Author Archives: Rohit

Exercise (Page 46)

1.What was Vijay Singh’s weakness? Which awkward situation did it push him into?
Ans: Vijay Singh was a wrestler. He was proud of his physical strength. His chief weakness was that he was boastful. He wanted to meet a ghost and teach him a lesson.
His weakness pushed him into a difficult situation. He was told to go to the Haunted Deserts to meet the ghost. He could not say ‘No’ to the suggestion.

2. Was the old woman’s gift to Vijay Singh eccentric? Why?
Ans: The old woman was known to be eccentric or whimsical. She put a small packet into Vijay Singh’s hand. It contained a lump of salt and an egg. It was not an eccentric act. Both the gifts proved very useful in his fight against rhe ghost.

3. Why did Vijay Singh ask the ghost disguised as Natwar to come closer?
Ans: Vijay Singh asked the ghost in the guise of Natwar to come closer. Like all good wrestlers, he wanted to size up his enemy ghost.

4.What made the ghost speechless? Why?
Ans: ‘ Vijay Singh tried to sound brave. He looked at Natwar’s face. He declared that Natwar was a plain, lying ghost. The ghost felt insulted, shocked and speechless.

5. Why did Vijay Singh say “Appearances can be deceptive”?
Ans: The ghost first tried to demoralise Vijay Singh. He said that Vijay Singh was no match to him. At this Vijay Singh also tried to frighten the ghost. He agreed to demonstrate his strength.

Exercise (Page 51)

1. How did Vijay Singh use the egg? How did he use the lump of salt?
Ans: Vijay Singh challenged the ghost to squeeze a piece of rock. The ghost tried his best but could not crush the piece of rock. Vijay Singh took advantage of the darkness. He took out the egg from his pocket. Taking the rock as well as the egg, he pressed the egg and claimed victory. Next time, he picked up another piece of rock and gave it to the ghost to crush it. The ghost again tried his best to crush the stone but in vain. Meanwhile Vijay Singh took out the lump of salt from his pocket and crushed it easily. This time too, he proved himself victorious. Thus, by using the egg and the lump of salt he successfully outwitted the ghost.

2. Why did Vijay Singh conclude that the ghost would not be a worthy opponent to him? Was he fair in his judgement?
Ans: Vijay Singh claimed victoiy over the ghost dishonestly. He gave the ghost a piece of rock on both the occasions. The ghost failed to crush them while Vijay Singh made use of the salt and the egg successfully. Thus he proved the ghost a weakling in an unfair manner.

3.Why did Vijay Singh ask the ghost to accompany him to town next day?
Ans: Vijay Singh wanted to take the ghost to his town to impress his people. He wanted to present the ghost there as his prisoner.

4.What made the ghost believe Vijay Singh was dead?
Ans: Vijay Singh saw through the ghost’s plan. He got out of the bed and put a round pillow in his place. The ghost struck the bolster hard with his mace or heavy stick. Since he didn’t hear any groan, he took into his head that Vijay Singh was dead.

5. Vijay Singh complained of insects in the cave. What was he referring to, and why?
Ans: Vijay Singh complained of insects in the cave. He was, in fact, referring to the ghost. He compared the ghost to a hateful weakling like an insect.

6.Was it really a ghost who Vijay Singh befooled? Who do you think it was?
Ans: The story of the trial of strength between a ghost and Vijay Singh cannot be true or believable. Nobody can see a ghost in human form. It does not live in a house or a cave. It does not collect wealth. It does not panic or run away in fear.The ghost in the stoiy was, only a dacoit who used to rob the rich and kill them

I.SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1. Who was Vijay Singh? What did he look like?
Ans: Vijay Singh was a famous wrestler. He was unbeatable. He had big shoulders and strong arms. He was so tall that he looked like a giant.

2. This pahalwan had but one shortcoming. What was that?
Ans: Vijay Singh’s one shortcoming was his habit of boasting. He wished to fight with a ghost and teach him a lesson.

3. How did Vijay Singh feel when he was told to go to the Haunted Deserts?
Ans: Vijay Singh was frightened when he was asked to go to the Haunted Deserts. His heart missed a beat or two at the thought of fighting with a ghost.

4. Who really helped Vijay Singh in defeating the ghost? How?
Ans: An old woman really helped Vijay Singh against the ghost. She gave him a packet containing a piece of salt and an egg. These two things helped him befool the ghost.

5. Quote words that Vijay Singh uses to insult and demoralise the ghost.
Ans: A plain, lying ghost, stupid ghost, a worthless ghost, a rascal of a ghost.

II.LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1. In what respect was the wrestling match strange? Who were the two ri­vals? Who was the winner?
Ans: The wrestling match was strange because it was a light between a man and a ghost. The wrestler Vijay Singh had one weakness. He was boastful of his strength. This pushed onto an awkward situation. He accepted the challenge to fight a ghost in a haunted desert. The two gifts given by an old woman proved veiy useful. One was an egg and the other a lump of salt. It was in fact a trial of wit and wisdom. Finally Vijay Singh won the match and returned home with lots of gold.

2. Give a character sketch of Vijay Singh. How did he outwit the ghost?
Ans: yijay Singh was a famous wrestler. He was boastful of his physical strength. He declared that he was unbeatable. His tall claim pushed him into trouble. He was challenged to fight a ghost. He went through the Haunted Desert. He carried a small packet containing an egg and a piece of salt. He used them wisely to befool and frighten the ghost. He crushed easily the lump of salt and cracked the egg. As it was dark, the ghost couldn’t understand Vijay’s trick and accepted his defeat. Thus Vijay won the match by cheating and his su­perior wit.

