you interpreted my questions like that!” he exclaimed, though a smile played on his lips as he admired Sahadev’s cleverness.