ICSE Class 10 English Solutions God Lives in the Panch
Passage 1
Question 1.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
The friendship was not the outcome of any sudden impulse. It dated from the days of their childhood, when Alagu sat for his lessons at the feet of Jumman’s father, who had his own notions, on how to bring up a lad. ‘Don’t spare the rod, or you’ll spoil him: is what he used to say. He practised this precept in the case of his own son Jumman, with the result that there was none in the village to equal him either in drafting a petition or drawing up a deed. In course of time, Jumman was highly esteemed in the village and the neighbourhood for his scholarship and attainments. Alagu’s father held different views. He believed that your teacher’s blessing would transform you into a fine scholar, and there could be no surer way to his good grace than to keep his ‘hookah’ fresh and feed his ‘chillum’ regularly. Poor Alagu was never found wanting in this service. And if in the end he failed to acquire much learning, the fault was not his but that of the stars. So argued his old father.
Whose friendship is being referred to in the passage?
Answer:
The passage refers to the friendship of Jumman Sheikh and Alagu Chowdhari. Their friendship was such that they not only tilled their lands together but also took care of each other’s households when anyone was away.
Question 2.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
The friendship was not the outcome of any sudden impulse. It dated from the days of their childhood, when Alagu sat for his lessons at the feet of Jumman’s father, who had his own notions, on how to bring up a lad. ‘Don’t spare the rod, or you’ll spoil him: is what he used to say. He practised this precept in the case of his own son Jumman, with the result that there was none in the village to equal him either in drafting a petition or drawing up a deed. In course of time, Jumman was highly esteemed in the village and the neighbourhood for his scholarship and attainments. Alagu’s father held different views. He believed that your teacher’s blessing would transform you into a fine scholar, and there could be no surer way to his good grace than to keep his ‘hookah’ fresh and feed his ‘chillum’ regularly. Poor Alagu was never found wanting in this service. And if in the end he failed to acquire much learning, the fault was not his but that of the stars. So argued his old father.
What notion did Jumman’s father have about bringing up a boy?
Answer:
Jumman’s father had his own notions about bringing up a boy. He was of the opinion that one should be strict with boys because if you spared the rod you would spoil the boy.
Question 3.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
The friendship was not the outcome of any sudden impulse. It dated from the days of their childhood, when Alagu sat for his lessons at the feet of Jumman’s father, who had his own notions, on how to bring up a lad. ‘Don’t spare the rod, or you’ll spoil him: is what he used to say. He practised this precept in the case of his own son Jumman, with the result that there was none in the village to equal him either in drafting a petition or drawing up a deed. In course of time, Jumman was highly esteemed in the village and the neighbourhood for his scholarship and attainments. Alagu’s father held different views. He believed that your teacher’s blessing would transform you into a fine scholar, and there could be no surer way to his good grace than to keep his ‘hookah’ fresh and feed his ‘chillum’ regularly. Poor Alagu was never found wanting in this service. And if in the end he failed to acquire much learning, the fault was not his but that of the stars. So argued his old father.
What effect did Mr Sheikh’s teachings have on Jumman how was it different from Alagu’s upbringing?
Answer:
Jumman’s father practised his precept of strict upbringing with his son right from the start. The result was such that there was no one in the village who could draft a petition or draw up a deed like Jumman could. On the other hand, Alagu’s father believed getting one’s teacher’s blessings by keeping him happy was the only way of succeeding in life. Alagu did not gain much learning by this approach.
Question 4.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
The friendship was not the outcome of any sudden impulse. It dated from the days of their childhood, when Alagu sat for his lessons at the feet of Jumman’s father, who had his own notions, on how to bring up a lad. ‘Don’t spare the rod, or you’ll spoil him: is what he used to say. He practised this precept in the case of his own son Jumman, with the result that there was none in the village to equal him either in drafting a petition or drawing up a deed. In course of time, Jumman was highly esteemed in the village and the neighbourhood for his scholarship and attainments. Alagu’s father held different views. He believed that your teacher’s blessing would transform you into a fine scholar, and there could be no surer way to his good grace than to keep his ‘hookah’ fresh and feed his ‘chillum’ regularly. Poor Alagu was never found wanting in this service. And if in the end he failed to acquire much learning, the fault was not his but that of the stars. So argued his old father.