3. How did the old woman’s little gifts help Vijay Singh in vanquishing the ghost?
Ans:  Vijay Singh was a bom and unbeatable wrestler. But his one great weakness 1 was his boastfulness. Once he was called upon to prove his power and fear­lessness. He went through a haunted desert to fight the ghost. An old woman’s gift of an egg and a piece of salt helped him befool and outwit the ghost. He squeezed the egg as well as the salt to prove his prowess. In the ghost’s cot­tage too he acted wisely and saved his life.

4. How did Vijay Singh outwit the ghost with his wit and wisdom?
Ans:  Vijay Singh made good use of the old woman’s gift—an egg and a lump of salt. He challenged the ghost to squeeze a piece of rock. The ghost failed to do that. Vijay Singh took out the egg from his pocket and squeezed it easily. The ghost was non-plussed and he accepted defeat. Vijay Singh then threw another chal­lenge. He gave another piece of rock to the ghost to crush. The ghost failed to crush the rock. Vijay Singh took out the piece of salt from his pocket and cmshed it easily. The ghost felt demoralised and again accepted his defeat.

5. How did the ghost make a plan to trick Vijay Singh finally?
Ans: The ghost invited Vijay Singh to his cave. He vowed silently to kill the wres­tler. He offered Vijay Singh a comfortable bed to sleep on. Vijay Singh saw through the ghost’s trick. He lay awake and at mid night, he slipped off his bed. He put a bolster in his place on the bed. Early next morning the ghost hit the bolster with his club. He took his enemy for dead. But. Vijay Singh faced the ghost who panicked. He fled from the cave leaving behind all his wealth for Vijay Singh.

1. In what way is Pambupatti different from any other village?
Ans:While the people in other villages clashed with one  another,    people of Painbupatti lived in peace. They did not fight in the   name of    religion  or language. In this way, Pambupatti is different from any other village.

2. Why is Prem determined not to return to his village?
Ans: Prem had left his village when the people had gone mad.  They set the houses on fire and killed one another. So Prem is determined not to return to his village.

1. In what way is Pambupatti different from any other village?
Ans:While the people in other villages clashed with one  another,    people of Painbupatti lived in peace. They did not fight in the   name of    religion  or language. In this way, Pambupatti is different from any other village.

2. Why is Prem determined not to return to his village?
Ans: Prem had left his village when the people had gone mad.  They set the houses on fire and killed one another. So Prem is determined not to return to his village.

3. Why did Makara dislike tortoises, snakes and lizards? Write a line about each.
Ans:Makara disliked tortoises because they were slow and stupid. They even carried their houses on their backs. He disliked snakes because they were slimy and they made funny noises. Makara hated lizards because they were undependable because they changed colour.

4. What went wrong when the tortoises, snakes and lizards left the forest?
Ans: There came a tough time. The forest got filled with foul smell of rotting fruits and fishes in the absence of tortoises. Rats multiplied in the absence of snakes and without lizards, there were millions of insects in the forests.

5. Why do you think Prem wants to tell the story of the reptiles to the people of his village?
Ans: The people of Prem’s village had gone mad. They fought with one another in the name of religion. The story of Pambupatti gave the message of peace and coexistence. It underlined the importance of living together. So Prem wanted to carry that message to his own village.

6. Do you agree that it is difficult not to go along with someone who is very strong and powerful? Express your views frankly and clearly.
Ans: It is true that the common people are peace loving and weak. They live in constant fear of the strong and powerful. It is human nature to go with the strong, to be on the safe side. But the people also stand up against the bully when they are driven to the wall. They take up arms and fight the enemy successfully.

7. If you were a baby crocodile, would you tell Makara that he was wrong? What would you say to convince him?
Ans: As a baby crocodile, I have a privilege to oppose my parents boldly. I would tell the elders that this world is a common property of all living creatures. To convince my dad, Makara, that he is wrong, I will give him a couple of reasons. First, it is the duty of the strong to protect the weak, and not to harass them. Secondly, this earth is not the sole property of any one person or animal. All are inter-dependent. Together, they make this earth a place worth-living.

I.SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1.What was it that made Prem leave his village?
Ans: The communal riots in his village made life unsafe in the village. The people went mad, burnt houses and killed one another. So Prem left his village for good.

2. What surprised Prem in Pambupatti village?
Ans. Prem had seen people in his village fighting in the name of religion or language. But in Pambupatti, there was no violence, not even tension. People lived in peace. They also cared for the welfare of even strangers. This was something surprising for Prem.

3.What happened to the reptiles in the forest once?
Ans: The reptiles in the forest included crocodiles, snakes, turtles and lizards. Makara being strong and selfish, drove all other reptiles out. He got rid of turtles, snakes and lizards one by one. But this created the problem of frogs ‘ and rats and insects.

4. How did the forest become normal and peaceful again?
Ans:  It was a terrible time for the crocodiles. A small crocodile pointed out what had gone wrong. They knew that Makara was not all that strong and right. They called all their reptile friends back to Pambupatti. Their arrival marked the beginning of normal and peaceful life again in the forest.

