THE TIGER KING-______________By Kalki


THE TIGER KING


Introduction____

The Tiger King is a humourous story by Kalki. It discusses about an imaginary king of Pratibandhpuram. Tiger, in almost every country of the world, is a precious animal today. But during the ancient times killing tiger was a hobbey for kings. So far as the Tiger King is concerned, killing tiger was just a self defence for him. Overall this is a satirical short story.


About the author:::

Ramaswami Krishnamurthy (9 sept,1899--5 Dec..1954) was an Indian writer, journalist, poet and critic. His pen name was Kalki. He basically wrote in Tamil language. In this short story he deals with the theme of arrogance of a king. He satirises how a king kills tiger mercilessly in the name of self defence.The king is obsessed with power which leads to his ultimate defeat and death.



Textual Question Answer--

1. Who is the Tiger King? Why does he get that name ?

Answer--

 The tiger king Sir Jilani Jung Jung Bahadur was the Maharaja of Prtibandhapuram.

 The king got this name because he was born on an astrological foretold. He came to this earth in the hour of bull. In fact, the bull and the tiger are enemy.It was also foretold that the king would be the hero of the heroes. He would haunt ninety nine tigers but the hundredth tiger would be dangerous for hm. This is how Sir Jilani Jung Jung Bahadur got the name 'The Tiger King.'


2. What did the royal infant grow up to be ?

 Answer-

The royal infant (i,e- Sir Jillani Jung Jung Bahadur) grow up to be stronger. He was brought up under the influence of western culture. He was brought up by an english nanny, tutored in english by an englishman. He watched nothing but english films. Later on, he took control of the kingdon at the age of 20 years. Very soon he started hunting tiger in the forest of the area. He argued that he killed tiger just for self defence.


3. What will the Maharaja do to find the required number of tiger to kill ?

Answer:

The Maharaja, to find the required number of tiger to kill, banned tiger hunting in his state Pratibandhapuram.But strangely enough this rule was not valid for him; since he was the king. Then within ten years he killed about seventy tigers.

However, when he couldnot fulfill his goal of killing upto the hundredth tiger, he was in need of a new forest with a huge tiger population. Then he married a royal family princess with a forest in dowrey wherein a huge tiger population was there.
 
4. How will the maharaja prepare himself for the hundredth tiger which was supposed to decide his fate ?

Answer--

After the Maharaja was able to kill the ninety nine tiger, he needed one more. Even in his father-in-law's kingdom the number of tiger extinct. He wanted to get over his fear (of the astrologer's prediction) by killing the last one.

One day his hopes began to rise as he heard that the sheeps of a nearby hillside village began to disappear. The king was ovwewhealmed at the news. Being in a happy mood he announced a three year exemption of all texes for the village where there was possibility of tiger.

But it was unfortunate that no tiger was found by the officials. As a result, they had to lose their job. The angry Maharaja even ordered the Dewan to double the land tax.

At last to satisfy the angry king, an old tiger was brought from the people's park in Madras. The crazy king shot at it and assumed that the tiger was dead. Thus he got over his fear of death.

5. What will now happen to the astrologer? Do you think the prophecy was indisputably disproved ?

Answer--

The chief state astrologer's prediction on the king's death was almost expired. So nothing can happen to him now. The Maharaja just remember the prophecy of the astrologer.

Not at all. The prophesy was not indisputably disproved.Because the old hundredth number of tiger was not practically killed by the king.His shot missed the tiger. In fact, the tiger fainted due to the loud sound of the bullet  wizzing past. Later on, the king faces a tragic death due to infection caused by silver at his right hand on the occasion of his son's birthday.


6.How did the tiger king celebrate his victory over killing the hundredth tiger?


Answer-- 
The Maharaja thought that he had killed the hundredth tiger. He was overcome with elation. He ordered to bring the dead tiger to the capital in grand procession. Accordingly, the tiger was taken in procession through the town and burried. A tomb was erected over  it also.


7. What did the royal infant utter in the little squeaky voice ?


Answer-- 
Addressing the astrologer the royal infant uttered clearly that all those who were born  would have to die one day. There is no need of prediction to know it. 

8. What explanation was given by the chief astrologer to the querry of the little tiger king?


Answer--
To the querry of the little tiger king, the chief astrologer explained that the Prince was born in the hour of the bull, and as the bull and the tiger were enemies, therefore his death would come from the tiger.


9.What did the tiger king pronounce when he heard that his death would be caused by a tiger?

Answer---
When the tiger king heard that his death would be be caused by a tiger, he did not shudder with fear. Instead, he gave  a deep growl terrifying words came out from his lips -"Let tigers beware."


10. Who were Khader Mian Saheb and Naiker?

Answer-- 
They both were famous for their ability to swallow sheeps whole.When sheeps began to disappear frequently from a hill side village they were suspected to have eaten the sheeps. But, later on, it was ascertain that it was not the work of any one of them.


11. What was the happy news for the tiger kng after a long time ?

Answer--
The happy news for the tiger king was that sheeps began to disappear very often from the nearby hillside village. It was thought that the tiger was at work. The villagers came to the tiger king to inform it. This was the happy news for the Maharaja after a long time.


12.Why did the Dewan decide to give up his own tiger to be killed by the Maharaja?

Answer--
After killing ninety-nine tigers, the Maharaja's anxiety reached a fever pitch. The hundredth tiger was yet to be killed and the Dewan believed that if the Maharaja did not find the tiger soon, the result would be catastrophic. Even he would have to lose his job. So, the Dewan decided to bring the old and ailing tiger from the People's Park, Madras and to be killed by the Maharaja.



EXTRA/ADDITIONAL QUESTION AND ANSWER::::


1. Who is the author of The Tiger King?

Answer--
Kalki


2.what degree did the Maharaja have?

Answer--
M.AD, A.C.T.C, C.R.CK.


3.What did the 10 day baby Prince say?

Answer--
"O wise prophets!"....


4.What hour was the baby born?

Answer--
The hour of Bull


5.Name the place where the Maharaja rules?

Answer--
 Pratibandhpuram

6.What did the crown prince drink as baby?


Answer--
Milk of an English cow.


7.Who brought up the baby Princes ?

Answer--
English nanny


8.At what age did the Prince take over the charge of the state?

Answer--At 20 


9.What logic the Maharaja have behind his killing of tiger?