What thoughts did Alagu’s father have about learning and teachers?
Answer:
Alagu’s father thought that a teacher’s blessing could transform the student into a fine scholar and that there was no better way of getting his good grace than by keeping his ‘hookah’ fresh and feeding his ‘chillum’ regularly.
Passage 2
Question 1.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
Patience has its limits. One day, unable to bear this constant nagging and insult from his wife the aunt spoke, to Jumman. Jumman flatly refused to interfere in household affairs. He told her in effect that his wife knew best how to run the house. Crest-fallen, the old aunt tried to bear as well as she could her daily humiliation. But at length even her patience gave way. She called Jumman and said to him: ‘My son, it is clear there is no room for me in your house. You had better give me a small allowance so that I can set up a separate kitchen.’
Does money grow on trees?’ replied Jumman tartly.
‘Of course not. But how am I to live?’ pleaded the aunt.
‘Who said that you had conquered death?’ taunted Jumman gravely. This exasperated the aunt. She threatened to take her case before the panchayat.
Explain the first line of the extract with reference to context.
Answer:
Jumman had a maternal aunt who transferred her property to him by a deed with an understanding that he would look after her well. However, Jumman and his wife started ill-treating her after receiving the property. Jumman’s wife abused and humiliated her frequently. Finally, the aunt lost her patience and spoke to Jumman about the behaviour of his wife.
Question 2.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
Patience has its limits. One day, unable to bear this constant nagging and insult from his wife the aunt spoke, to Jumman. Jumman flatly refused to interfere in household affairs. He told her in effect that his wife knew best how to run the house. Crest-fallen, the old aunt tried to bear as well as she could her daily humiliation. But at length even her patience gave way. She called Jumman and said to him: ‘My son, it is clear there is no room for me in your house. You had better give me a small allowance so that I can set up a separate kitchen.’
Does money grow on trees?’ replied Jumman tartly.
‘Of course not. But how am I to live?’ pleaded the aunt.
‘Who said that you had conquered death?’ taunted Jumman gravely. This exasperated the aunt. She threatened to take her case before the panchayat.
What was Jumman’s reaction to his aunt’s complaint?
Answer:
Jumman refused to believe his aunt when she told him that his wife was not looking after her well. He remained passive and even refused to give her an allowance so that she could set up her own kitchen in the house.
Question 3.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
Patience has its limits. One day, unable to bear this constant nagging and insult from his wife the aunt spoke, to Jumman. Jumman flatly refused to interfere in household affairs. He told her in effect that his wife knew best how to run the house. Crest-fallen, the old aunt tried to bear as well as she could her daily humiliation. But at length even her patience gave way. She called Jumman and said to him: ‘My son, it is clear there is no room for me in your house. You had better give me a small allowance so that I can set up a separate kitchen.’
Does money grow on trees?’ replied Jumman tartly.
‘Of course not. But how am I to live?’ pleaded the aunt.
‘Who said that you had conquered death?’ taunted Jumman gravely. This exasperated the aunt. She threatened to take her case before the panchayat.
What did the aunt threaten to do? What was Jumman’s reaction to her threat?
Answer:
Jumman’s aunt threatened to go to the panch to seek justice if he refused to treat her well. Jumman thought her to be ridiculous when she made this threat as he thought that the panch would surely pass the judgement in his favour. There was no one in the village whom he had not done a favour.
Question 4.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
Patience has its limits. One day, unable to bear this constant nagging and insult from his wife the aunt spoke, to Jumman. Jumman flatly refused to interfere in household affairs. He told her in effect that his wife knew best how to run the house. Crest-fallen, the old aunt tried to bear as well as she could her daily humiliation. But at length even her patience gave way. She called Jumman and said to him: ‘My son, it is clear there is no room for me in your house. You had better give me a small allowance so that I can set up a separate kitchen.’