II.LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1. Narrate the story of the reptiles as told by Zai Whitaker in not more than 80 words.
Ans:  Prem was a native of a village far from Pambupatti. Communal riots broke out and Prem left the village. He walked and got free lifts. He reached Pambupatti. There an old man told him a tale of reptiles—snakes, crocodiles, lizards and turtles. Makara, the biggest crocodile was the master of the forest. He became selfish and vain. He managed to get rid of all the cobras and other reptiles. As a result the forest was infested with rats. Awful things happened. The reptiles were welcomed back to strike a balance.

2. What is the story’s underlying message or advice to the readers? Do you also support the author’s view?
Ans:  The story of the reptiles is a myth but it has a moral and a message. This world belongs to all sorts of creatures. Together they keep a balance. Every kind of creature serves a useful purpose. It is sad that man is trying to kill all the species and rule over the world like a dictator. This is certainly not practicable or in his own interest. Our motto should be to ‘Live and Let Live’. I quite subscribe to this view.

3. Why did Makara dislike tortoises, snakes and lizards? Write a line about each.
Ans:Makara disliked tortoises because they were slow and stupid. They even carried their houses on their backs. He disliked snakes because they were slimy and they made funny noises. Makara hated lizards because they were undependable because they changed colour.

4. What went wrong when the tortoises, snakes and lizards left the forest?
Ans: There came a tough time. The forest got filled with foul smell of rotting fruits and fishes in the absence of tortoises. Rats multiplied in the absence of snakes and without lizards, there were millions of insects in the forests.

5. Why do you think Prem wants to tell the story of the reptiles to the people of his village?
Ans: The people of Prem’s village had gone mad. They fought with one another in the name of religion. The story of Pambupatti gave the message of peace and coexistence. It underlined the importance of living together. So Prem wanted to carry that message to his own village.

6. Do you agree that it is difficult not to go along with someone who is very strong and powerful? Express your views frankly and clearly.
Ans: It is true that the common people are peace loving and weak. They live in constant fear of the strong and powerful. It is human nature to go with the strong, to be on the safe side. But the people also stand up against the bully when they are driven to the wall. They take up arms and fight the enemy successfully.

7. If you were a baby crocodile, would you tell Makara that he was wrong? What would you say to convince him?
Ans: As a baby crocodile, I have a privilege to oppose my parents boldly. I would tell the elders that this world is a common property of all living creatures. To convince my dad, Makara, that he is wrong, I will give him a couple of reasons. First, it is the duty of the strong to protect the weak, and not to harass them. Secondly, this earth is not the sole property of any one person or animal. All are inter-dependent. Together, they make this earth a place worth-living.

I.SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1.What was it that made Prem leave his village?
Ans: The communal riots in his village made life unsafe in the village. The people went mad, burnt houses and killed one another. So Prem left his village for good.

2. What surprised Prem in Pambupatti village?
Ans. Prem had seen people in his village fighting in the name of religion or language. But in Pambupatti, there was no violence, not even tension. People lived in peace. They also cared for the welfare of even strangers. This was something surprising for Prem.

3.What happened to the reptiles in the forest once?
Ans: The reptiles in the forest included crocodiles, snakes, turtles and lizards. Makara being strong and selfish, drove all other reptiles out. He got rid of turtles, snakes and lizards one by one. But this created the problem of frogs ‘ and rats and insects.

4. How did the forest become normal and peaceful again?
Ans:  It was a terrible time for the crocodiles. A small crocodile pointed out what had gone wrong. They knew that Makara was not all that strong and right. They called all their reptile friends back to Pambupatti. Their arrival marked the beginning of normal and peaceful life again in the forest.

II.LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1. Narrate the story of the reptiles as told by Zai Whitaker in not more than 80 words.
Ans:  Prem was a native of a village far from Pambupatti. Communal riots broke out and Prem left the village. He walked and got free lifts. He reached Pambupatti. There an old man told him a tale of reptiles—snakes, crocodiles, lizards and turtles. Makara, the biggest crocodile was the master of the forest. He became selfish and vain. He managed to get rid of all the cobras and other reptiles. As a result the forest was infested with rats. Awful things happened. The reptiles were welcomed back to strike a balance.

2. What is the story’s underlying message or advice to the readers? Do you also support the author’s view?
Ans:  The story of the reptiles is a myth but it has a moral and a message. This world belongs to all sorts of creatures. Together they keep a balance. Every kind of creature serves a useful purpose. It is sad that man is trying to kill all the species and rule over the world like a dictator. This is certainly not practicable or in his own interest. Our motto should be to ‘Live and Let Live’. I quite subscribe to this view.

1. What did the physicians ask Saeeda’s mother to do to get well? Did their advice help her? If not, why?
Ans: The physicians advised Saeeda’s mother not to take normal food, and to remain shut in a small dark room.

2.What did the specialist prescribe in addition to medicine?
Ans: The specialist prescribed some effective but costly medicines. He told her to eat chapati, vegetables, milk, fruits, etc. He asked her to shift to a bigger room with windows and doors open. Above all, she should sit in the sun every mornjng for an hour and breathe in fresh air.

3. What did Saeeda tell the sunrays to do?
Ans: Saeeda made a special request to the sunrays to help her mother get well. She asked them to come the next day with lots of warmth and brightness.

4.Why were the sunrays keen to go down to the earth the next day?
Ans:The sunrays had promised to help Saeeda. They had made a pact with her that they would bring down warmth and brightness. So they were keen to go down to the earth the next day. They forced their way through the dark, dirty clouds.