Answer--
Self -defence


10.Which tiger should the king be careful of?

Answer--
The hundredth number.


11.What was the vow of the Maharaja?

Answer--
He will deal with other matter after killing the hundredth tiger.


12.Why did Maharaja not allow a British officer to kill tiger?

Answer--
Because killing tiger was only his right and rightful authority.


13.What was the fear of Maharaja after he hurt the British officer?

Answer--
Danger of losing his kingdom


14.What did Maharaja do to satisfy duraisani?

Answer--Send samples of expensive diamond rings of different designs.


15.What samples & from where did Maharaja ask for?

Answer--
Diamond ring samples from British jwellers company of Calcutta.


16.what amount of bill did Maharaja pay to the jwellers?

Answer--
Three lakh rupees.


17.How many tiger did Maharaja kill within ten years?

Answer--
Seventy tigers.


18.Who were Khader Mian and Virasami naicker ?

Answer--
Two famous man of Pratibandhpuram who could eat whole sheep.


19. Name the park where the old hundredth tiger was brought from.

Answer--
People'e park, Madrass.


20.Which birthday of Maharaja's son was to be celebrated?

Answer--
Third birthday.


MEMOIRS OF CHOTA SAHIB


MEMOIRS OF CHOTA SAHIB     By John Rowntree

About the author: 

  John Rowntree (1906-1975) was the last British senior conservator of forest of Assam. Aftera few days of Independence he left India and returned to England. He was a man of smooth observation who narrated his practical experience about both the banks of the river Brahmaputra.

Introduction to the lesson: 

In this lesson the author has given an account of Guwahati and its neighbouring areas on the eve of Independence.Here, Guwahati has been seen through the eyes of a British forest officer.He has mentioned every detail of the North bank and South Bank of the river.Also he narrated about his bunglow at Kulsi & Rajapara as well.He said about diverse animals and birds.

Textual Question Answer

page--90

1. Briefly describe the scene observed by the author from the varanda of his bunglow on the bank of the Brahmaputra.

Answer- The author John Rowntree lived in a bunglow on the bank of the river Brahmaputra. He used to have a splendid view of the beautiful river and its shipping with the Himalaya.
        The author also had the view of a peacock island with the dome of a Hindu temple. It was visible through the trees. The author observed all these from the varanda of his bunglow.

2. What is the belief about the dividing channel between Peacock Island and the mainland of Guwahati that the author mentions.

Answer-    The belief of the author is that if the dividing channel between the peacock island and the main land of Guwahati ever dried up, it would mean the the end of british raj.

3.What does the author say about the importance of Guwahati ? Is the statement true in our time today also?

Answer-   The author says that Guwahati was the part of entry into Assam. Most of the travellers passed through on their way between calcutta and Shillong or to districts further up the valley. 
         
        Yes, the statement is true. At present Guwahati is called the gateway of Assam and North-East India as well.


Page -- 91

1. What character of the North-bank of the Brahmaputra does the author refer to ?

Answer- The author refers to the North bank of the river Brahmaputra with its unique features. Its own character is that it is vast, remote stretch of flat, ageless land between the sand rocks of the river Brahmaputra and the Himalayan foothills. The author further says that it was a strange place. He observed that the river dried up in the hot weather or suddenly disappeared underground there.

2. What information does the author give us about Manas wild Life sanctuary ?

Answer-   The author gives us information about the Manas Wildlife Sanctuary. He says that it is an area bordering the Himalayan state of Bhutan. There were a few rhinos in the sanctaury.

3. Describe the author's experience  of crossing a flooded river on horseback on the North baknk of the Brahmaputra .

Answer-   The author has narrated his experience of crossing a flooded river. Once he crossed the river on horseback with much  difficulty. He persuaded his mount to plunge into the river, then slipped over his croup and hung on to his tail as a rudder. When he pushed the tail to the right, the horse went to the left and vice versa. At last, somehow he crossed the river.

PAGE---92

1. Relate the author's experience of the road accident during the monsoon on the North- bank.

Answer-- The author had a horrible experience of driving a motor car along a one track road on embankment. It was during monsoon season and on the North bank of the river Brahmaputra.

          One day the author was touring with his family comprising of his wife, baby, ayah and some eqiupments as well. Besides, it had a single track road. Due to rainfall it become greasy. As a result one skid led to the other. The author lost his control over the car and it slithered over the edge into a paddy field about six feet below the road. At last he found his way back after much difficulty.

2. Relate the author's reminescence of the forest bunglow at Kulsi .

Answer--  The author says that the bunglow situated in Kulsi was his favourite place. Here, the bunglow was surrounded by the teak plantation. The trees were planted some sixty years before which looked almost mature then.

UNDERSTANDINT THE TEXT---

1. Give an accout of the author's experiences of the floods on the north bank of the Brahmaputra during the monsoon.

Answer--   There were many small rivers on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra. These rivers, many a times caused problems during monsoon. Most of these rivers were overflooded during rainy seasons. People had to make bamboo bridges for their convenience.

     However, once the author had to cross such a flooded river with difficulty. He was on horseback. He pursuaded his mount to plunge into the water. The author slipped over his croup and hung on to his tail. He had to use the tail as rudder. When he pushed it to the right, it veered to the left and vice versa. At last he made a safe landing on the other side of the river.

2. Relate the author's observation on the use of mar boat as a mode of river transport in Assam.

Answer--   The author has given us detail of his observation about 'Marboat'. It was a means of communication during monsoon. Infact, in those days, it was the only means of transport in the river of Assam. The common people used this type of boat to cross the river very often. 

     However, journey on a marboat was, of course, tedius. The mar which was, indeed, a ferry, consisted of a plank plateform covering two open boats placed alongside one another. These were either paddled across the river or connected by a running cable to another stretched across the river. They were propelled from one side to the other by the forces of the river current.

3. Give the author's description of a Sal forest. 

Answer--  The sal forest that the author described was situated on the south bank of the river Brahmaputra. It was, indeed a country place of two hills and villages. The trees of this forest interspersed with villages and cultivation. The trees of the forest mostly of sal. It had more the character of English woodland. 

4. Describe the author's experience with bats in the Rajapara forest bunglow.

Answer---  According to the author Rajapara forest bunglow was the second bunglow. It was a pleasant place to work in. Still, the author's favorite place was Kulsi. 
   
