Chapters

A Letter to God - G.L.FUENTES

Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom -
NELSON ROLIHLAHLA MANDELA
Two Stories about Flying
His First Flight - LIAM O’ FLAHERTY
Black Aeroplane - FREDERICK FORSYTH
From the Diary of Anne Frank - ANNE FRANK
 Chapters
Glimpses of India
A Baker from Goa - LUCIO RODRIGUES
Coorg - LOKESH ABROL
Tea from Assam - ARUP KUMAR DATTA
Mijbil the Otter - GAVIN MAXWELL
Madam Rides the Bus - VALLIKKANNAN
The Sermon at Benares
The Proposal - ANTON CHEKOV
A Letter To God
Summary

Lencho was a hardworking farmer who was very simple and honest. He had a
field of ripe corn dotted with the flowers. He lived in the house — the only one
in the entire valley — sat on the crest of a low hill. He knew his fields
intimately and hoped for a downpour or at least a shower. During the meal, big
drops of rain began to fall. He was happy to see mountain of clouds.

‘‘These aren’t raindrops falling from the sky, they are new coins. The big drops
are ten cent pieces and the little ones are fives.’’

But suddenly strong wind began to blow with very large hailstones. They
resembled new silver coins.
Summary

It rained for an hour and the field was white as if covered with salt. It
left nothing- not a leaf remained on the trees. He told his sons that a
plague of locusts would have left more than this. Lencho’s soul was filled
with sadness.

Lencho had an unwavering faith on God so he decided to seek help from

him and the following Sunday, at daybreak he wrote a letter to God
demanding 100 pesos to sow his field again and to live until the crops
come.
Summary
When the postman read the letter addressing to God he could not stop
himself from laughing. But the post master who was a fat, amiable man
decided to help Lencho in order not to shake Lencho’s faith. He collected
70 pesos from his employees (more than goodwill), friends as an act of
charity and he himself gave part of his salary, signing the letter as God.

The next Sunday Lencho came to collect the money. But he was
disappointed to find only 70 pesos. He was angry and wrote a letter
again with much wrinkling of his brow( because of the efforts he had to
make) demanding the rest of the money. He also wrote that God should
not send the money through the mail because he believed that the post
office employees were a bunch of crooks.
Theme
 The central theme of the story revolves around unwavering faith.
Lencho, the main character, believes so strongly in God's
intervention that he writes a literal letter to God, expecting direct
divine assistance after his crops are destroyed by a hailstorm.

 The story highlights the challenging life of a peasant farmer who

depends entirely on his harvest for survival. Lencho's desperation
after losing his crops demonstrates the unreliable existence of
rural agricultural workers.
Conflict
Conflict between Human and Nature
Lencho, a hardworking farmer, depends entirely on nature for his survival.

Initially, he is hopeful when it starts raining, believing it will nourish his crops.

However, nature turns destructive as a hailstorm ruins his entire harvest, leaving
him in despair.

This highlights the unpredictability of nature and the struggles of farmers who
are at its mercy.
Conflict
Conflict between Human and Human
The post office employees collect money to help Lencho after reading his
letter to God.

However, Lencho, instead of appreciating their kindness, assumes that they

have stolen part of the money.

This misunderstanding creates a conflict of perception, where human

generosity is met with mistrust.

It reflects how lack of awareness or blind faith can lead to misjudgment of

others' intentions.
Character Sketch : Lencho
Lencho, the protagonist of A Letter to God, is a hardworking farmer, described as
“an ox of a man” due to his dedication to farming. He is optimistic, believing that
timely rain will ensure a good harvest. However, when a hailstorm destroys his
crops, his unwavering faith in God leads him to write a letter requesting 100
pesos. His naive belief in divine help reflects his blind faith, as he trusts God
completely but doubts humans. When he receives only 70 pesos, he assumes the
post office employees stole the rest, blaming people instead of questioning
reality. His emotional and innocent nature highlights his deep faith, making him
both admirable and pitiable as a character.
Character Sketch : Postmaster

The postmaster is a kind and generous man who arranges money for Lencho
after reading his letter to God. At first, he is amused by Lencho’s faith but soon
admires his unwavering trust. His compassionate nature pushes him to protect
Lencho’s belief, ensuring he receives help. He is selfless, collecting funds secretly
without expecting recognition. However, he is ironically misjudged, as Lencho
assumes he and his staff stole part of the money. Despite this misunderstanding,
the postmaster remains a symbol of human goodness, demonstrating that true
kindness does not seek gratitude or validation. His actions highlight the contrast
between faith in divinity and the unrecognized generosity of fellow humans.
Comparison of raindrops

Lencho was expecting raindrops as they would pave the way

for healthy harvest. Rain-fed harvest would bring financial gain
for him in the market. Therefore, Lencho thought that
raindrops are like ‘new coins.’ The big drops were ten cent
pieces and the little ones were fives. Further the situation
worsened as the hailstones began to fall. The boys ran out to
collect those frozen pearls.
Ironical Ending

The irony in the ending of the story was that Lencho believed
his letter had been answered by God. However, the reality was
different as it was the postmaster who provided the money.
Lencho's strong faith in God contrasted with the actual
situation where a human being helped him.
Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom
 ABOUT THE AUTHOR: NELSON MANDELA

There was a time when the black He is one of the great moral and
people of South Africa were political leaders of our time. He can
deprived of their rights. At such a be regarded as an international
painful time, Nelson Mandela was hero whose life long dedication to
able to be the first Black President fight against the racial oppression
of South Africa. He served as the in South Africa won him the Nobel
president of South Africa from Peace Prize and the presidency of
1994 to 1999. his country.
 Autobiography- a self-written
account of a person’s life.