I.SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1.Who made the pact with the sun? What was it about?
Ans: The small girl Saeeda made a pact with the sun. Her mother was not well. She needed the warmth of the sun and fresh air. So in her mysterious language, she requested the rays of the sun to come the next day with lots of warmth.

2. What assurance did the sunrays give to Saeeda?
Ans: The sunrays granted Saeeda’s request. They promised to reach the earth at the fixed hour the next morning.

3. Why did the sun ask the rays to stay up in the sky?
Ans: The pathway to the earth was blocked by thick, dark clouds. The sun warned the rays to keep clear of the dark clouds. But all the rays refused to obey their father’s command. They got through the clouds and thus ,kept their word to Saeeda.

4. How did Saeeda’s mother feel on that sunny day?
Ans: Saeeda’s mother felt the sun on her face and she breathed in fresh air. She thought she was in a new world. Her eyes shone bright and she started recovering speedily.

II.LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1. Comment on the aptness of the title of the story, ‘A Pact with the Sun’. What message or idea does the story bring home to you?
Ans: ‘A Pact with the Sun’ is an educative story. It tells us that fresh air, and sunshine in the open are the key to sound health. Even the sick people need these two things. They must not be kept confined in dark room. They should get normal food.
The story tells us Saeeda’s mother was denied healthy food, sunshine and fresh air. She remained sick. But her daughter made a pact with the sunrays to warm up the ailing old woman. And the results were wonderful.

2.Who made the pact with the Sun and why? How did the pact prove fruitful?
Ans: Saeeda’s mother had been ailing for quite some time. No medicine proved effective. She was shut up in a small dark room. The cloudy weather continued for a few days. So Saeeda, the little girl, made a request to the rays of the sun to come down to the earth and give warmth to the ailing woman. The sunrays agreed and also kept their word. They came down in large numbers and gave ‘ new life to Saeeda’s mother. In this way Saeeda’s pact with the sunrays helped her mother get well.

1. What is the most obvious advantage of sleep?
Ans: The most obvious advantage of sleep is that it gives rest to our tired body. After a good sleep we become alert and active again for the day’s work.

2. What happens to our body when we sleep?
Ans: When we sleep, our body gets much needed rest. Our muscles relax. Our heartbeat slows down. Our blood pressure also falls.

3. Define a dream in your own words.
Ans:  A dream is an activity of the mind that takes place when we are asleep.

4. Why are dreams important? Mention two reasons.
Ans:  Dreams are important for two reasons:
(i)They help us sleep in spite of noise and other disturbances.
(ii)Some dreams provide a solution to certain problems.

5. Why has sleep been called a wonder?
Ans:  Sleep has been called a wonder because nobody knows for certain what brings about sleep. Secondly, it transports us to a strange land. It is the sweetest thing in the world. It is a sort of escape from reality.

6. Describe briefly to the class an improbable dream you have ever had.
Ans: I had a very funny, and uncommon dream last night. I saw two bulls locking their horns in the street. They fought fiercely. The people kept at a safe distance. One of the bulls fell to the ground. The other began to goad him with its horns. I kept a watch on their activities for a while. When I noticed the fallen animal in serious trouble, I intervened. I fired the air gun. It raised a thundering sound. Then I shouted to the bull to stop fighting. It left its victim and walked away.

I.SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1. How does the author define ‘sleep’?
Ans: Sleep is a state of rest.

2.Why is it necessary to enjoy sound sleep?
Ans: Sleep gives rest to our tired body. After a good sleep we feel fresh, alert and active.

3.What happens when we are asleep?
Ans: We start dreaming. Our muscles relax. Our body temperature falls. Our heartbeat becomes slower. The ever-active brain also slows down.

4. What is a dream?
Ans: Dream is an activity of the mind that takes place only when we are asleep.

5. Are all our dreams probable or improbable?
Ans: Some dreams are probable. It means that many of the things that happen in dreams could happen when we are awake. But other dreams are improbable.

6.What is one thing that dreams can never tell?
Ans: Dreams can never tell the future.

7.What have certain doctors found about dreams?
Ans: Certain doctors think that our dreams can provide a key to the solution of problems.

II.LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1.Why does the author call sleep a wonder?
Ans: Sleep is a good tonic. The body and brain recover from weariness after a good sleep. Sleep is a state of rest. When we wake up, we feel fresh, become alert and ready for the normal activities of the day. During sleep, our muscles relax and the heart beat becomes slower. Sleep is the most common experience. But very few people know how wonderful it is.

2. What is the significance of dream?
Ans: What is a dream? We have strange, funny and even frightening dreams as we sink into sleep. The brain can’t think or act consciously when we fell asleep. Some dreams are believable, and could happen when we are awake. But tnost of them are absurd. Dreams are important because they help us to sleep through noise even. Some doctors say that one’s dreams can suggest solutions to one’s problem or tell the future. But this is not wholly true.

1. The monkey was happy living in the fruit tree, but his happiness was not complete. What did he miss?
Ans: The monkey was happy in his fruit tree home. He had plenty to eat, but he had no company. He felt lonely. He needed a companion to talk to and also to share his fruits.

2. What did the two friends generally talk about?
Ans: The monkey and the crocodile became fast friends. They talked about birds  and animals. They also discussed the difficulties of the farmers when the rain failed.