      However, different types of bat were found on the roof of the forest bunglow. At Rajapara. their droppigs were a constant reminder of their presence. Moreover, the fusty smell of the bats was always with them. The fruitt eating bats had wings of five feet length. They lived in the tree outside the bunglow. They flew away at dusk in search of food. They were a strange group of ghostly shapes gliding through the air.


Q.1. Give a brief description of 'Peacock Island'.

Answer-- The author states that the peacock island was situated in the middle of the river Brahmaputra. When the author enjoyed the splendid view of the island from the varanda of his bunglow, he could see the dome of a hindu temple also. He  saw it through the trees.

       Although the island was called peacock island, it was, infact dominated by monkey. The island housed no peacock at all.

EXTRA/ INSIDE QUESTION ANSWERS.........

1.Who is the Chota Sahib in 'Memories of Chota Sahib"?

Answer-- The last British senior conservationist of the forest of Assam, John Rowntree is the chota sahib here.

2. Who made their first home on the bank of the river brahmaputra ?

Answer-- The british forest officer John Rowntree and his family.

3.What did the PWD do to the bunglow for Rowntree ?

Answer--- The PWD had given the walls of the bunglow a coat of fresh lime wash and had painted the wood work liberally with earthen oil.

4. Name the book from where this lesson has been taken ?

Answer--  The book is -'A Chota Sahib' or Memories of Forest of Ficar.

5. Where does the hindu temple located ?

Answer-- The hindu temple was located in the peak of island.

6. What is mar ?

Answer-- Mar was a ferry consisted of plank plateform covering two open boats place along side one another.

7. What feature did Rowntree mention about the North-bank ?

Answer-- The north-bank had its own features.It was a vast remote stretch of flat and ageless land. It was located between the sand banks of the Brahmaputra and the Himalayan foothills.

8. What is ficas-elastica ?

Answr-- Ficas elastica is a type of rubber. It belongs to the fig family of which several other specis are found in Assam.

9. What animal did the author discover in the peak of the island?

Answer--Monkey


10. When or in which season was the north bank delighted ?

Answer--During the cold season or weather.


11. What are Bheel referred to in the lesson ?

Answer-- Bheel refers to the ponds or wetlands with motionless waters.

12. What was almost close to the Rajapara banglow ?

Answer-- A large Bheel.

13.What was found in the bheels of Kamrup district ?

Answer-- Wild foul, peafoul etc.

14. What do you mean by epiphytes ?

Answer-- Epiphytes are the plant that grows on other host plants.

15. Why were the paddy fields divided into small enclosures ?

Answer-- To prevent the water from running away (from the field)

16.What  disturbed the writer at Rajapara bunglow ?

Answer-- Bats

17. What tree sorrounds the bunglow of kulsi ?

Answer-- Teak plants.

18. Who was the last british forest conservator ?

Answer-- John Rowntree.

19. Name of fish mentioned in the lesson.

Answer-- Mahsheer

20.Who took land lease for commercial simul plantation?

Answer-- An english couple.

21.What is 'Cheetal' in the lesson ?

Answer-- The word cheetal refers to spotted deer (found in the forest of Assam)

22.Where does Ficaus Elastica belong to ?

Answer-- Fig family.

23. Which wood was preferred  for furniture in the market?

Answer-- the wood from Burma.

24. What happens to the host tree ?

Answer--The host tree is completely taken by the epiphytes and it is even killed.

25. Which Indian tree is mentioned in the last paragraph of the lesson?

Answer-- Bunian tree.


    ###########################

A ROADSIDE STAND_______BY ROBERT FROST


ABOUT THE POEM--

In this poem the poet says about the behaviour of the previledged class to th epoor peple.Here the roadside stand belongs to a poor family.The family members waits hopefully to get customers from the city. The shop (roadside stand) that they have is to draw attention of the city people, but their efforts are in vain.The city people do not pay attention to the shop and if herdly paid then they do not buy anything from the stand. The poet shows sympathy to them and hopes to help them as well. This great poet died on 29 january


ABOUT THE POET--

Robert Lee Frost was born on 26 march, 1874  in America. He was a realistic as well as nature poet.An important subject matter of his poem is rural life. He was also famous as a playwright. Frost was the poet who received four Pulitzer Prizes for poetry. This great poet died on 29 january, 1963.

SUMMARY OF THE POEM--

This poem deals with a roadside stand (shop). It brings a contrast between the difficulties of rural life and its people and the indifference shown by the city dwellers. The poet also criticises the exploitation of the hypocrite politicians who just keep on promising with such rural folks. These poor people always come across perpetual poverty which is unbearable for the poet Frost.



TEXTUAL QUESTION ANSWERS-

1.The city folk who drove through the counrtyside hardly paid any heed to the roadside stand or to the peoplewho ran it. If at all they did, it was to complain.Which lines bring this out. What was their complain about ?

Answer- The city folks who drove and passed the shade complain about the roadside stand. The lines in this context are as follows--

A) 'At having the landcsapemarred with the artless paint.'
B) of signs that with 'N' turned wrong and 'S' turned wrong.

      Their complaint was about the roadside stand which destroyed the charm of the entire landscape.

2. What was the plea of the folk who had put up the roadside stand ?

Answer-The folk who had put up the roadside stabnd pleaded fromthe city customers. They wish for the city money. They are very hopeful to welcome the cty people as their custoers and sell their goods stocked in the stand or shop.

3. The government and other social agencies appear to help the poor rural people, but do them no good.Pick out the words and phrases that the poet usage to show their double standard.

Answer- The government and other social service agencies seem to help the poor people fo the village, but in reality, they did not do good to them. The words and phrases are --

A) 'Grredy good-doers, beneficent beast of prey.'

B) 'That are calculated to soothe them out of their wits.'

4. What is the 'childish longing' that the poet refer to ? Why is it in 'vain'.

Answer- The expression 'childish longing' refers to meaningless waiting of the people associated with the roadside stand.It is quite childish and meaningless that they eagerly wait for city customers

     Their longing is in vain because in spite of their curious solicitation,a few customers turn up.

5.Which lines tell us about the insufferable painthat the poet feels at the thought of the plight of the rural poor ?

Answer- The poet is very much concerned about the plight of the rural poor. He feels pain at theirultimate fate or luck. He even wants to remove their pain and solve their continuous financial  problem at one stroke.



1/2 MARKS QUESTION AND ANSWERS.