Does money grow on trees?’ replied Jumman tartly.
‘Of course not. But how am I to live?’ pleaded the aunt.
‘Who said that you had conquered death?’ taunted Jumman gravely. This exasperated the aunt. She threatened to take her case before the panchayat.
What was the reason for Jumman to behave inappropriately with his aunt? Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
Patience has its limits. One day, unable to bear this constant nagging and insult from his wife the aunt spoke, to Jumman. Jumman flatly refused to interfere in household affairs. He told her in effect that his wife knew best how to run the house. Crest-fallen, the old aunt tried to bear as well as she could her daily humiliation. But at length even her patience gave way. She called Jumman and said to him: ‘My son, it is clear there is no room for me in your house. You had better give me a small allowance so that I can set up a separate kitchen.’
Does money grow on trees?’ replied Jumman tartly.
‘Of course not. But how am I to live?’ pleaded the aunt.
‘Who said that you had conquered death?’ taunted Jumman gravely. This exasperated the aunt. She threatened to take her case before the panchayat.
What was the reason for Jumman to behave inappropriately with his aunt?
Answer:
Jumman always wanted to get hold of his aunt’s property. Before she signed the deed, he was a dotting nephew and anticipated and carried out her every wish. However, the moment the papers were signed, he turned indifferent to the old woman. He wanted the property but he was not ready to shoulder the responsibility of the old woman. He and his wife were disgruntled with the little food the aunt ate and found it impossible to keep her well.
Passage 3
Question 1.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
‘Since you insist, I will come,’ said Alagu, ‘but you will have to excuse me if I don’t take any part in the proceedings.’ Why so, my son?’ ‘Because, as you know, Jumman is my old friend: I can ill afford to go against him.’ ‘But is it right, my son, that for his sake you should keep your mouth shut and not say what you feel, what you consider just?’ When our conscience is asleep we may not be conscious of the wrong we do unwittingly, but challenge your conscience, wake it up, and you will find that it puts up with nothing that is unfair. So it happened with Alagu. He did not reply, but the words of the old aunt kept ringing in his ears.
Who all did the old woman go to before approaching Alagu?
Answer:
The old woman went from villager to villager leaning on her poor staff telling about her miserable condition to anyone sparing her some time. Although her old age and weak body made it difficult for her to move around, she was on a mission to make her woes known to everyone before she approached the panchayat.
Question 2.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
‘Since you insist, I will come,’ said Alagu, ‘but you will have to excuse me if I don’t take any part in the proceedings.’ Why so, my son?’ ‘Because, as you know, Jumman is my old friend: I can ill afford to go against him.’ ‘But is it right, my son, that for his sake you should keep your mouth shut and not say what you feel, what you consider just?’ When our conscience is asleep we may not be conscious of the wrong we do unwittingly, but challenge your conscience, wake it up, and you will find that it puts up with nothing that is unfair. So it happened with Alagu. He did not reply, but the words of the old aunt kept ringing in his ears.
Why did the old aunt go to Alagu? What did they speak?
Answer:
She wanted Alagu to attend the panchayat when her matter came up. Alagu told her that he would attend the panchayat but wouldn’t participate in the proceedings owing to his relations with Jumman. At this, the old lady advised him to act as his conscience would deem appropriate.
Question 3.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
‘Since you insist, I will come,’ said Alagu, ‘but you will have to excuse me if I don’t take any part in the proceedings.’ Why so, my son?’ ‘Because, as you know, Jumman is my old friend: I can ill afford to go against him.’ ‘But is it right, my son, that for his sake you should keep your mouth shut and not say what you feel, what you consider just?’ When our conscience is asleep we may not be conscious of the wrong we do unwittingly, but challenge your conscience, wake it up, and you will find that it puts up with nothing that is unfair. So it happened with Alagu. He did not reply, but the words of the old aunt kept ringing in his ears.