3. Why was the crocodile’s wife annoyed with her husband one day?
Ans: One day, the crocodile overstayed with the monkey. His wife had to manage the little ones alone. So she was annoyed with him.

4.Why was the crocodile unwilling to invite his friend home?
Ans: The crocodile’s wife wanted to eat the heart of the monkey. The crocodile refused to oblige her. He could not betray his fast friend. He shouted at her angrily.

5. What did the crocodile tell the monkey midstream?
Ans: The crocodile could not displease his wife for the sake of his friend. One day he let the monkey sit on his back, and sailed out. He reached the midstream. Then he revealed his evil plan. He admitted that he meant to kill him and take his heart to his wife.

6. How did the monkey save himself?
Ans: The monkey was sad and terrified. But he was clever enough to make a plan to save his life. He said that he would gladly give away his heart to his friend’s wife. But unfortunately he had left his heart on the tree. The stupid crocodile swam back to the tree to collect the heart. The monkey jumped on to the tree and thus saved himself.

7. What does the last sentence of the story suggest? What would the crocodile tell his wife?
Ans: The crocodile was in a fix. He wanted to make an excuse for his failure. He told his wife that the monkey would be reaching there soon with lots of fruit as well as his heart.
or
Finally the crocodile would muster courage to tell have in strong and effective terms how she had spoiled a good relationship and that then w^rcre areas where she really had to improve and change herself.

I.SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1. Why was the monkey happy/unhappy?
Ans: The monkey was happy because he had plenty of sweet fruits to eat. He was unhappy because he was alone. He had no friend to talk to and share the fruits with.

2. How did the monkey and the crocodile become good friends?
Ans: Both of them missed a friend to talk to. So they came close. Secondly, the monkey had lots of tasty fruit to give to the crocodile.

3. Why did the crocodile’s wife want to eat the monkey’s heart?
Ans: The crocodile’s wife was annoyed with him for spending a lot of time with the monkey. She was fed up with managing the young ones alone. So she planned to get rid of the monkey once for all.

4.Why did the crocodile agree to fulfil his wife’s demand?
Ans: The crocodile loved his wife. He was also very fond of his friend, the monkey. He, finally, decided to betray his friend and please his life partner.

5. How did the monkey respond to crocodile’s invitation?
Ans: The monkey readily agreed to go with his friend. But he was not a swimmer. He rode on the crocodile’s back. And they set out.

6.‘The monkey was scared and depressed’. Why? .
Ans: The monkey saw the danger to his life. The thought of his sure death made him sad and afraid.

7. What did the monkey do as he reached the tree?
Ans: The clever monkey climbed the tree. He offered some fruit to his friend. He declared that they won’t meet again.

II.LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1. Narrate the story of the friendship between the monkey and the crocodile in about 80 words.
Ans: A monkey lived in a fruit tree on the river bank. But he was unhappy because he had no companion. He made friends with a crocodile and sent fruits for his wife. One day, the crocodile’s wife expressed her wish to eat the monkey’s heart.
The crocodile persuaded his friend to accompany him. But the monkey was not a swimmer and therefore he rode on the crocodile’s back. They set out. When they came in midstream the crocodile disclosed his evil plan. The monkey was taken aback to hear the crocodiles’s plan. He said he had left his heart behind on the tree. As he returned to the river bank, he climbed up the tree.

2. How did the crocodile plan to please his wife? How did the monkey use his wits and save his life?
Ans: The crocodile was a good friend of the monkey who gave him lot of fruits for him as well as his wife. One day the crocodile returned home late. The wife was annoyed. She wanted him to break up with his friend. So she washed to eat the monkey’s heart. The crocodile carried his friend on his back. In midstream he disclosed his wife’s plan. The monkey was clever enough to save his life. He said he had left his heart behind on the tree. As the two came back to the tree, the monkey climbed up.

1. Why did Swami Haridas say Tansen was ‘talented’?
Ans: Tansen, as a child, learnt to imitate the calls of birds and animals. One day he roared like a tiger in the forest. He intended to frighten the travellers. Swami Haridas was impressed by the skill of the boy. So he called Tansen ‘talented’.

2. Why did Akbar ask Tansen to join his court?
Ans: Tansen learnt music from Swami Haridas for eleven years. He himself be­came a famous singer. Sometimes he sang before Emperor Akbar. Akbar was so impressed that he asked Tansen to join his court in 1556.

3. How do we know that Akbar was fond of Tansen? Give two reasons.
Ans: Tansen became the favourite of the Emperor. Akbar used to visit Tansen’s house to hear him practise music. He asked Tansen to sing whenever he had the mood. He also gave Tansen many presents.                                                                                        .

4.What did the other courtiers feel about Tansen?
Ans: Tansen’s popularity made other courtiers jealous of him. They made up their mind to ruin Tansen somehow.

5. (i) What happens if Raga Deepak is sting properly?
(ii) Why did Tansen’s enemies want him to sing the Raga?
Ans: (i) If Raga Deepak was sung properly, the air became so hot that the singer was burnt to ashes.
(ii) The courtiers who were Tansen’s enemies, wanted the singer to sing Raga Deepak and die of heat.

6.Why did Tansen agree to sing Raga Deepak?
Ans: Tansen agreed to sing Raga Deepak because he dared not disobey the Em­peror. Secondly, he wanted to prove his ability.