1. Who composed the poem A Roadside Stand ?
Answer- Robert Frost

2. Where was the new shed put ?

Answer- The new shed was put by the side of the road.

3.why is the shed put there ?

Answer- To sell some vegetables, guards etc.

4. What is meant by 'but for some money' ?
 
Answer- The roadside stand was put to earn some money from city customers.

5.What is 'polished traffic'?

Answer- Polished traffic refers to the luxurious vehicles that pass by the roadside stand.

6.What do you mean by N and S turned wrong ?

Answer- This means the singboard of the roadside stand has alphabet N and S. Both N and S are wrongly painted.

7.What is sold in the roadside stand ?

Answer- wild berries.

8.What is in the news regarding the people of roadside stand ?

Answer- It is in the news that the government will be merciful to these people and settle them somwhere.

9.Who are called 'greedy good doers,and beast of prey'?

Answer- The poet called the authorities and the rulling class people as greedy good-doers and beast of prey.

10.What is meant by 'childish longing'?

Answer- Here 'childish longing' refers to the eaerly waiting  people related to the roadside stand. In fact, they eagerly wait for the city customers and their money.

11.What is open prayer in the poem ?

Answer- here open prayer means the poor wait and pray  at the roadside stand in the hope of getting rich customers from the city.

12.Why does the poet call 'selfish cars'?

Answer- The cars are regareded as selfish because they hardly wait in front of the stand, When they stand, they donot buy anything from the shop.

13.Why is the country scale of gain not counted ?

Answer- The country (village) scale of gain is not counted, because their gain and happiness is nominal that can be neglected.

14.What is the complaint of the country people ?

Answer- The complaint of these rural or country people is that their fate or luck has never changed.

15. What sadness lurks near the open window ?

Answer- According to the poet a number of vehicle pass by the open window but not a single one stops there to buy anything frm the shop.




INDIGO ___________Louis Fischer


INTRODUCTION -

           This chapter is taken from the book -The Life of Mahatma Gandhi, where a true picture of british colonialism and expliotation is found in detail. The place where the episode of sharecropping occcured is Champaran district of Bihar. By the time the british was looting the poor peasants of Bhar in the name of zamindari system and sharecropping, gandhiji was not so much popular in India.He just came back from England after becoming a barrister. However, this chapter gives us a real picture- how Gandhiji defetated the British in Bihar and become a popular freedom fighter across India. Besides this, he worked as an active social worker along with his disciples, wife, son and his followers both Indian and european. Overall, this chapter makes us understand the Gandhian way of fighting for fredom of the country.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

         Louis Fischer was born in 1896. His birthplace is Philadelphia. He worked in the british army, a journalis and also as a faculty member in Princeton University. He died in 1970.


TEXTUAL QUESTION ANSWERS

(Think as you read)

1.strike out what is not true in the following:-
A.Rajkumar Shukla was:
I) A sharecropper           ii) a politician
Iii) delegate                     iv) a landlord

Ans:- except  (i) , all three false

B. Rajkumar Shukla was :
I) poor                                ii) physically strong
Iii) illiterate.

Ans :ii - not true.

                              Page-47 

2. Why is Rajkumar Shukla described as being resolute .

Answer- Rajkumar Shukla is described as resolute, because he wanted gandhi to take up the case of the Champaran peasants with a view to getting help. As he wanted gandhi in Champaran, So he accompanied Gandhi until he was free. Finally, being impressed by his tenacity Gandhi agreed and came to Champaran of Bihar with Shukla.

3.Why do you think the servants thought gandhi to be another peasant >

Answer- In Patna, Shukla led gandhi to the house of Rajendra Prasad, a lawyer.The servants knew that Shukla was a poor peasant.So, the person who accompanied Shukla (Gandhi) was also supposed to be a peasant by them. Hence, both of them were let to stay on the ground.

                                       Page -49
1.List the places that gandhi visited between his first meeting with Shukla and his arrival at Champaran.

Answer- Rajkumar Sukla, at first met Gandhi in Lucknow. Then, after visiting many places of India, Gandhi returned to his Ashram in Ahmedabad. Shukla accompanied him there. Later, Gandhi went to Kolkata and boarded a train bound for Patna.Finally he visited Muzaffarpur and Motihari and reached Champaran.

2. What did the peasants pay the British landlords as rent ? What did the British now want instead and why ? What would be the impact of synthetic indigo on the prices of natural indigo ?

Answer- The peasants of Champaran were forced to plant 15% of their holdings with indigo plantation. They had to surrender the entire indigo harvest as rent at last.

   Actually, the british changed their policy of agreement since they came to know that cheap German synthetic  indigo was available in the market.The indian natural indigo could not compete with that of German. So, the british wanted compensation from the poor peasants so as to make themselves free.

                          PAGE-51

1.The events in this part of the text illustrate Gandhiji's method of working. Can you identify instances of this method and link them to his ideas od satyagraha and nn violence ?

Answer- Gandhi was issued a court order to leave Champaran. He disobeyed the order after signature even if he had deeply respected the british legal system.

         Howevrer, having arrived at Champaran, gandhi realised that the british officials were violating natural justice. Whereas he wanted to render humaniratian service to the exploited peasants. He put forwarded his view that nothing is superior to 'the voice of conscience'. In this way, gandhiji linked his method to his idea od satyagraha and non-violance.

                          PAGE-53
1.why did gandhi agree to a settlement of 25% refund to the farmers ?

Answer- The british thought that gandhi would ask for 100% refund of what they exploited from peasants. But gandhi asked just 50% refund. As the planters offered 25%, gandhi agreed immediately. To him the amount was not important. Rather, the british landlords were obliged to surrender part of their money and part of their prestige- gandhi argued.

2.How did the episode change the plight of the peasants ?

Answer- After the Champaran episode the peasants understood their rights. They become more confident and brave. Moreover, as soon as the british landlords abandoned their plantations  the peasants got back their lands. Indigo sharecropping disappeared from India for ever.

                           PAGE-54

UNDERSTANDING THE TEXT

1.Why do you think Gandhi considered the Champaran episode to be a turning -point in his life ?

Answer- The Champaran movement was the first indian mass movement aginst the british. It united the common Indian and also made them aware of rights in own country. This movement taught them political and economic liberty.Also this was the first victory (civil disobedience) against the british. This movement under Gandhi's leadership forced the british to give back indian money and lose their own prestige.