Why did Alagu not want to take part in the proceedings of the panchayat?
Answer:
Alagu had very good relations with Jumman. He thought that if he attended the panchayat and said anything that was not in favour of Jumman then their friendship would suffer.
Question 4.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
‘Since you insist, I will come,’ said Alagu, ‘but you will have to excuse me if I don’t take any part in the proceedings.’ Why so, my son?’ ‘Because, as you know, Jumman is my old friend: I can ill afford to go against him.’ ‘But is it right, my son, that for his sake you should keep your mouth shut and not say what you feel, what you consider just?’ When our conscience is asleep we may not be conscious of the wrong we do unwittingly, but challenge your conscience, wake it up, and you will find that it puts up with nothing that is unfair. So it happened with Alagu. He did not reply, but the words of the old aunt kept ringing in his ears.
Whose words kept ringing in Alagu’s ears?
Answer:
Jumman’s aunt said to Alagu that when his conscience is challenged and woken up, he would find out that it puts up with nothing that is unfair. These words of the old woman kept ringing in his ears.
Passage 4
Question 1.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
‘You know members of the panchayat, that three years ago I executed a deed in favour of my nephew Jumman, transferring all my property to him. Jumman on his part promised to maintain me. For a long time I have been subjected to abuse, insults and nagging from his wife without any help from Jumman. Things have now come to such a pass that it is no longer possible for me to live with him. I am denied food and clothes. I am a helpless widow, too poor to run to the courts for redress. All I can do is to appeal to you for justice. Please advise me what to do. Punish me if I am in the wrong; but if you find fault with Jumman correct him, I solemnly assure you that I shall faithfully carry out your orders.
Who is the speaker in the given extract?
Answer:
The speaker in the given extract is Jumman’s maternal aunt.
Question 2.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
‘You know members of the panchayat, that three years ago I executed a deed in favour of my nephew Jumman, transferring all my property to him. Jumman on his part promised to maintain me. For a long time I have been subjected to abuse, insults and nagging from his wife without any help from Jumman. Things have now come to such a pass that it is no longer possible for me to live with him. I am denied food and clothes. I am a helpless widow, too poor to run to the courts for redress. All I can do is to appeal to you for justice. Please advise me what to do. Punish me if I am in the wrong; but if you find fault with Jumman correct him, I solemnly assure you that I shall faithfully carry out your orders.
Describe the site where the village panchayat meeting was going to take place.
Answer:
The place where the panchayat was going to be held presented a strange sight. The panchayat was going to be held in the evening and Jumman welcomed the guests as they came one by one. A carpet was spread and a good supply was provided of pan, elaichi and hookahs. Live charcoal was kept glowing in one corner to feed the ‘chillums’ as it was constantly demanded by the guests.
Question 3.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
‘You know members of the panchayat, that three years ago I executed a deed in favour of my nephew Jumman, transferring all my property to him. Jumman on his part promised to maintain me. For a long time I have been subjected to abuse, insults and nagging from his wife without any help from Jumman. Things have now come to such a pass that it is no longer possible for me to live with him. I am denied food and clothes. I am a helpless widow, too poor to run to the courts for redress. All I can do is to appeal to you for justice. Please advise me what to do. Punish me if I am in the wrong; but if you find fault with Jumman correct him, I solemnly assure you that I shall faithfully carry out your orders.
What was the complaint of the old woman?
Answer:
The old woman, Jumman’s maternal aunt, had transferred her property to Jumman three years ago. In return Jumman had promised to take care of her. However, for a long time, she was being subjected to abuse, insults, and nagging by his wife apart from being denied basic necessities like food and clothing. Jumman too, had become indifferent to her. The old aunt therefore pleaded for justice in front of the panchayat.