7.(i) What steps did he take to save himself?
(ii) Did his plan work? How?
Ans: (i) Tansen was a little worried as well as afraid. He took two steps for his safety. He requested the king to give him some time. Next, he taught his daughter and her friend to sing Raga Megh.
(ii)Yes, Tansen’s plan worked. His singing made the environment hot. Flames shot up and lighted the lamps. Just then, the two girls started singing Raga Megh. The rains came down suddenly and saved Tansen’s life.

I. SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1.What was Tansen famous for?
Ans: Tansen was famous for his singing talent. He was the greatest musician India has ever produced.

2. It is said that Tansen was a naughty child. What prank did he play?
Ans: Tansen, as a child, used to play in the forest. He learnt to copy the calls of birds and animals. Once he frightened Swami Haridas and his pupils by producing the roar of a tiger.

3.What do you know about Tansen’s life before he joined Akbar’s court?
Ans: Tansen was the son of Mukandan Misra and his wife. The family lived near Gwalior. His talent was spotted by Swami Haridas. He lived with his guru for eleven years. He joined Mohammad Ghaus who took him to the court of Rani Mrignaini. Tansen married Hussaini. He impressed Emperor Akbar with music.

4. How did the jealous courtiers of Akbar plan to ruin Tansen?
Ans: Shaukat Mian had a bright idea. The courtiers made Tansen sing Raga Deepak. If the Raga was sung properly, it made the air hot and even burnt the singer to ashes.

5. Why was Tansen afraid of singing Raga Deepak?
Ans: Tansen could sing the Raga all right. But his fear was that the song would give off a lot of heat. It would set the lamps alight and would also burn him to ashes.             ,

II.LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1. What do you know about Tansen and his family? What quality was he gifted with?
Ans: Tansen is remembered as the greatest musician of India. His father was also a singer. The family lived in Gwalior. He learnt to copy the calls of birds and animals. Swami Haridas noticed his talent and taught him music for eleven years. He became a great favourite of Emperor Akbar. Some of the jealous courtiers made a vain attempt to ruin Tansen.

2. How did the jealous courtiers plan to harm Tansen? How did the great musician save his honour as well as official position?
Ans: Tansen was a talented musician. He came to the notice of Emperor Akbar. Tansen was honoured with a place in Akbar’s court. The jealous courtiers decided to ruin him. They demanded that Tansen should sing Raga Deepak. They knew that the Raga would bum him to ashes. However. Tansen accepted the challenge. He trained two girls to sing Raga Megh to bring rain and put out the fire. Tansen was thus saved wisely.

1. What made Ray think the visitor was not really a shopper?
Ans: Ray was deaf and dumb, but a good judge of men. His old wise eyes told him that the new visitors to his shop at that late hour, was not a shopper or customer. There was no friendliness in his eyes.

2. Why do you think he had come to the shop?
Ans: The visitor had not come to the shop to buy anything. Perhaps his intention was to loot the owner of his cash. He was in dire need of money.

3. How did Ray communicate with him?
Ans: Ray could neither speak nor hear. So he communicated with his customer by writing his message on a notepad. The visitor also wrote his reply on paper.

4. What do you think the man said to his friend who waited at the door?
Ans: The older man pointed to his ears and shook his head from side to side. Thus he conveyed to his younger companion that the shop owner could neither hear ‘ nor speak.

5. Ray was not a pawnbroker. Why then did he lend money to people in exchange for their old watches and clocks?
Ans: Ray was not a pawnbroker, a person who lends money on security of some item. He did not lend money on interest. He was, however, kind and helpful. He could n’t say ‘No’ to the needy people.

6. “The watch was nothing special and yet had great powers.” In what sense did it have ‘great powers’?
Ans: The watch was just ordinary. But it had the power to pull a person out of a bad situation. The older man got the money he needed without hurting Ray. The generous shopkeeper also escaped physical injury. In this sense the watch had great powers.

7. Do you think the man would ever come back to pick up the watch?
Ans:No, it is very unlikely that the older man would ever come back to pick up his watch. He had, after all, got a price higher than the watch was worth for.

8. When did “the unfriendly face” of the visitor turn truly friendly?
Ans: The unfriendly face of the visitor turned friendly when he got a fifty dollar note for his ordinary watch. He felt obliged and happy.

I. SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1. Who was Ray? What was his handicap?
Ans: Ray was the owner of an old-clock shop. He was deaf and dumb. He communicated with his customers by writing on a notepad.

2. Who were the two last-minute shoppers to Ray’s shop?
Ans: The two persons came to Ray’s shop just before the shop closed. One was young, the older one was nearly fifty. They had an evil plan to rob Ray of his cash.

3. What was the problem of the two shoppers? What were they going to try?
Ans: The two persons visiting Ray’s shop were in dire need of money. They were ready to take away Ray’s cash by force.

4. How did Ray tackle the evil-minded shoppers?
Ans: Ray hid his growing fear. He noticed that the older man was unfriendly and he carried a gun. But he kept cool. He paid fifty dollars in exchange for an old watch. This pleased the man. He said ‘Merry Christmas’ to Ray before he walked out of the shop.

5. What message did the old clocks spread as they chimed ‘Merry Christmas’ together?
Ans: The old-clocks and timepieces in Ray’s shop chimed all together. They spread ‘the message of peace on earth and goodwill towards all’.

