The Fatal Curiosity
Kusigarh was a prosperous city, and the king was like a father to his subjects. All was well until a bandit named Gajsingh threatened the city’s peace. Clever and merciless in his operations, Gajsingh outsmarted the king at every turn.
The Growing Menace
As days passed, Gajsingh became a greater menace. Many merchants who traveled to Kusigarh from distant kingdoms were waylaid by him. As a result, other merchants grew afraid of visiting the city, causing trade within the kingdom to suffer.
A Minister’s Return
The minister was away on a diplomatic mission. Upon his return, he found the king deep in thought and quickly learned about Gajsingh’s rampage.
“Don’t worry, my lord. I can capture the bandit within two or three days,” he assured the king confidently.
The Capture
On the third day, the minister presented a strong and stout youth in the court and stated, “Here is the notorious bandit, my lord. He had the audacity to enter my house last night, and I succeeded in catching him.”
“What is your name?” asked the king. “Gajsingh,” replied the youth defiantly, despite looking fearful.
The Trial
After the youth was sent to prison, the court was packed the next day. The prisoner confessed to his crimes.
“What should be the fitting punishment for this fellow?” the king asked his courtiers.
“Behead him!” “Hang him!” the courtiers suggested.
A Different Proposal
One of the ministers, however, interjected, “My lord, it is true that Gajsingh has done us great harm, but how do we gain by killing him? I propose we spare him on the condition that he leaves our kingdom and continues his nefarious activities in the territory of our neighboring enemy.”
The king appreciated the proposal. “Very well, Gajsingh, go to the enemy territory and harass the king of that land to the best of your ability,” he decreed.
A Twist in the Tale
The royal guards escorted the bandit to the frontier, which was marked by a jungle and a meadow—a No Man’s Land between the two kingdoms. The bandit walked alone, but suddenly, a young man sprang out before him.
“Look here, friend. I am genuinely intrigued by your conduct. I am the real Gajsingh. Who are you? Why did you assume my name and endure the punishment? I have followed you with great curiosity,” he said.
The Real Gajsingh Captured
At that moment, the king’s soldiers, who had been hiding, rushed in and captured the real Gajsingh. The imposter, who was actually a nephew of the minister, smiled and said, “We expected you. Now you understand why I assumed your name! It was merely to stir your fascination!”