        Therefore, it was a turning point in gandhi's life.

2.How was gandhi able to influence lawyers ? Give instances.

Answer- As soon as the news of gandhi's arrival spread, the lawyers of Muzaffarpur called on (meet) him.They requested him to brief them. But Gandhi chided  (told negatively) them for taking huge fees from the poor peasants.
        Again after gandhi received summon (court order) from the british lawful authority to appear in the court, he requested Rajendra Prasad to bring influencial lawyers and persons.He conferred with them and finally commented that if all of them support him then they would win the 'battle of Champaran'.

3. What was the attitude of the average Indian in smaller localities towards advocates of 'Home rule' ?

Answer- The average indian were indifferent to the advocates of home rule. They did not have goodwll towards them. In fact, they did not rely on the advocates since they charged huge fees from the cliants or peasants.

4. How do you know that ordinary people too  contributed to the freedom movement ?

Answer- We know that with the support of people/peasant the Champaran episode was won. The same happened in case of Indian freedom struggle. The episode was the beginning and rising of the common indian. They understood their rights,unity.and worked together therafter. This , in the long run led to Independence from the british rule in 1947.



ADDITIONAL/ EXTRA QUESTION ANSWERS

1.What is Indigo ?

Answer- Indigo means akind of dark blue dye obtained from the indigo plants

2.Who is the author of this chapter ?

Answer - Louis Fischer

3. What was the event where Shukla met gandhiji ?

Answer- In the annual convention of the Indian National Congress in Lucknow,in December-1916

4. Why did Shukla meet gandhi ?

Answer- To discuss and get solution to the problem of Champaran peasants related to share cropping.

5. Who was Edward Gait ?

Answer- The Lieutenant Governor who summoned gandhi while in Champaran.

6.When did the author visit the ashram of gandhi ?

Answer- in 1942.

7.How many delegates participated in the INC convention in Lucknow in 1916 ?

Answer- Altogether 2,301 delegates.

8.Who was J.B.kripalani ?

Answer- A professor of the Arts college in Muzafforpur, Bihar.

9.Who was Professor Malkani ?

Answr- A teacher of a govt. School in Bihar.

10.What is arable land ?

Answer- The land which is capable of being ploughed and grown crops.

11. Which british official commissioner did gandhi meet ?

Answer- The commissioner of Tirhut divison.

12. Name two influencial leaders mentioned.

Answer- Rajendra Prasad and Brij Kishore Babu.

13.What is civil disobediance ?

Answer- The refusal to comply with certain British laws by Indian. It is kind of political protest.

14.Name Gandhi's wife.

Answer- kastuba Gandhi.

15. Name son of Gandhi.

Answer- Devdas.

16.What are the common medicines used in Champaran /

Answer- Castor oil, Quinine and sulphur.

17. Who was Charles Freer Andrews ?

Answer- An english pacifist who had become a devoted follower of Gandhi.

18. How long did gandhi stay in Champaran ?

Answer- Initially seven months and ltogether one year.

19. Who was Reverend J.Z.Hodge ?

Answer- A british Missionary who stayed in Champaran and observed the episode of Charecroppers.

20. What amount did gandhi demand and finally accepted ?

Answer- Gandhi demaneded 50% and agreed to accept only 25%.

21.Who were the two disciple of gandhi in Champaran ?

Answer- Narahari Parikh and Mahadev Desai.

22.In how many villages did Gandhi open school in Bihar ?

Answer- In six villages.

23. What did Ksturba teach to the women of Bihar ?

Answer- Ashram rules, personal cleanliness and community sanitation.

24.Why did gandhi visit Muzafforpur ?

Answer- To get the real picture of Zamindari system under the british.

25.Why did gandhi chide the lawyers of Bihar ?

Answer- For charging huge fees from the poor farmers.




                             

Job Application Exercises for Class 12 (With Solved Answers)


WHAT IS JOB APPLICATION ?

Job application means formal application to an employer, who has already advertised inviting job application from eligible candidates for his/her firm, Scool, college.


Job application is written by the candidate himself or herself. There should be two pages - one the application and the other is Bio data.
Exercise::



Exercise -


1. Write a job application for the post of Asst.Teacher (Science) in response to the advertisement published in an English newspaper on 10/5/2025.



Answer- 

To,
The Head Master/Principal
ABC .H.S.School
Kamrup, Guwahati (Assam)
Date - 15/5/25

Subject: Application for the post of Asst.Teacher (Science)

Rspected Sir,

      In response to your advertisement in The Assam Trbune, dated the 10th may/2025 and with reference to the subject cited above I have the honour to submit my candidature for the mentioned post. So far my educational qualification is concerned, I passed B.Sc in mathematics and B.Ed as well. Presently I have been working as Asst. Teacher in an english medium school.

       Therefore, I hope that you would kindly go through the photocopies of my educational qualifications and consider them with favour. I am committed to render my best services if appointed to the post.


Faithfully yours

Mr.XYZ


(Enclosed my detail bio-data)



                            BIO-DATA

Name :                                   Aruna Sarma
Father's name :                     Anjan Sarma
Address :                               House No- 12
                                              A.K Das Road
                                              Amingaon, Guwahati
Date of borth :                     30/09/1993
Nationality :                         Indian
Marital status :                    unmarried

Educational Qualification :

A) HSLC- 2005, SEBA, FRST DIV, 88%
B) HS-(SCIENCE) 2007-AHSEC, FIRST, 91%
C) B.SC- (MATH) 2010-G.U, 1ST CLASS-65%
D) B.ED- 2012, G.U, 1ST CLASS, 59%

Teaching Experience- :       4 years .
Language Known :      English, Assamese, Hindi



                         DECLARATION
I do hereby declare that above data is correct and genuine as per my knowledge is concerned. The photocopies of my certificates have been enclosed for your kind consideration.


                                                                                  Faithfully yours
                                                                                    Mr. ABC



Exercise-2: 


Write a job application for the post of Library Assistant in response to an advertisement published in The Assam Tribune on 10th May 2026.



Answer:

To, The Principal, 

City Global School, 

Guwahati, Assam.


Date: 15/05/2026


Subject: Application for the post of Library Assistant.


Respected Sir/Madam,


    In response to your advertisement published in The Assam Tribune dated 10th May 2026, I would like to offer my candidature for the post of Library Assistant in your esteemed institution.