II.LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1. Sketch the character of Ray in about 80 words. What qualities of Ray do you admire most?
Ans: Ray was an old and deaf owner of an old clock-shop. He repaired and sold old clocks. He communicated with his customers using pen and paper. But he was wise with long experience. Anger boiled within him when he noticed a gun in the man’s pocket. But he remained cool. He was generous and helpful also. He overpaid his visitors in need. He sent away the unfriendly visitors quite happy.

2. How did the old clock give a timeless message through Ray?
Ans:Ray was an old and deaf dealer in old clocks. He also used to pay to the needy customers against the security of their old clocks. Two visitors came to his shop when he was going to pull the shutters down. He doubted their intentions. But he kept his cool. He offered them fifty dollars for an old clock. He did so as a gesture of goodwill and peace. The timepiece rang out a musical message filled with hope. All the three persons who stood in the shop heard the timeless message of peace on earth and goodwill towards all.

NCERT Solutions for Class 6th English Chapter 3 The Shepherd’s Treasure

1. The shepherd had n’t been to school because
(i)he was very poor.
(ii)there were very few schools in those days.
(iii)he wasn’t interested in studies.
Choose the right answer.
Ans: (ii) There were very few schools in those days.

2.Who visited the shepherd one day. and why?
Ans:  The shepherd soon became famous for his wisdom and friendly nature. The king of Iran heard about him and visited him. He was riding a mule and dressed like a shepherd.

3.Why did the other governors grow jealous of the shepherd?
Ans: The common shepherd was appointed the governor of a small district. He was loved and honoured by the people. His fame spread far and wide. So the governors of other provinces grew jealous of him.

4.Why was the new governor called to the palace?
Ans: The jealous governors poisoned the king’s ears against the new shepherd-governor. They reported that the new governor was dishonest, and he always carried his ill-gotten treasure in an iron chest. So the king called him to the palace to see that treasure.

5. Why was everyone delighted to see the iron chest on the camel’s back?
Ans: Those who were present in the palace, thought that the iron-box contained valuables. If their report proved true, the king would dismiss the shepherd. So they were delighted. They waited anxiously to see the contents of the box.

6. (i) What did the iron chest contain?
(ii)Why did the shepherd always carry it?
(iii)Is it an example of the shepherd’s humility or wisdom or both?
Ans: (i) The iron chest contained only an old blanket.
(ii)The shepherd always carried his blanket in the box because it was his oldest and time-tested friend. It would protect him in case the king took away his post and power.
(iii)Yes, it is an example of the shepherd’s humility as well as wisdom.

7. How did the king reward the new governor?
Ans:The king was highly pleased with the new governor’s humility and honesty. He rewarded him with a promotion. He made him the governor of a much bigger province the same day.

I.SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1. What were the notable qualities of the shepherd?
Ans: The shepherd was poor and uneducated. But he was wise and friendly. He lived in a cave. ‘

2.What led the king of Iran to the cave of the shepherd?
Ans: The stories of the wisdom and friendly nature of the shepherd led the king of Iran to his cave.

3. What impressed the king when he spent a night in the cave?
Ans: The king was greatly impressed by the shepherd’s hospitality and wise talks.

4. The king rewarded the shepherd twice. How and why?
Ans: The king was greatly pleased with the shepherd’s gentleness and intelligence. So he appointed him the governor of a small district. Later on, the king rewarded the shepherd for his honesty, humility and wisdom. He made the shepherd the governor of a much bigger district.

5.Why did the shepherd always carry his old blanket with him?
Ans: The old blanket was the shepherd’s oldest and the best friend. It could protect him when the king wished to take away his position, power and cloaks.

6.What is the moral/message of the story?
Ans: The moral of the story is that honesty, humility and wisdom are great virtues. These are recognised and rewarded by everybody sooner or later.

II.LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1. Give a character sketch of the shepherd. What qualities pleased the king?
Ans: The poor shepherd lived in a village in Iran. He was illiterate. But he was wise, and noble. He helped the people in trouble. He solved their problems with courage and common sense. The king was impressed by the shepherd’s hospitality and gentleness. He appointed the humble shepherd the governor of a district.The new governor always carried an iron-box. The jealous governors thought that there was gold inside the chest. The king examined the box and found only an old blanket in it.

2. How did the other governors try to humiliate the new governor (the shepherd)?
Ans: The shepherd was poor but humble, honest and hospitable. The king was pleased with the shepherd’s goodness and wisdom. His wisdom, common sense and above all, honesty were his real wealth. But wherever he went, he carried with him an iron chest. The envious governors poisoned the king’s ears against him. The king agreed to see for himself the jewels in the iron-box. But he found only an old and ordinary blanket. That was his only treasure. This inci­dent enhanced the shepherd’s dignity. The other governors felt embarrassed.

1. Why did the farmer bring a baby mongoose into the house?
Ans: The farmer had a small son. He wanted to have a pet to give company to his child. So he brought home a baby mongoose to play with the child.

2. Why didn’t the farmer’s wife want to leave the baby alone with the mongoose?
Ans:The farmer’s wife did not trust even her pet mongoose. She did n’t want to leave her son alone with an animal.

3. What was the farmer’s comment on his wife’s fears?
Ans: The farmer understood why his wife was afraid of leaving the baby alone with the mongoose. Therefore, he tried to remove her fear. He said that the mongoose was a friendly animal, as sweet and gentle as their own baby.