IMPORTANT TERMS Apartheid- ‘Apartheid’ is a political

system that separates people
according to their race. During
apartheid, those inhabitants of South
Africa who were not white had their
rights restricted and were not allowed
the same freedoms as their white
counterparts.
Theme
Resilience: Mandela's journey illustrates the theme of resilience as he
suffered decades of imprisonment and struggle in his fight against
apartheid.

Justice and Equality: Mandela's unwavering commitment to justice and

equality for all is also reflected, without thinking of race or background.

Forgiveness : Mandela's ability to forgive his oppressors after years of

imprisonment reflects the theme of forgiveness.
Theme
Leadership: Mandela's exemplary leadership qualities, including courage,
determination, and the ability to inspire others is also reflected. Freedom:
Mandela's life story shows the fight for freedom, not just for himself but
for his people and his nation.
The inauguration
 Date and Significance: The inauguration took place on 10th May, a
bright and clear day, marking the installation of South Africa’s first
democratic, non-racial government. Mandela was overwhelmed with a
sense of history

 Location: The ceremonies were held at the Union Buildings in Pretoria,

a site that historically represented white supremacy.

 Attendees: International dignitaries and world leaders were present,

making it the largest gathering of international leaders on South African
soil.
Key Moments of the Ceremony
 Swearing-In:
Mr. de Klerk was sworn in as the second deputy president.
Thabo Mbeki was sworn in as the first deputy president.
Nelson Mandela pledged to obey and uphold the Constitution as he was sworn in
as president.

 Mandela’s Speech:
Emphasized the transformation from oppression to democracy.
Highlighted the importance of justice, peace, and human dignity.
Expressed gratitude to international guests and recognized the common victory
for humanity.
Display of Military Power
 During Mandela's inauguration, South African jets presented the nation's
military might, symbolizing the military's loyalty to democracy.

 The highest-ranking military generals saluted him, a significant gesture

considering that they could have once arrested him.

 The ceremony concluded with the playing of two national anthems. The
white population sang the song, "Nkosi Sikelel-iAfrica'," while the black
population sang, "Die Stem," signifying the culmination of the event.
Historical Context
 Apartheid System:
Described as one of the harshest and most inhumane systems, established
to dominate dark-skinned people.
It was finally overturned, replaced by a system recognizing the rights and
freedoms of all people.

 Struggle for Freedom:

The new democratic system was achieved through the sacrifices of
thousands of people.
Mandela acknowledged the contributions of notable figures in the struggle,
such as Oliver Tambo and Walter Sisulu.
Africa’s true wealth
 On this significant day, Mandela expressed deep remorse for the countless
individuals who had lost their lives in the struggle against discrimination.

 He fondly remembered exceptional freedom fighters such as Oliver Tambo,

Walter Sisulu, Chief Luthuli, Yusuf Dadoo, and many others. These
remarkable individuals possessed extraordinary bravery, wisdom, and
generosity, dedicating their lives to the cause of freedom.

 Mandela believed that the true wealth of the nation resided in its people.

 Mandela said, “I was simply the some of all those African patriots who had
one before me”.
Reflections on Leadership and Courage
 Role Models:
Mandela reflected on the extraordinary courage, wisdom, and generosity of
leaders who fought against apartheid.

 Personal Growth:
Learned the meaning of courage from comrades who risked and gave their
lives for freedom. Courage is defined as the triumph over fear, not the
absence of fear.

People should love others irrespective of colour or religion, as love is a

natural goodness that cannot be forced. Mandela saw a glimmer of humanity
in one of the guards (when he was in prison) which was enough to reassure
him and keep him going.
Personal Journey
 Early Life:
Mandela’s initial understanding of freedom was limited to the simple,
unrestricted life of his boyhood. As he grew older, he realized that his freedom
and that of his people were severely restricted.

 Activism:
Joined the African National Congress (ANC) and dedicated his life to the struggle
for the freedom of his people.
His personal transformation from a law-abiding attorney to a revolutionary
leader was driven by the desire for freedom and dignity for all people.
Twin obligation
 Mandela talked about twin obligations:

 The first one is to his family- parents, wife, and children.

 The second obligation is to his people- his community and his country. (In a
civil and humane society, everyone fulfils his duties as per his inclination
and interest.)

 In South Africa, it was difficult to fulfil both of those obligations.

What is freedom?
 Mandela's concept of freedom evolved over time. As a child, it meant running
in fields, swimming in the clear stream, roasting mealies under the stars etc.

 As a student, he wanted transitory freedom of being able to stay out night,

read and move freely.

 Growing older, he sought freedom for his family too. However, he soon
realized this personal freedom was an illusion.

 Witnessing the lack of freedom among his fellow brothers and sisters who
resembled him, he joined the African National Congress (ANC).
Liberation of the oppressor
 Mandela emphasizes the necessity to liberate the oppressor as much as the
oppressed.

 A person who restricts another's freedom becomes a prisoner of hatred.

This imprisonment is characterized by prejudice and narrow-mindedness.

 Mandela asserts that true freedom is not achieved when one takes away
someone else's freedom.
 Freedom is indivisible
 Mandela thought that freedom is like a whole package and can't be
split into pieces. He said real freedom covers everything in life – like
politics, how we live together, money stuff, and our culture. If someone
can't speak freely about politics, it might affect how they can hang out
with others or make a living. So, Mandela believed that freedom is all
connected, and you need all parts of it to have true freedom.
Two stories about Flying
 His First Flight

This is a story about the first flight of a baby seagull. His brothers and sisters
have learnt to fly but he is afraid to let go of the ledge on which he was born.
This story is a true parable about overcoming fears in life. “The journey of a
thousand miles begins with a step”- the story justifies this statement. His first
flight turns into a delight and his family rejoices with him.
 Summary
This story revolves around a young seagull hesitant to fly. He remained
alone on his ledge and his siblings (two brother and one sister) had
already flown away.