Question 4.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
‘You know members of the panchayat, that three years ago I executed a deed in favour of my nephew Jumman, transferring all my property to him. Jumman on his part promised to maintain me. For a long time I have been subjected to abuse, insults and nagging from his wife without any help from Jumman. Things have now come to such a pass that it is no longer possible for me to live with him. I am denied food and clothes. I am a helpless widow, too poor to run to the courts for redress. All I can do is to appeal to you for justice. Please advise me what to do. Punish me if I am in the wrong; but if you find fault with Jumman correct him, I solemnly assure you that I shall faithfully carry out your orders.
How was Jumman related to the old woman?
Answer:
Juman was the nephew of the old woman.
Question 5.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
‘You know members of the panchayat, that three years ago I executed a deed in favour of my nephew Jumman, transferring all my property to him. Jumman on his part promised to maintain me. For a long time I have been subjected to abuse, insults and nagging from his wife without any help from Jumman. Things have now come to such a pass that it is no longer possible for me to live with him. I am denied food and clothes. I am a helpless widow, too poor to run to the courts for redress. All I can do is to appeal to you for justice. Please advise me what to do. Punish me if I am in the wrong; but if you find fault with Jumman correct him, I solemnly assure you that I shall faithfully carry out your orders.
Who all were present at the panchayat?
Answer:
Apart from the members of the panch, Alagu, who stood at the far end of the scene and several people who nursed a grievance against Jumman were present at the panchayat.
Passage 5
Question 1.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
My son, fear God. The panch knows neither friend nor enemy. If’ you don’t trust anyone, don’t propose any name. But what do you say to Alagu Chowdhari?’ Jumman was not prepared for this good luck. Hiding his secret joy, he replied: ‘Very well. If you must have him, have him. It is all the same to me whether you nominate Alagu Chowdhari or Ramadhan Misra.’ Alagu, who did not wish to be dragged into the dispute, now demurred, and said: ‘Aunt, you are not unaware or my relations with Junkman.’ ‘I know them well, my son,’ she replied, ‘but I also know that you will not kill your conscience for the sake of friendship. Allah lives in the heart of the panch, and his voice is the voice of God.
Explain ‘The panch knows neither friend nor enemy’.
Answer:
The above words are uttered by Jumman’s aunt at the panchayat when Jumman comes across as an egotistical fool. The aunt tries to explain to him that the village panchayat is non-biased and its voice is the voice of God. Everyone is equal in front of the panch and that its decision will be in the best interest of everyone.
Question 2.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
My son, fear God. The panch knows neither friend nor enemy. If’ you don’t trust anyone, don’t propose any name. But what do you say to Alagu Chowdhari?’ Jumman was not prepared for this good luck. Hiding his secret joy, he replied: ‘Very well. If you must have him, have him. It is all the same to me whether you nominate Alagu Chowdhari or Ramadhan Misra.’ Alagu, who did not wish to be dragged into the dispute, now demurred, and said: ‘Aunt, you are not unaware or my relations with Junkman.’ ‘I know them well, my son,’ she replied, ‘but I also know that you will not kill your conscience for the sake of friendship. Allah lives in the heart of the panch, and his voice is the voice of God.
Whose name did the old aunt propose as the head of the panchayat? Why?
Answer:
The Aunt proposed Alagu as her nominee to be the head panch because she knew that Alagu had a strong conscience that would never falter or crumble under pressure.
Question 3.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
My son, fear God. The panch knows neither friend nor enemy. If’ you don’t trust anyone, don’t propose any name. But what do you say to Alagu Chowdhari?’ Jumman was not prepared for this good luck. Hiding his secret joy, he replied: ‘Very well. If you must have him, have him. It is all the same to me whether you nominate Alagu Chowdhari or Ramadhan Misra.’ Alagu, who did not wish to be dragged into the dispute, now demurred, and said: ‘Aunt, you are not unaware or my relations with Junkman.’ ‘I know them well, my son,’ she replied, ‘but I also know that you will not kill your conscience for the sake of friendship. Allah lives in the heart of the panch, and his voice is the voice of God.