    I have recently completed my Higher Secondary education in the Arts stream with a strong academic record. I possess a deep interest in book management and have basic computer knowledge, which I believe will be beneficial for maintaining library records. I am a hardworking and disciplined individual, ready to contribute sincerely to your school.


    Therefore, I request you to kindly consider my application. I have enclosed my detailed bio-data and photocopies of my certificates for your kind perusal. I look forward to the possibility of an interview.


Faithfully yours, 

[Your Name] 


(Enclosed: Detailed Bio-data)



                                                BIO-DATA

  • Name: Rohan Das

  • Father’s Name: Mr. Mukul Das

  • Address: House No- 45, Zoo Road, Guwahati, Assam

  • Date of Birth: 12/04/2007

  • Nationality: Indian

  • Marital Status: Unmarried

  • Educational Qualification:

    • A) HSLC: 2024, SEBA, First Division, 82%

    • B) HS (Arts): 2026, AHSEC, First Division, 78%

  • Technical Skills: Diploma in Computer Application (6 months).

  • Languages Known: English, Assamese, and Hindi.


                                                DECLARATION

I do hereby declare that the above data is correct and genuine to the best of my knowledge and belief.



Date: 15/05/2026 Place: Guwahati

                                                                                                Faithfully yours, Rohan Das



Keeping Quiet by Pablo Neruda: Summary & Question Answer



About the poet--


PABLO NERUDA was a Chilean poet. He was born on 12 July, 1904. He began his creative career since 13 years of age. He was also a diplomat. He was awarded Nobel Prize for literature in 1971. He wrote a number of poems and well known for his variety of styles. This poet died on 23 September, 1973.


About the poem---

The poem 'Keeping Quiet' is all about a universal appeal to all people across the globe to stop whatever work one does just for a while. The purpose behind this appeal is to introspect into ourselves and have mutual understanding among all. The poet suggests us all to withdraw from our harmful activities for a couple of seconds so as to make this earth a better place to live in.


Brief Summary:

In "Keeping Quiet," Pablo Neruda makes a universal plea for a moment of global silence and stillness. He suggests that if we all stop our frantic activities and count to twelve, we can enter an "exotic moment" of peace and introspection.

The summary of the poem contains core message which includes: The Power of Stillness: The poet argues that a temporary suspension of work, speech, and machinery ("without rush, without engines") would allow us to escape the cycle of constant movement and feel a sense of "sudden strangeness" and togetherness. Self-Introspection: Silence gives us the space to look inward. For example, the fisherman would stop harming whales, and the man gathering salt would finally have a moment to look at his "hurt hands." A New Perspective on Progress: Neruda critiques destructive "wars with gas" and "wars with fire," suggesting that victory in such conflicts is hollow if there are no survivors. Instead, he envisions enemies walking together in the shade like brothers. Life in Stillness: The poet clarifies that he does not advocate for "total inactivity" or death. He uses the Earth as a symbol: just as nature appears dead in winter only to prove it is alive in spring, a moment of silence can help us recharge and begin our lives with new energy.






TEXTUAL QUESTION ANSWER-


1. What will counting up to twelve and keeping still help us achieve ?

Answer-  the poet expects that we should keep quiet and stop our activities for a few seconds. He says that if we can do so then it would be an exotic moment. This will help us to gain new energy and begin our activities afresh.


2. Do you think the poet advocates total inactivity and death ?

Answer- No, the poet is not advocating total inactivity and death. He wishes that we should keep still just for a few moments. This will help us avoid rush and think about ourselves. This will also help us to restore our strength and live better life.


3. What is the sadness that the poet refers to in the poem ?

Answer- By the word 'sadness' he refers to our failure to understand ourselves. In fact, we are so busy that we have no time to introspect into our destructive activities. Hence, he suggests us to know ourselves and our works better and introspect in silence.


4. What symbol from the nature does the poet invoke to say that there can be life under apparent stillness ?

Answer-The poet invokes the symbol of the Earth to clarify that there is possibility of life under apparent stillness. The earth teaches us the best and helpful lesson of life.



EXTRA/ ADDITIONAL QUESTION ANSWER-


1.Name the poet of 'Keeping Quiet'?

Answer: The poet is Pablo Neruda.


2.Why does the poet want to count up to twelve?

Answer: The poet believes that counting up to twelve provides a necessary pause and the patience needed to introspect and reflect on our actions.


3.What does 'not speak in any language' mean?

Answer: This phrase indicates a state of complete silence, where the barriers of language are removed to create universal peace.



4.What is 'sudden strangeness'? 

Answer: It refers to the unexpected and wonderful feeling of togetherness and silence that humanity would experience if all movement stopped at once.



5.What would happen to a fisherman?

Answer: The fisherman would get a brief chance to stop his work and refrain from harming the whales in the sea.



6.What does the poet mean by 'wars'? 

Answer: The poet refers to wars as destructive activities (like green wars or wars with gas) that cause total ruin and leave no survivors to celebrate victory.


7.With what should one not get confused?

Answer: One should not confuse the poet’s plea for silence with "total inactivity" or death; he wants a temporary pause to gain perspective, not an end to life.



8.What does the Earth teach us? 

Answer: The Earth teaches us that there can be life under apparent stillness; just as nature seems dead in winter but flourishes in spring, silence can lead to rebirth.



9.What does the poet mean by 'without rush, without engines'? 

Answer: "Without rush" means an absence of the modern hurry and crowd, while "without engines" refers to the silence of vehicles and industrial machinery.



10. What does 'in the shade, doing nothing' mean? 

Answer: It describes a moment where everyone, including soldiers and those planning wars, sits together in brotherhood and peace, resting from their destructive tasks.




REFERENCE TO THE CONTEXT (RTC)


1. 'Fishermen in the cold sea
     Would not harm whales
      And the man gathering salt
      Would look at his hurt hands.'


1. Who is the speaker ?
2. When will the fishermen not harm whales?
3.Why will salt gathering man look at his hands?



Answer- 

1) The poet Pablo Neruda is the speaker here.
2) During the few moments that the poet suggests us to keep quiet.
3) The salt gathering men have no time usually, but the moments that the poets suggests to keep quiet, will help them to observe their hurt hands.




2. 'Perhaps the Earth can teach us
     As when everything seems dead
     And later proves to be alive."