He was pessimistic initially and felt certain that his wings would never
support him.

Parents punished him by leaving him alone on a ledge without food for
24 hours.
 Summary
The young seagull is left in isolation the next day, feeling hungry and seeking
attention from his family. His mother, preparing to eat a fish, notices her starving
son's cries.

The mother intervenes and places bait in front of the young seagull. Hungry, he
finally dives for a scrap of fish as the sight of the food maddened him.

Overcoming his fear, the young seagull takes his first flight, surprising himself and
his family. His family celebrates his victory by cheering and dancing around him.

The young seagull gains confidence and attempts to float in the sea, conquering
his fear. He realizes that fear is a mindset and that courage can lead to great
accomplishments.
 THEME
Conquering Fear: The young seagull overcomes his fear of heights and flying.

Perseverance: Despite setbacks, the seagull keeps trying until he takes flight.

Hunger as Motivation: Hunger serves as a catalyst for the seagull's first attempt.

Unexpected Success: The seagull discovers his ability to fly in a surprising way.

Learning from Mistakes: The story implies trial and error are part of the learning
process.
 Character Sketch: Young Seagull
The young seagull is initially fearful and insecure, hesitant to take flight
despite having strong wings. He lacks confidence and watches his siblings
soar while he remains on the ledge. His dependence on his parents for
food prevents him from making an effort to fly. However, hunger
becomes a powerful motivator, pushing him to take action. In a moment
of desperation, he instinctively overcomes his fear and takes his first
flight. As he glides through the air, he feels thrilled and confident,
realizing the joy of flying. With this newfound courage, he becomes
independent, learning to dive and survive on his own. His journey
symbolizes growth, showing that fear can be conquered through courage
and self-belief.
 Character Sketch : Mother

The mother seagull plays a crucial role in helping her young one overcome his
fear of flying. She is observant and patient, carefully watching his struggles.
Instead of forcing him, she strategically uses hunger as a tool to push him out of
his comfort zone. She is clever and deceptive yet caring, as she tempts him with
food but ensures he takes the leap of faith. Her tough love and encouragement
make her a catalyst for his growth, ultimately teaching him independence. She
symbolizes wisdom, guidance, and the power of a mother’s instinct in shaping
her child’s future.
 The Black Aeroplane

The story, ‘The Black Aeroplane’ explores the theme of a kind, supernatural
agency which helped the narrator while he was in distress in mid air. The
narrator of the old Dakota was caught in storm clouds. He lost his contact with
the control room. In this troubling situation, his fuel was also running out. He
lost all hope but suddenly a strange black plane appeared out of nowhere. The
pilot of the black place asked the writer to follow him. The writer landed safely.
 Summary
The narrator was flying his old Dakota DS088 over France back to England at
one thirty in the morning.

‘I should call Paris Control soon,’ he thought to ask for directions for his smooth
landing. He checked the map and the compass, switched over to his second
and last fuel tank, and turned the Dakota twelve degrees west towards
England.

Pilot was flying with the dreams of having breakfast in the morning and
spending holidays with his family.
 Summary
He saw the huge storm clouds that looked like black mountains standing in
front of him across the sky. He did not return to Paris because he wanted to get
home.

Compass, radio and other instruments were dead. The fuel tanks didn’t have
enough fuel.

He saw a black plane without lights on wings, flying near his plane. Its pilot
waved and signalled him to follow him. The author did not have much choice
but to follow him.
 Summary

He followed him like an obedient child and emerged from the dark storm.

The pilot landed and walked to the control room to thank the other pilot.

To his surprise, the woman in the control centre informed that no other
aeroplanes were visible on the radar.
 Mysterious ending
The pilot in the black aeroplane was an illusion created by the narrator’s own
mind. The Black Aeroplane was nothing but a manifestation of the narrator’s
own knowledge and understanding of averting the disaster of an impending
crash.

The supernatural twist adds an element of suspense and leaves the reader
questioning whether the mysterious pilot was real or a figment of the
narrator’s imagination. The ending suggests themes of faith, destiny, and
unexplained miracles, making the story intriguing. It also highlights the idea
that sometimes, help comes in the most unexpected ways, reinforcing a sense
of mystery and wonder. The open-ended conclusion allows readers to interpret
the story in their own way.
 Theme
Hope and Courage – Despite being trapped in a storm, the pilot remains
determined, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and optimism.

Mystery and Supernatural Elements – The appearance of the black

aeroplane and its unknown pilot adds an element of suspense and
intrigue.

Faith and Miracles – The protagonist receives unexpected help in a

desperate situation, suggesting divine intervention or an unexplained
miracle.
 Character Sketch
The pilot in The Black Aeroplane is a determined and hopeful individual,
initially focused on reaching his family. He starts his journey confidently,
believing it to be an easy flight, but is soon caught in an unexpected storm.
Despite the danger, he shows courage and resilience, trying to navigate
through the crisis. A mysterious black aeroplane appears, guiding him to
safety, but later, he learns that no such plane was recorded. This experience
makes him reflective, as he realizes the journey was more than just reaching
his destination—it was about facing challenges, trusting the unknown, and
growing through adversity.
From the Diary of Anne Frank
 Background

Anneliese Marie ‘Anne’ Frank (12 June 1929 – February/March 1945) was a
German – born Jewish girl who wrote while in hiding with her family and four
friends in Amsterdam during the German occupation of the Netherlands in
World War II.