What did Jumman think after the nominee’s name was announced?
Answer:
When Alagu’s name was announced as the nominee by the old aunt, Jumman couldn’t believe his luck. Since Alagu was his very good friend, he assumed that he would obviously favour him before the panchayat.
Question 4.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
My son, fear God. The panch knows neither friend nor enemy. If’ you don’t trust anyone, don’t propose any name. But what do you say to Alagu Chowdhari?’ Jumman was not prepared for this good luck. Hiding his secret joy, he replied: ‘Very well. If you must have him, have him. It is all the same to me whether you nominate Alagu Chowdhari or Ramadhan Misra.’ Alagu, who did not wish to be dragged into the dispute, now demurred, and said: ‘Aunt, you are not unaware or my relations with Junkman.’ ‘I know them well, my son,’ she replied, ‘but I also know that you will not kill your conscience for the sake of friendship. Allah lives in the heart of the panch, and his voice is the voice of God.
What was the reaction of people who disliked Jumman after the nominee’s name was announced?
Answer:
When Alagu was chosen as the aunt’s nominee, Ramadhan Mishra and the others who were opposed to Jumman cursed the old woman for her folly in their heart of hearts.
Passage 6
Question 1.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
Jumman was stunned. The words fell on his ears like a thunderbolt. He could not understand. The friend on whom he relied so much had suddenly turned into a bitter foe! It was only in crucial moments like this that friendship was tested! ‘Kaliyuga’ had indeed come for deceit and treachery were synonymous with friendship. No wonder that plague and, cholera were ravaging the country! It was different with Ramadhan Misra and other members of the panchayat. No praise was now too high for Alagu and his sense of fairness and Justice. ‘This is the true panchayat.’ ‘Alagu has divided truth from falsehood as a swan separates.
Why was Jumman stunned?
Answer:
Jumman was stunned because he was shocked to find Alagu, his friend talking in favour of his aunt instead of him. He had expected the decision of the panchayat to be in his favour as he and Alagu were close friends.
Question 2.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
Jumman was stunned. The words fell on his ears like a thunderbolt. He could not understand. The friend on whom he relied so much had suddenly turned into a bitter foe! It was only in crucial moments like this that friendship was tested! ‘Kaliyuga’ had indeed come for deceit and treachery were synonymous with friendship. No wonder that plague and, cholera were ravaging the country! It was different with Ramadhan Misra and other members of the panchayat. No praise was now too high for Alagu and his sense of fairness and Justice. ‘This is the true panchayat.’ ‘Alagu has divided truth from falsehood as a swan separates.
What was the panchayat’s final judgement?
Answer:
Alagu and the other members of the panchayat came to the conclusion that Jumman was liable to pay his aunt a fixed monthly allowance out of the realization from her property. Alagu further said that if Jumman failed to oblige by the judgement, the deed which transferred the aunt’s property to him would be deemed void.
Question 3.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
Jumman was stunned. The words fell on his ears like a thunderbolt. He could not understand. The friend on whom he relied so much had suddenly turned into a bitter foe! It was only in crucial moments like this that friendship was tested! ‘Kaliyuga’ had indeed come for deceit and treachery were synonymous with friendship. No wonder that plague and, cholera were ravaging the country! It was different with Ramadhan Misra and other members of the panchayat. No praise was now too high for Alagu and his sense of fairness and Justice. ‘This is the true panchayat.’ ‘Alagu has divided truth from falsehood as a swan separates.
Was Alagu’s friendship tested during the panchayat meeting?
Answer:
Alagu’s friendship was tested during the panchayat meeting. Both Alagu and Jumman were friends since childhood. Jumman had considered his case already won when he realised that Alagu was chosen as the nominee by his aunt. However, he hadn’t imagined that Alagu would go against him and pass a judgement against him. In doing so, however, Alagu proved that justice was above everything else.