1. What lesson does the earth teach us ?
2. What seems dead ?
3.What proves alive ?

Answer-
1. According to the poet the earth teaches us the best lesson on how to live in spite of all difficulties.
2. All hopes and aspirations seem dead at some crucial juncture of life.
3. The earth proves to be alive regardless of all adversities.






 RTC.

1. Reference to the Context (RTC) 


"Fishermen in the cold sea 

Would not harm whales 

And the man gathering salt 

Would look at his hurt hands."


These lines are quoted from the poem 'Keeping Quiet' written by the Chilean poet Pablo Neruda

    Through these lines, the poet discusses how a moment of silence allows humans to stop their harmful actions toward nature and themselves.

    In these lines, Pablo Neruda highlights how a moment of silence can end the cycle of violence and self-neglect. The poet suggests that in a state of quiet introspection, humans would stop their destructive exploitation of nature. It represents a shift from dominance to coexistence. The image of the "man gathering salt" looking at his "hurt hands" is powerful. It implies that we are often so caught up in the mindless "rush" of survival and work that we fail to notice our own pain or the damage we are doing to ourselves.


SOCIAL SCIENCE : POLITICAL SCIENCE , CHAPTER-1, SEBA :CLASS -X


 POLITICAL  SCIEMCE
INDIAN DEMOCRACY, LESSON -1


CHAPTER KEY PONTS

- Ideals of constitution
- Federal characteristics of the Indian constitution
-Parliamentary democracy in India


CHAPTER SUMMARY-

-The Indian constitutioncame into force on 26january. India was governed in accordance with the govt. Of India Act,1935 from August 15, 1947 to 26 january, 1950
-The significant word ibthis chapter are sovereign, secular, socialist, democratic and republic.
-The wor dfederation is not mentioned in Indian constitution as found in the USA.India is, rather a union of states in the Article No-1 mentioned in constitution.
-The Govt. Of India Act introduced the Parliamentary form of govt. In India.
-Overal, India is a parliamentary democratic state.



TEXTUAL QUESTON ANSWERS: (EXERCISE)

Very short question and answer;

1) which political party won the elections held in 1945 in England ?

Answer- 
    The labour Party won the elections held in July, 1945 in England.

2) When did the Cabinet Mission came to India?

Answer-
   The cabinet Mission came to India in March, 1946

3) Who was the first chairman of the Constituent Assembly ?

Answer-
    Dr. Sachindananda Sinha was the first Chairman of the Constituent Assembly.

4) Who was the president of the drafting committee of Indian Constitution ?

Answer- Dr. B.R.Ambedkar

  5) In which Constitutional amendment the words 'Socialist' and 'Secular' were incorporated in the Preamble ?

Answer- These two words were incorporated in the preamble of indian constitution by the 42nd constitutional Ammendment 1976.

6) From which Latin word has been the english word 'Federation' derived ?

Answer-
   The english word 'federation' has been derived fromthe'latin' word 'foedus'. It's literal meaning is agreement or treaty.

7) which country is regarded as the homeland of 'federation; ?

Answer-
  The United State of America.

8) Is there dual citizenship system in India ?

Answer-
  No, there is no dual citizenship in India.

9) From which countr's constitution has been the concept of Indian parliamentary democracy followed ?

Answer-
  From the constitution of England.


SHORT ANSWER-

Q.1) why did the British govt. Send the cabinet Mission to India ?

Answer-In the general election held in july, 1945 in england the labour party came to power. The new gevernment l\took the decision to decalre Independenace to India. Accordingly the labour party government of England felt the utmost necessity of constitution for the new democratic state of India.
    With a view to creating a good atmosphere and for framming a new cnstitution of India, the cabinet Mission came to India in march, 1946.

Q.2) According to which Act, Indian administration was governed between 15 august 1947 to 26 january, 1950 and who did enact this act ?

Answer-
  In accordance with the provisions of the Govt of India Act-1935 the Indian adminstration was governed between 15 August, 1947 to 26 january, 1950.
   
  This Act was enacted by the British parliament.

Q.3) why are the words 'we the people of India' have been incorporated in the preamble ?

Answer-
  The words 'we the people of india' have been incorporated in the preamble of the constitution for some special purpose. In fact, the makers of it made it crystal clear in definite terms that the actual authority of the constitution of India, are the people themselves. They are the main force behind the constitution.

Q.4) what is meant by the term 'sovereign' ?

Answer-
    The term 'sovereign' means the supreme power. It further means that India is no longer under any control of external power.

Q.5) SAME AS VERY SHORT QUESTION AND ANSWER.

Q6.What is meant by 'Quashi-federal state ?

Answer-
  The word 'quashi' means have some of the features, and 'federal' means - a system of govt. Where power is devided between the centre and other constituent units. 
   However, 'quashi-federal' menas nominal or relative federal system of government.

Q.7. Which Indian Act had introduced limited parliamentary democracy in pre independence India ?

Answer-
  The govt. Of India Act, 1935 had also introduced a parliamentary form of govt. In a limited form in the pre-independence India.



LONG ANSWERS QUESTIONS--

Q.1) Discuss how the ideals of the Indian Constitution have been amnifested in it's Preamble ?

Answer-
   The preamble if the introduction to the constitution. The mainfeatures of the constitution are found in the beginning. Here ideals and objectives of the constitution have been mentioned. So, the preamble of our constitution is regarede as the soul, the conscience. The threshhold and the key of Indian constitution.

   However, each and every word bears the ideals, philosophy and objectives of our constitution. The makers of our constitution paid much attention to the rich Indian culture, civilization and heritage.

 They have also made it clear that the actual authority of the constitution is the country people. The words like sovereign, secular, socialist, democratic and republic reflect the ideals and spirit of the constitution.

Q.2) write in detail about what is meant by sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic and republic .

Answer-
  These words are discussed as follows-

A) Sovereign: Sovereignty is the supreme and absolute power of india like other states. Externally or internally india is not subordinate to any other state.

B) Socialist : In the year 1976, on 42nd Amendment, this word s incorporated in our constitution. It means there will be no inequality among the people of india. Equality will prevail in their income, status, lving standard, economic condition etc.

C) Secular: It has been mentioned in the constitution that India has not any state language.All religions are equal here in the eyes of the government.This word was also incorporated on 42nd amendment of the constitution.

D) Democratic: India is a democratic country where representatives are elected by poeple elect their representative through diret voting system.