This chapter is an excerpt from the diary ‘The Diary of Young Girl’ written by
Anne Frank which was given for her thirteenth birthday. It chronicles (records)
the events of her life from 12 June 1942 until its final entry of 1 August 1944.
 Background
It was eventually translated from its original Dutch into many languages and
became one of the world’s most widely read books. There have also been
several films, television and theatrical productions, and even an opera, based
on the diary. Described as the work of a mature and insightful mind, the diary
provides an intimate examination of daily life under Nazi occupation. Anne
Frank has become one of the most renowned and discussed of the Holocaust
victims.
 Summary
Anne had no real friends.

Anne thought that it was an odd experience for someone like her to keep a
diary because according to her nobody will be interested in knowing the
thought process (musings) of a thirteen-year-old schoolgirl.

She believed that “Paper has more patience than people.”

She provided a brief sketch of her life: loving parents and a sixteen years old
elder sister, Margot. In 1941, Anne’s Grandma fell ill and died in January 1942.
Anne expressed that only she herself knew how much she missed her
grandmother. She still loved her even after her death.
 Summary
She decided to name her diary ‘Kitty’ and started with writing her
background, to make it easier to understand for anyone who reads
it later.

She mentioned about her school days that she started learning at the
Montessori nursery school where Mrs. Kuperus, the headmistress was her
teacher.
 The classroom scene
In the chapter, the entry date was Saturday, 20 June 1942, where she described
that the entire class was quaking in its boots due to the upcoming result. The
teachers were to decide who would move up to the next class and who would
not.

Half of the class made bets. Her friends- C.N and Jacques staked their entire
holiday savings on their bets on whether they would pass or fail.

She's uncertain only about math. The author thinks a quarter of the class might
fail as there were so many dummies but she further added that teachers were
the most unpredictable creatures on earth.
 Anne’s punishment

Mr. Keesing (the old fogey who taught Maths) punished Anne for talking in
class and gave her extra homework. She wrote essays on 'A Chatterbox' and ‘An
Incorrigible Chatterbox’.

She argued that “talking is a student’s trait” and she would do her best to keep
it under control. She had inherited it from her mother.

Anne continued talking in class, and as a further punishment, Mr. Keesing

asked her to write an essay on an unusual title: "Quack, Quack, Quack.” said
Mistress Chatterbox.
 The unusual poem
Anne wrote a satirical poem about a mother duck and father swan, which Mr.
Keesing found amusing and shared with the class.

It was about a mother duck and a father swan with three baby ducklings who
were bitten to death by the father because they quacked too much.

The teacher liked her poem so much that he decided not to punish her anymore.
 Paper has more patience than people
Anne Frank did not have any real friends.

Anne believed that people feel bored and become impatient when we talk about
our problems. On the other hand, we can confide our true thoughts and feelings
while writing a diary.

We can share our feelings, both sad and happy. It never gets bored or stops us to
write. It behaves like a true friend who keeps our secret and listens to us patiently.
So, she thinks that paper has more patience than people.

(This incident also proves that writing a diary can be a way to vent out anxiety. This
helps to express one's thoughts and feelings providing a sense of emotional release
and relief, allowing individuals to process and manage their emotions more
effectively.)
 Mr. Keesing as a teacher

Mr. Keesing was a strict but kind teacher. He punished Anne for
her talkative behaviour by making her write essays but he never
took offense to the words she wrote. Moreover, he always took
them in good humour and even appreciated some of her
arguments written in the essay.
 Character Sketch: Anne Frank
Anne Frank was an intelligent and quick-witted girl who displayed remarkable
creativity, especially in expressing herself through writing. Despite her
challenging circumstances, she remained compassionate and sensitive towards
others. She was mature beyond her years, understanding complex emotions
and handling situations with wisdom. However, deep inside, Anne felt lonely
and longed for a true friend. She found solace in her diary, Kitty, where she
poured out her thoughts and feelings. She had a great sense of humour, using it
to lighten tense moments. Though often scolded for being talkative, her charm
and wit allowed her to navigate situations skillfully, making her an
unforgettable and inspiring personality.
Glimpses of India
 A baker from Goa
This is a pen-portrait of a traditional Goan village baker who still has an
important place in his society.
 A baker from Goa
The chapter begins with a nostalgic tone where elders of Goa think fondly of
the past about good old Portuguese days.
Portuguese and their famous
loaves of bread

Although the eaters of loaves might have vanished, the bakers persist. The
traditional furnaces and the rhythmic sound of bamboo can still be
experienced.

They are known as "Pader.” In old Portuguese times, Goans enjoyed loaves of
bread, a tradition that still continues.
 A baker from Goa
Descendants of these bakers continue the family business.

The baker used to be a friend and guide, arriving twice daily. The sound of the
bamboo served as a morning alarm.

The baker's bamboo created a distinctive “jhang, jhang” sound, signalling his
arrival.

Residents rushed to buy bread-bangles, while maidservants (Paskine or

Bastine) purchased loaves for households.
 A baker from Goa
The baker carried a basket on his head, supported by the bamboo. Residents
eagerly awaited the baker's arrival to inspect the basket and enjoy loaves with
hot tea.

Sweet bread, called "bol," was essential for marriage gifts, and other delicacies
like sandwiches, bolinhas and cakes were made from the bread.

The traditional baker wore a distinctive dress known as "kabai.” Resembling

today's half pants, it was a single-piece, long frock reaching down to the knees.
 A baker from Goa
Baking was a lucrative profession in the past. The bakers and their families
displayed prosperity through their well-fed bodies, emphasizing their
contentment.