Question 4.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
Jumman was stunned. The words fell on his ears like a thunderbolt. He could not understand. The friend on whom he relied so much had suddenly turned into a bitter foe! It was only in crucial moments like this that friendship was tested! ‘Kaliyuga’ had indeed come for deceit and treachery were synonymous with friendship. No wonder that plague and, cholera were ravaging the country! It was different with Ramadhan Misra and other members of the panchayat. No praise was now too high for Alagu and his sense of fairness and Justice. ‘This is the true panchayat.’ ‘Alagu has divided truth from falsehood as a swan separates.
What was the reaction of Ramadhan Mishra and the panchayat?
Answer:
When they heard the panchayat’s decision, Ramadhan Mishra and the other members of the panchayat couldn’t stop praising Alagu for his sense of fairness and justice.
Passage 7
Question 1.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
There lived in the village one Samjhu Sahu, a cart-driver, who carried on his business between the village and the town. He used to take the village commodities to the town, and with the proceeds of their sale he brought back to the village, such ……, goods as found already market there. He thought to himself that if he could get Alagu’s bullock he would be able to make at least three or four trips daily to the town and back, and thus swell his profits. At present all he could do was to make one or two trips to the town market. With this purpose he negotiated for the purchase of Alagu’s bullock; and ultimately after trial, purchased it on the understanding that he would pay the price in a month’s time.
Who was Samjhu Sahu and what did he want?
Answer:
Samhju Sahu was a cart-driver who wanted to buy Alagu’s bullock.
Question 2.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
There lived in the village one Samjhu Sahu, a cart-driver, who carried on his business between the village and the town. He used to take the village commodities to the town, and with the proceeds of their sale he brought back to the village, such ……, goods as found already market there. He thought to himself that if he could get Alagu’s bullock he would be able to make at least three or four trips daily to the town and back, and thus swell his profits. At present all he could do was to make one or two trips to the town market. With this purpose he negotiated for the purchase of Alagu’s bullock; and ultimately after trial, purchased it on the understanding that he would pay the price in a month’s time.
How did he decide to buy the bullock?
Answer:
Samjhu negotiated for the purchase of Alagu’s bullock on the understanding that he would pay the price in a month’s time.
Question 3.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
There lived in the village one Samjhu Sahu, a cart-driver, who carried on his business between the village and the town. He used to take the village commodities to the town, and with the proceeds of their sale he brought back to the village, such ……, goods as found already market there. He thought to himself that if he could get Alagu’s bullock he would be able to make at least three or four trips daily to the town and back, and thus swell his profits. At present all he could do was to make one or two trips to the town market. With this purpose he negotiated for the purchase of Alagu’s bullock; and ultimately after trial, purchased it on the understanding that he would pay the price in a month’s time.
What kind of business did Samjhu do? How would Alagu’s bullock impact Samjhu’s business?
Answer:
Samjhu had a business of transporting commodities from the village to the town. With the proceeds of their sale he brought back to the village goods that were unavailable in the village. Alagu’s bullock was strong and sturdy. If Samjhu were to buy it, his business would definitely benefit a great deal from it. Instead of just one trip to the town per day, he would be able to make at least three to four trips in a single day.
Passage 8
Question 1.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
Alagu Chowdhari was not without his enemies in the village. The news that Sahu had refused to honour his promise soon spread. All those whom Alagu had displeased now gathered round Sahu and supported his contention. But one hundred and fifty rupees- the price of the bullock – was not a small sum and Alagu could not ill-afford to forego it. Though rebuffed and abused again and again by Sahu whenever he approached him, he did not give up his claim.
Who was in support of Sahu? Why?
Answer:
All those whom Alagu had displeased supported Sahu when the news that Sahu had refused to pay Alagu spread.
Question 2.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
Alagu Chowdhari was not without his enemies in the village. The news that Sahu had refused to honour his promise soon spread. All those whom Alagu had displeased now gathered round Sahu and supported his contention. But one hundred and fifty rupees- the price of the bullock – was not a small sum and Alagu could not ill-afford to forego it. Though rebuffed and abused again and again by Sahu whenever he approached him, he did not give up his claim.