E) Republic: The head of the state is  elected by the people here. The post of head is not hirarchial or as like as kings or queens of many other country.


Q.3) Discuss the objective resolutions put forwarded by Pandit Nehru in relation to the Indian constitution.


Answer-
  Pandit Nehru, the first prime Minister of India put forwarded a few objective resolutions of the constitution at the first sitting of the constituent Assembly. The date was 9th December, 1946.The Assembly accepted the resolutions on 22 january,1947.Those resolutions were adopted as the basis of making the constitutio.
  
  The main points of the objective resolution are as follows:-

A) The constituent Assembly is determined to declare India as Independent Sovereign Republic.

B) A union of state shall be constituted with the britis-ruled India territory and the earst while princely kingdom willing to join the Indian territory.

C)  Social, political and economic justice, equality, religious liberty, freedom of expression and opinion of Indian people will be duely recognised.

D) There shall be safeguards for the schedule caste, tribes, backward and minority people of India.

E) safeguard to freedom, sovereingthy and integriety of the country.

F) Concentration of International relation, world peace and welfare of the people.

G) The government and the constituent parts shall obtain their power form the people.

H)The indegenous princely states interested to join the Indian union shall enjoy the status of its constituent province through self-governance with the residuary power.


Q.4. Discuss the characteristics of the Indan federal system.

Answer-
  The federal featurs are as follows-

A)Written constitution: our constitution is the longest written document conatining 395 articles and 12 sxhedules. It fulfils the basic requirements of a federal govt. 

B) Supremacy of the constitution: The Indian constitution is supreme and above all. Any violation of it;s provision means going against the constitution.

C) Rigid constitution: Any provosion of the union-state relation can be amended by the joint session of the stae lagislature and of the union govt.Any amendment is passed by a two third majority of the members present.

D) Division of power: As per the 7th schedule of our constitution power may be distributed among the union list, state list and the concurrent list. The Union list has 97 subjects, the state list has 66 subjects and the concurrent list has 47 subjects.

E) Independent Judiciary:  The supreme court is the apex court of the country.It gives the final verdict.

F) Bicameral legislature:  The constitution of India provides for a bicameral legislature at the centre consisting of lok sabha and Rajya sabha. Lok sabha consisted of the elected representatives by the people. Whereas Rajya sabha consisted of the representatives elected by the state lagislative assemblies.

G) Dual government: India has a central and a state govt. 



Q.5.Explain the important characteristics of the Parliamentary form of goct. In Inda.

Answer-
  Parliamentary form of govt. Is that where there exists an close relationship between the executive and the lagislative departments.Here, the cabinate is the real executive.The main features of parliamentary form of govt are as follows:

1) Existance of titular or constitutional ruler: Here administration is carried out by the council of ministers. The president is the nominal head whereas the Prime Minister is the real head of the state.

2) Absence of seperation of power: The principle of seperation of power is not adopted in this form of govt.

3) Role of legislature; Lagislature or the lower house plays a vital role in the formation of the ministry. The leader of the majority party is appointed the PM.

4) collective responsibility: The legislatures may have two kinds of responsibility-individual and collective. They have accountability for their activities whether personal or collective.
5) Executive and legislature relationship: This relation is very close. The majority party members form the cabinet.

6) Leadership of the PM: The PM is ;Primus interpares'- the first among the equals. He possesses greater power than his cabinet colleagues.

7) Role of the opposition: The rople of the opposition party is very vital in parliamentary form of govt.They point out and if needed criticse the activities of the rulling party.

8) Cabinet dictatorship: In this govt, cabinet is  the 'steering wheel of the ship of the state'.Naturally dictatorship is not possible in this form of govt.



EXTRA QUESTION AND ANSWERS::

1. How long did british rule over India ?

 Answer- For nearly two centuries (from 1757-1947)

2. Name the political party that came to power in England in 1945.

Answer-The labour Party.

3.When did the British govt send the cabinet Mission to India ?

Answer- In march, 1946.

4.Who presided over the first sitting of the constient Assembly of India ?

Answer- Sacchindananda Sinha.

5. What is the basis of the federal system in India ?

Answer-The federal system in India was introduced in the basis of two-the govt. And the distribution of power.

6. What does the word 'federation' mean?

Answer- The word federation means 'Agreement or treaty'.

7. Where was the first federation system introduced ?
 
 Answer- in the USA

8. Which constitution was followed while choosing federal system for India ?

Answer-The constitution of Canada.

9) What is preamble ?

Answer- Preamble is the introduction to the constitution.

10) When was sarkaria commission set up ?

Answer- In 1983

11) When Indian constitution came into force ?

Answer- on 26 january, 1950.

12. What is cooperative federation ?

Answer-cooperative federation means a system where the centre-state relationship is sound.

13.Where is heirarchial king or queen is found /

Answer- In England

14.What is called House of Lords ?

Answer- The Upper House of England is called House of Lords.

15.What is called the soul of Indian constitution ?

Answer- The Preamble.



MULTIPLA CHOICE QUESTIONS (MCQ)


1. Is there sual citizenship in India ?

A) No         b)yes     c) going to be introduced   d) one of the above.

Answer- a) No

2. Which party wn election in England in 1945.

A) The labour party
B) The Communist party
C) The workers party.
D) The royal party.

Answer- A) The labour party.

3. The word 'foedos 'mean-

A) War and Peace 
B) war and agreement
C) War and destruction
D) Agreement and treaty.

Answer- D)Agreement and treaty

4. The wrd 'federation' comes from-

A) The greek word foedos
B) The American word foedos
C) The latin word foedos
D) The canadian word foedos.

Answer- C) The Latin word foedos.

5. The permanent President of the Constituent Assembly was-

A) Dr.B.R>Ambedkar
B) Dr.Rajendra Prasad
C) Jawaharlal Nehru
D) Gopal Krishna Golhlee.

Answer- A) Dr.B.R Ambedkar

6.The first meeting of the constituent Assembly was held on-

A)9th Dec/'1947
B) 10th Dec/1947
C) 9th Dec/1946
D) 9th Dec/1945.

Answer- c)9th Dec/1946

7. The largest democratic country in the world is-

A) India
B) Canada
C) England
D) China

Answer- A) India

8.Indian govt is-

A)Parliamentary
B)Presidential
C) Federal
D) Unitary

Answer- A) Parliamentary