The bakers formed a happy and well-off community. Their continued presence
reflects the enduring legacy of traditional bread-making in Goa.
 Coorg
After reading the text, one can imagine what Coorg looks like and could feel like to a visitor.
The author makes use of imagery to describe the landscape and climate of Coorg. The
reader also feels more connected to the various animals that can be found in Coorg.
 Coorg
Geographical Location:

Coorg is the smallest district situated midway between Mysore and Mangalore
in Karnataka.

Described as a picturesque and heavenly place, must have drifted from the
kingdom of God. It is called the land of rolling hills.

Inhabited by strong men, beautiful women, and diverse wildlife.

 Coorg
Weather and Environment:

There are evergreen forests, spice plantations, and coffee estates.

Perfect time for visitors is between September and March when the weather is
pleasant, and the air carries the aroma of coffee.
 Coorg
People of Coorg:

Locals are believed to have Greek or Arabic ancestry, with tales suggesting
settlement by a part of Alexander's army. They are fiercely independent.
Inter-marriage with the locals led to a unique culture seen in martial traditions,
marriages, and religious rites different from the Hindu mainstream.

The long, black coat known as "kuppia" worn by Kodavus reflects Arab
influence as it is similar to the “kuffia” worn by the Arabs and the Kurds.
 Coorg
Cultural Traditions:

Coorg is known for its hospitality and tales of bravery.

The Coorg Regiment in the Indian Army is highly decorated.

General Cariappa, the first Army Chief, hailed from Coorg.

Unique to Kodavus, they are the only people in India allowed to carry firearms
without a license.
 Coorg
Wildlife and Nature:

Coorg's forests and hills contribute to the Kaveri River, home to the Mahaseer-
the largest freshwater fish.

Abundance of Kingfishers, squirrels, langurs, birds, bees, and butterflies.

Elephants enjoy bathing in the river under the care of their mahouts.
 Coorg

Adventurous activities:

A laid- back individual can become energetic with adventures like river
rafting, canoeing, rappelling, rock climbing, trekking and mountain
biking.
 Coorg
Scenic Landscape:

Brahmagiri hills offer panoramic views of Coorg.

The Nisargadhama Island, accessible via a rope bridge, spans sixty-four acres.

Bylakuppe houses Buddhist monks from India's Tibetan settlement, dressed in

vibrant robes.
 Tea from Assam
Pranjol, a youngster from Assam, is Rajvir’s classmate at school in Delhi. Pranjol’s father is
the manager of a tea-garden in Upper Assam and Pranjol has invited Rajvir to visit his
home during the summer vacation.
 Tea from Assam

Rajvir and Pranjol embarked on a journey to Assam, exploring the vibrant

landscape and rich tea culture.

They encountered a tea vendor and enjoyed a cup of hot tea.

Rajvir shared a fascinating fact - over 800 million cups of tea are consumed
daily worldwide.
 Tea from Assam
As they travelled through Assam, Rajvir admired the lush greenery, evolving
from paddy fields to vast expanses of tea bushes.

Tea gardens stretched as far as the eye could see, decorated with shade trees.

Exploring the legends, Rajvir informed Pranjol about the mysterious origins of
tea. Chinese legend involved leaves falling into boiling water accidentally,
creating the delicious flavour of tea.

Indian legend featured Buddhist monk Bodhidharma's eyelids growing into tea
plants, believed to banish sleep.
 Tea from Assam

Rajvir traced the history of tea, revealing its first consumption in China around
2700 B.C.

European introduction in the sixteenth century, primarily for medicinal

purposes and as a beverage.

The Chinese roots reflected in words like chai and chini.

 Tea from Assam
Deboarding at Mariani junction, they were driven to Dhekiabari Tea Estate.

Acres of tea bushes flanked the road, with women dili

gently plucking fresh leaves into bamboo baskets.

They met Pranjol's father at the estate during the sprouting season (May to
July), known for producing the best tea.

Rajvir impressed Pranjol's father with his knowledge of tea plantations,

expressing eagerness to learn more.
Mijbil the Otter
 Summary
Gavin Maxwell lives in a cottage in Camusfearna, in the West Highlands in
Scotland. When his dog Jonnie died, Maxwell was too sad to think of keeping a
dog again.

This is a story about Maxwell and a funny otter named Mijbil.

One day, Maxwell brings Mijbil home, and everything changes. Initially Mijbil
was aloof and indifferent.

Gradually Mijbil explores Maxwell's room and discovers how to turn on taps for
a playful bath. Maxwell teaches Mijbil to respond to his name and even takes
him for walks like a dog. He loves playing with toys for hours.
 Summary
However, when it's time for Maxwell to go back to England from Basra, taking
Mijbil on the plane becomes a challenge.

He puts Mijbil in a box as required, but Mijbil tears it open, hurting himself.

Thankfully, an air hostess helps Maxwell control Mijbil during the flight, which is
full of funny incidents.

Despite the challenges, Maxwell safely brings Mijbil home.

During their walks, people in the street make funny guesses about what kind of
animal Mijbil is. It's a lighthearted and amusing adventure.
 Theme
Human and Animal Bond – The story highlights the deep connection between
humans and animals, showing how Mijbil becomes a loving companion to the
author.

Challenges of Pet Ownership – The story also sheds light on the difficulties of
raising a wild animal as a pet, especially in a city setting.

Adaptability and Curiosity – Mijbil's playful and inquisitive nature symbolizes

how animals can adapt to new environments, just as humans must adjust to
changes in life.
 First Meeting
Beginning of a New Phase – The moment Mijbil came out of the sack, Maxwell's
life changed forever. This marked the start of his "thraldom to otters", meaning
he became completely captivated by them.

Otter Fixation – Maxwell realized that his strong attachment to otters was not
unique; many people who owned otters shared a similar fascination.

