Panch Parmeshwar

Jumman Sheikh and Algu Chaudhary were well known in the village for their deep friendship. They trusted each other completely. Whether it was farming, money matters, or family responsibilities, both relied on one another without hesitation. When Jumman went on a pilgrimage, he left his house in Algu’s care, and Algu did the same when he traveled. They did not meet every day or eat together, but their thinking was alike—and that was the true foundation of their friendship.

Their bond had begun in childhood when both studied under Jumman’s father, Sheikh Jumerati. Algu served his teacher with great dedication, believing that a teacher’s blessings were more valuable than book knowledge. Jumman’s father was strict and believed more in discipline than affection, which helped shape Jumman into a respected and influential man in the village.

Jumman had an old widowed aunt who owned a small piece of land. Having no children, she trusted Jumman and transferred the land to him after he promised to take care of her for life. Until the legal papers were completed, she was treated kindly. But once the land became Jumman’s property, his behavior changed. His wife neglected the old woman, reduced her food, and treated her with disrespect.

Unable to bear the humiliation, the aunt demanded a separate allowance. Jumman refused and insulted her instead. Left with no option, she decided to seek justice through a village council (panchayat). Jumman was confident that the decision would favor him because of his influence.

The old woman went from door to door seeking support, but most villagers avoided her. Finally, she approached Algu Chaudhary and requested him to be a judge in the panchayat. Algu was hesitant, torn between friendship and duty, but his conscience did not allow him to refuse.

The panchayat was held under a tree, and Algu was chosen as the head judge. Algu made it clear that friendship would not influence his judgment. After carefully listening to both sides, he announced that Jumman must either provide a proper monthly allowance to his aunt or return her land.

Jumman was deeply hurt by this decision and broke all ties with Algu. He waited for a chance to take revenge.

Some time later, Algu sold his bullocks to Samjhu Sah, who worked them excessively until one died. When Algu demanded payment, Samjhu refused. The matter again reached the panchayat. This time, Jumman Sheikh was chosen as the head judge.

Sitting on the judge’s seat, Jumman reflected deeply. He realized that a judge must rise above personal feelings. Delivering a fair verdict, he ordered Samjhu Sah to pay the full price of the bullocks to Algu.

Algu was overwhelmed with gratitude. After the decision, Jumman embraced Algu and admitted that the judge’s seat had taught him the true meaning of justice.

Their friendship was restored—this time based not on personal interest, but on truth, fairness, and justice.

Moral of the Story

Justice must be above friendship and enmity.
When a person sits in a position of responsibility, they must speak the truth without fear or favor—because true justice is divine.