4. Why did the farmer’s wife strike the mongoose with her basket?
Ans: The farmer’s wife returned home with a heavy basket. She noticed blood on the face and paws of the mongoose. She had no doubt that the mongoose had killed her son. So in anger she hit the animal with the basket. The poor mongoose died on the spot.

5. Did she repent her hasty action? How does she show her repentance?
Ans: The farmer’s wife saw the snake tom into pieces. Her own son was safely asleep. She realised her mistake. She felt very sorry. She touched the mongoose and cried. She saw the painful result of her hasty action.

I.SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1.Why did the farmer think of having a pet?
Ans: The farmer loved his only son very much. He wanted the boy to have a companion when he grew up. So he decided to bring home a pet to give his son company.

2.What is in general, the relationship between a mongoose and a snake?
Ans: The two are sworn enemies.

3 .How did the mongoose prove his friendly nature?
Ans: The mongoose saved the life of the farmer’s son from a deadly cobra. He killed the snake. He sacrificed his life. He was killed by the farmer’s wife due to misunderstanding.

4.What was customary for the mongoose?
Ans: The mongoose used to ran to the door to welcome the farmer’s wife when she returned home. He sat outside the house waiting for her. It was customary.

5.What made the farmer’s wife blind with rage?
Ans: The sight of blood on the face and paws of the mongoose made the farmer’s wife mad with anger. She took for granted that the mongoose had killed her son.        .

6.What did the farmer’s wife regret?
Ans: She regretted and repented her hasty action. But it was all too late.

II.LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1. How did the mongoose oblige its master? What was the reward of his ser­vice?
Ans: A farmer lived in a village with his wife and a small son. In order to give company to the child, the farmer brought with him a small mongoose. It became a good friend of the infant. One day the mother went to the market. The child was left in the company of the mongoose. A snake was going to bite the baby. But the mongoose killed it. The mother after she came back home saw blood on the animal’s face. In anger she killed the mongoose. Soon after she discovered how the mongoose had saved the child’s life. She wept bitterly.

2. What made the farmer’s wife first kill the mongoose and then repent soon after?
Ans:  The farmer’s wife had gone to the market. She left the baby to the care of her pet, the friendly mongoose. She came back home and saw blood on the face of the pet. Blind with anger, she killed the mongoose. Soon she discovered that . her baby was all right: the mongoose had killed a snake. And thus saved the baby’s life. She repented and wept. But it was too late.

1. How did the two baby-birds get separated?
Ans: The two baby birds lived in a tall tree with their mother. One day a big storm blew. The tree came down. The mother bird was killed. The strong wind blew the two chicks away to the other side of the forest at a little distance from each other. Thus they got separated from each other.

2.Where did each of them find a home?
Ans: One of the young birds came down near a cave. A gang of robbers lived there. The other bird landed outside the ashram of a rishi at a little distance.

3.What did the first bird say to the stranger?
Ans: The first bird saw the stranger (the King). He called the robbers to hurry up and rob the man of his jewels and his horse. Indirectly he asked the stranger to leave the place at once.

4. What did the second bird say to him?
Ans: The second bird welcomed the king to the ashram. He requested the stranger to drink water, take rest and make himself comfortable. He added that his brother lived in the company of robbers, so he talked like them.

5.’ How did the rishiexplain the different ways in which the two birds behaved?
Ans: The king told the rishi about the different behaviour of the two birds. The rishi explained that the first bird repeated the words of the robbers. The second bird repeated what he had always heard at the ashram. Their different ways were the results of their company.

6. Which one of the following sums up the story best?
(i) A bird in hand is worth two in the bush.
(ii)One is known by the company one keeps.
(iii)A friend in need is a friend indeed.
Ans: (ii) One is known by the company one keeps.

I.SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1.How did different company affect the character and behaviour of the two birds?
Ans: The two birds were brothers. But they got separated when a storm blew. One came down near a cave where robbers lived. The other landed outside a rishis ashram. The former learnt the language of the robbers. The latter learnt to welcome the strangers sweetly. Thus, their company shaped their behaviour.

2.What amazed the king as he stood near the cave?
Ans: The king heard a big brown bird on the tree, calling out to the robbers to come and loot the stranger.

3.How did the other bird greet the king?
Ans: The other bird welcomed the king to the ashram. Gently he requested the king to make himself comfortable in the ashram.

II.LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

1. Narrate the tale of two birds in your own words.
Ans: Once there lived a mother bird in a forest. She had two new-born chicks. One day a storm came with thunder and lightning. The mother bird was killed. But the baby birds were blown away to the other end of the forest. One lived in the company of robbers. The other stayed with a rishi. One day a king heard them speak. The one asked the robbers to loot and kill the king. The other noble bird welcomed him sweetly in the ashram. They behaved differently because of the company they kept.

2. How did the king reach the rishi’s ashram? Why did the two birds behave with the king differently?
Ans: The king came to the forest to hunt a deer. He rode after the game and lost his way. Tired, he stood near a cave. One bird informed the robbers to rob the traveller of his jewels and his horse. The king sensed danger and rode away. Soon he came to a rishi’s ashram. He sat down in a tree’s shade. He was amazed to hear another bird’s voice. It requested him to enter the ashram and rest. The two birds were real brothers, but one became crook in the company of robbers. The other became gentle in the company of the rishi. The holy man told the king that one’s good or bad company makes one noble or wicked.