Striking Appearance – Mijbil resembled a small, medieval dragon, covered in

symmetrical, pointed scales of mud from head to tail.
 First Meeting
Soft Fur Beneath the Mud – Under the mud, his velvety chocolate-brown fur was
visible, similar to that of a mole.

Covered in Mud Armour – Mijbil was so muddy that it took Maxwell a whole
month to clean him completely.

Playful and Curious – As soon as he emerged, Mijbil shook himself, and Maxwell
expected a cloud of dust, but the mud remained stuck.

Bond Begins – Maxwell named him Mijbil, marking the beginning of a deep and
lasting companionship.
 Challenge for Maxwell
The author faced challenges transporting Mijbil to England and then to
Camusfearna.

British airlines didn’t accept animals, so, Maxwell booked a flight to Paris on
another airline and from there to London. However, there was a condition that
Mij should be packed into a box not more than eighteen inches square. Thus, he
was transported to England in that box, which was kept on the floor at
Maxwell’s feet.

The box had a lining of metal sheet. Mij didn’t find it comfortable to be there so
he tried to escape. In its attempt to escape, he hurt himself and started
bleeding. It was an appalling spectacle.
 Challenge for Maxwell
Quick actions, including removing sharp edges, helped in saving Mijbil from
unconsciousness.

Rushing to catch the flight, the author and Mijbil faced challenges but
eventually boarded the plane.
 The Air hostess

The air hostess was the very queen of her kind as she allowed the narrator to
place the otter on his lap. However, Mijbil disappeared from the box and
there were squawks and shrieks in the plane. But the airhostess helped him
to find out Mij.
 Character Sketch: Maxwell
Gavin Maxwell, the narrator of "Mijbil the Otter," is portrayed as a compassionate
and thoughtful individual who deeply cares for animals.

His concern for Mijbil’s well-being is evident in the way he patiently helps the
otter adjust to its new surroundings.

As a true lover of animals, Maxwell is thrilled to have an otter as a pet. He

dedicates himself to understanding and fulfilling Mijbil’s needs, ensuring that the
otter is comfortable and happy.

His knowledgeable nature is reflected in the way he observes and responds to

Mijbil’s behaviour, using his understanding of wildlife to create a suitable
environment for him.
 Character Sketch: Maxwell
Maxwell is also patient and understanding, allowing Mijbil to explore and adapt
at his own pace.

He does not force the otter into human ways but respects its natural instincts.

Through his actions, Maxwell proves to be a positive influence on nature,

demonstrating that humans can coexist with animals in a caring and responsible
way.

His story encourages love, respect, and kindness towards all living beings.
 Character Sketch: Mijbil
Mijbil, the otter is a unique species, belonging to Lutrogale perspicillata
Maxwelli, a previously unknown species.

At first, he appears aloof and indifferent, showing hesitation and caution in his
new surroundings.

However, as time passes, he becomes comfortable and starts displaying his

playful and mischievous nature.

He loves manipulating small objects while lying on his back, a sign of his
curiosity and intelligence.
 Character Sketch: Mijbil
He loves playing with small objects while lying on his back, a sign of his curiosity
and intelligence.

Mijbil’s gradual trust in the author is heartwarming.

Initially reserved, he soon gains confidence and forms a strong bond with
Maxwell.

He is also observant and intelligent, inventing his own games, especially with a
ping-pong ball and a damaged suitcase.

His apt learning skills are evident as he responds to his name and follows simple
commands.
 Character Sketch: Mijbil
Additionally, Mijbil exhibits compulsive habits, such as always running the full
length of a school wall on his way home.

His charming and lively personality makes him an unforgettable companion,

showing the beauty of wildlife and the deep bond between humans and
animals.
Madam rides the Bus
 Summary
The story is about an eight-year-old Tamil girl, Valliammai.

Valli was curious, lonely, and fascinated by the outside world.

She had no friends to play with, she daydreamed about bus journeys and usually
stood at the doorway, observing people boarding and deboarding buses.

She wished to experience the joy of a bus ride. It passed through her street each
hour, once going to the town and once coming back.
 Summary
Valli found out the details of the bus journey by listening carefully to the
conversation between her neighbours and regular bus users.

She discovered that the bus travelled six miles to the nearest town with a thirty
paise fare. She began saving around sixty paise for her bus ride. The trip took
forty-five minutes.

She meticulously planned to take the one o’ clock bus to the town while her
mother would be taking an afternoon nap.
 Valli’s bus ride
Valli traveled in a bus that was painted a gleaming white with green stripes
along the sides. The bus had soft, comfortable seats and large windows that
provided a good view of the outside scenery. The bus was well-maintained and
clean, making the journey pleasant for the passengers.

During her journey, Valli was delighted to see the lush green fields and the
beautiful natural scenery from the bus. She thoroughly enjoyed the ride, feeling
excited and happy. One of the most amusing moments for her was when a young
cow ran wildly in front of the bus, trying to cross the road. The driver honked the
horn loudly, making the scene even more thrilling for Valli. This experience filled
her with joy as she realized that her long-awaited dream of traveling on a bus
had finally come true.
 The bus conductor

The conductor was a jolly sort of a man and referred to Valli as 'madam' due to
her ladylike behaviour.

Despite his offers of assistance, Valli politely declined, displaying independence.

Her prompt and assertive responses to the conductor's inquiries led him to
address her as 'madam.’
 People on the bus
She met a lot of new people in the bus and got annoyed when an elderly man
called her a child.

She disliked the elderly woman for her shabby look and didn’t prefer to talk to
her. She had big holes in her ear lobes, and was wearing ugly earrings.

Apart from this, she was chewing betel and her mouth was also filled with betel
juice.
 Valli’s sensitivity
Valli is a very sensitive girl. She is different from ordinary people who are
becoming more and more callous and insensitive to the joys and sufferings of
the people around them. She grieves the accidental death of the young cow. She
was very happy while going to the city. She was happy seeing the young cow and
enjoyed her activity. When she was returning home, she found the cow dead,
she was very upset and grieved by her death. The episode reveals the fact that
life is transitory. Death is uncertain. It shows that she was very sensitive.

No doubt the values of being sensitive and sympathetic are missing from our
society. These values must be restored and inculcated in the new generation.
 Character Sketch: Valli
Valli is a smart and intelligent girl who, despite being only eight years old, shows
maturity beyond her age. She is deeply curious and adventurous, always eager
to explore the world around her.

Her biggest dream is to take a bus ride to the nearby town, and she plans for it
with great excitement.

She is also resourceful and responsible, as she carefully saves her pocket money
and plans every detail of her journey. With just thirty paise for the fare, she
manages to experience the bus ride without asking for anyone’s help.

Her independent and self-reliant nature is clear in how she takes the initiative to
travel alone, showing confidence in her actions.
 Character Sketch: Valli
Valli is also courageous and determined. She does not seek her parents'
permission but confidently makes her own decisions.

Her bold spirit and enthusiasm for adventure make her an inspiring and lovable
character.
 Valli’s journey: An alarm
Valli’s solo bus journey to town serves as a wake-up call for parents about the
curiosity and independence of young children.

Despite being just eight years old, she carefully plans and executes her trip
without informing anyone. This highlights how children, driven by curiosity, may
take risks without understanding the possible dangers.

Her journey symbolizes the need for parental guidance and supervision. While
Valli’s adventure seems harmless, it raises concerns about child safety, as she
travels alone without protection. The story reminds parents to be more aware of
their children’s thoughts and actions, encouraging open communication and
ensuring that their sense of adventure does not lead them into unsafe
situations.
The Sermon at
Benares
 Summary

Gautam Buddha was born into a North Indian royal family.

Childhood name: Siddhartha Gautama.

He was sent to study Hindu sacred scriptures at age twelve.

He married a princess and had a son, living a royal life for ten years.
 Summary
The turning point came in his life when he encountered a sick man, an aged
man, a funeral procession, and a begging monk.

He realized the impermanence and suffering in life and chose to leave royalty to
seek spiritual knowledge.

Gautama Buddha embarked on a spiritual journey and attained enlightenment

under the Bodhi tree. He began preaching his newfound wisdom.

His first sermon was delivered in the city of Benares.

 Summary
Kisa Gotami's Story

Kisa Gotami, a grieving mother was seeking medicine to cure her dead son.

A man directed her to Lord Buddha for a solution.

Buddha challenged her to find mustard seeds from a house untouched by death.

Kisa Gotami's realization: the universality of mortality.

 Summary
The Lesson from Kisa Gotami's Experience

• Buddha's teaching: Grief and sorrow contribute to human suffering.

• Such emotions serve no purpose and harm one's well-being.
• Wise individuals accept the inevitability of life and death.
• Understanding nature's cycle leads to happiness and blessings.

Death is an unavoidable part of life for all living beings. Like fruits falling from
trees, our lives have a natural end. He also compared life to a fragile pot that
eventually breaks, explaining the futility of weeping and lamenting over the
departed.
 Character Sketch: Kisa Gotami
Kisa Gotami experienced deep grief after losing her only son.

She carried her dead child everywhere and desperately sought help from others
to cure him, showing her intense sorrow.

Despite being instructed by Buddha to seek mustard seeds with a specific

condition, she focused solely on her own pain and didn't consider the suffering
of others.

In her grief-stricken state, she forgot that death is a universal experience and
that everyone eventually suffers such losses in their families.

She became selfish in her desperation to fulfil the impossible condition.

The Proposal
 Theme

Absurdity of Human Nature – The play humorously portrays how people argue
over trivial matters even in serious situations like marriage.

Materialism in Marriage – Marriage is treated as a business deal, with wealth

and land taking precedence over love and compatibility.

Irony and Satire – Despite wanting to marry, Lomov and Natalya constantly
quarrel, highlighting the irony in human relationships.
 Theme

Social Status and Greed – Chubukov supports the marriage not for love but to
secure financial and social benefits.

Lack of Emotional Connection – Instead of expressing love, the characters focus

on property disputes and personal superiority.

Superficial Relationships – The play suggests that many marriages are not based
on emotions but on external advantages like wealth and property.
 Summary

One- act play, a farce (Drama known for satirical comedy and uncertain plot) by
Anton Chekhov.

Lomov’s unexpected visit

Setting: Chubukov's house

Lomov entered in evening attire.
Chubukov was happy and surprised at his appearance so, he asked the occasion.
 Summary

Lomov’s revelation

Lomov revealed that he had come to make a request.

Chubukov thought that he might have come to request for money.
Lomov then revealed that he wanted to ask for Natalya’s hand.
Chubukov got excited and left to call his daughter, Natalya.
 Summary
The after effects
Chubukov embraceed and kissed Lomov revealing that he had been hoping for it
for a long time.

Chubukov got filled with excitement and behaved idiotically.

He revealed about Natalya that she was in love too and called her “a lovesick
cat”.

(The tendency of wealthy families to seek ties with other wealthy families by
encouraging marriages that make good economic sense)
 Summary
Lomov's Description and Intentions

• Lomov's age: 35
• Palpitations, easily upset, poor sleeper
• Believed it was the right age to marry as he was never going to get an ideal
love.
• Described Natalya as average-looking, good housekeeper, beautiful and well-
educated.
• Mind made-up about marrying Natalya although he was feeling cold (nervous)
 Summary
Dispute over Oxen Meadows

A friendly conversation started between them about family terms.

In between their conversation, there was a mention of Oxen Meadows (a
disputed property).
A heated discussion began, Natalya disagreed and claimed her family’s
ownership on the land.
Lomov claimed that his aunt’s grandmother gave the Meadows for free use of
Chubukov’s grandfather’s peasants. So, he was the rightful owner of the open
meadows.
 Summary
Explosive Argument and Lomov's Health

Shouting and screaming continues, Lomov says that he will show the documents
but Natalya continues to disagree and fights for the ownership of the land(they
had the land for three hundred years).

She also says that they have lent their threshing machine.

Lomov feels that Natalya had called him a landgrabber.

They abused each other’s family members, calling Lomov’s grandfather a
drunkard, his younger aunt Nastasya had run away with an architect. Natalya
even called Lomov ‘a rascal’, Chubukov called him villain, a scarecrow and a
monster.
 Summary
Regret and Reconciliation Attempt

Natalya regretted sending Lomov out.

She was in hysterics and requested Chubukov to bring him back
Lomov returned, conversation shifted to shooting.
Another argument about dogs began:
Squeezer vs. Guess
Natalya’s dog Lomov’s dog
-85 roubles - 125 roubles

(Natalya felt that her Squeezer was better than Lomov’s Guess while
Lomov said that her dog was overshot (his lower jaw is shorter than the
upper).
 Summary
Lomov's Collapse and Unconsciousness

Argument escalated, Everyone got hyper and Lomov finally fell due to his
palpitations. Even then, the cursing continued when suddenly Natalya noticed
that he was unconscious.

They attempted to revive him with water fail.

Lomov was declared dead until he moves slightly.

It was only when Lomov moved a little bit, they fed him some water.
 Summary
Confusion & the end

Lomov still disoriented, didn't understand.

Stepan, wanting the best for his 25-year-old daughter Natalya, agreed to the
marriage proposal.
Chubukov took an exit, quarrel over Squeezer vs. Guess continued.
Lomov refused to accept Squeezer's superiority
Unfortunately, the newlywed couple quickly found themselves back where they
began, arguing about their materialistic possessions.
 Principle of Forgive and Forget
Letting go of anger and bitterness can bring positive changes to both our
mindset and overall well-being. Anger, like poison, has the power to ruin
relationships and happiness.

Life must move forward, and to progress, one must embrace the principle of
"forgive and forget." Only truly wise and sensitive individuals can practice this
philosophy.

Lomov visits Chubukov’s house with the intention of proposing to Natalya.

Initially, Chubukov is delighted, but soon, Lomov and Natalya get into petty
arguments over land and dogs.
 Principle of Forgive and Forget

Their heated disputes overshadow the real purpose of the visit. However, when
Natalya realizes Lomov’s intention, she immediately asks her father to call him
back. Though another argument follows, they ultimately decide to set aside their
differences and accept the proposal.
 Title Justification

The title is appropriate as the entire play revolves around a marriage proposal.
Lomov, a wealthy landowner, visits Chubukov’s house to propose to his
daughter, Natalya. However, instead of discussing marriage, they get into heated
arguments over land and their pet dogs. Despite their quarrels, the proposal
remains the central theme, as both families ultimately prioritize marriage over
disputes. The play humorously highlights how practical concerns like property
and status often influence marriages. In the end, Lomov and Natalya agree to
marry, making the title fitting as the story revolves around a marriage proposal.
 Character Sketch: Natalya
Natalya is a young and unmarried woman, around 25 years old, living near
Lomov. She is attractive and skilled, known for being a good-looking woman and
an excellent housekeeper.

She is also desperate for love, as her father, Chubukov, calls her a “lovesick cat.”

Despite this, she is argumentative and often quarrels with Lomov over trivial
matters, like the meadows and their dogs. Her sense of justice is strong, as she
firmly opposes unfairness, even though she does not care much about the
meadows themselves.
 Character Sketch: Natalya

Natalya is also sharp and independent, unwilling to give up land easily.

However, when she learns that Lomov came to propose, her eagerness for
marriage is clear, and she immediately accepts.

Her personality is a mix of stubbornness, passion, and a hidden desire for love.
 Character Sketch: Lomov
Lomov is a 35-year-old man who is anxious and eager to get married because he
feels he is growing old.

However, he is also foolish and eccentric, often worrying about his health issues
like palpitations and behaving oddly.

Lomov is extremely argumentative and gets into heated quarrels over trivial
matters, such as the ownership of Oxen Meadows and whose dog is better.

His lack of self-confidence makes it difficult for him to clearly express his
feelings, making him seem nervous and insecure.
 Character Sketch: Lomov

His comical and immature nature is evident as he stubbornly fights over petty
issues, almost ruining his marriage proposal.

His childish behaviour and inability to prioritize important things lead to

unnecessary chaos, making him an amusing yet flawed character.
 Character Sketch: Chubukov
Chubukov is a practical and materialistic man who values wealth and social
status above emotions. He sees his daughter Natalya’s marriage to Lomov as a
way to improve his family’s position in society.

He is manipulative and uses his daughter as a tool to achieve his goals. Though
he appears caring, his actions are mainly driven by self-interest. He is also
persuasive and tries to convince Natalya to accept Lomov’s proposal, claiming it
is for her happiness and security.

Despite his materialistic nature, Chubukov is also short-tempered and

argumentative, often joining in the silly fights between Lomov and Natalya,
which adds to the humour in the play. However, his main concern remains his
own material benefits rather than genuine affection for his daughter.
Thank You!