Why was Sahu supposed to pay Alagu? Why did he refuse to pay him?
Answer:
Sahu has purchased a bullock from Alagu on the condition that he would pay him within a month. However, Sahu overworked the animal so much that one day it died on its way to the village. Sahu suffered a loss as all his goods worth hundreds were lost. As a result, he turned away from his promise to pay Alagu.
Question 3.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
Alagu Chowdhari was not without his enemies in the village. The news that Sahu had refused to honour his promise soon spread. All those whom Alagu had displeased now gathered round Sahu and supported his contention. But one hundred and fifty rupees- the price of the bullock – was not a small sum and Alagu could not ill-afford to forego it. Though rebuffed and abused again and again by Sahu whenever he approached him, he did not give up his claim.
How did Sahu treat Alagu when he was approached by the latter for his money?
Answer:
Alagu was ill-treated by Sahu whenever he approached him for the unpaid price of the bullock. Not only Sahu, but also his wife behaved badly with Alagu. Whenever he went to Sahu’s home to ask for his money, she along with Sahu would abuse, curse and humiliate Alagu.
Question 4.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
Alagu Chowdhari was not without his enemies in the village. The news that Sahu had refused to honour his promise soon spread. All those whom Alagu had displeased now gathered round Sahu and supported his contention. But one hundred and fifty rupees- the price of the bullock – was not a small sum and Alagu could not ill-afford to forego it. Though rebuffed and abused again and again by Sahu whenever he approached him, he did not give up his claim.
How did Alagu and Sahu decide to bring an end to their quarrel?
Answer:
Alagu and Sahu were advised by the village crowd that they approach the village panchayat to get a fair decision on their quarrel.
Passage 9
Question 1.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
At the sound of Jumman’s name Alagu’s heart began to sink. His face turned pale and it looked as if he had received a sudden blow. But what could he do? He had himself asked Sahu to make his own nomination. Ramdhan Misra, his friend; sensed what was passing in Alagu’s mind, and in order to help him out he slyly prompted: ‘Have you Alagu, any objection to Sahu’s nomination?’ But Alagu did not take the hint. In a low and despondent voice he replied ‘None whatever.’
So Jumman became the head-panch.
We became conscious of our weakness the moment we are placed in some responsible position. We then try to prove equal to the task. If we are ever tempted to go astray, it is this thought which prevents us from doing so.
Why did Alagu’s heart begin to sink?
Answer:
Sahu chose Jumman as the head of the panchayat during the proceedings of their trail. In an earlier decision by the panch, Jumman was held guilty by Alagu as the head of the panch. Now, when he was one of the disputed party, he realised that Jumman was likely to take revenge of what he had done to him during the earlier trial.
Question 2.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
At the sound of Jumman’s name Alagu’s heart began to sink. His face turned pale and it looked as if he had received a sudden blow. But what could he do? He had himself asked Sahu to make his own nomination. Ramdhan Misra, his friend; sensed what was passing in Alagu’s mind, and in order to help him out he slyly prompted: ‘Have you Alagu, any objection to Sahu’s nomination?’ But Alagu did not take the hint. In a low and despondent voice he replied ‘None whatever.’
So Jumman became the head-panch.
We became conscious of our weakness the moment we are placed in some responsible position. We then try to prove equal to the task. If we are ever tempted to go astray, it is this thought which prevents us from doing so.
Who was Ramdhan Misra? How did he try to help Alagu during the panchayat meeting?
Answer:
Ramdhan Misra was one of the members of the panchayat and a friend of Alagu. When Sahu nominated Jumman as the head of the panch, Ramdhan sensed that Alagu might be tensed and asked him if he had problem with Sahu’s nomination.
Question 3.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
At the sound of Jumman’s name Alagu’s heart began to sink. His face turned pale and it looked as if he had received a sudden blow. But what could he do? He had himself asked Sahu to make his own nomination. Ramdhan Misra, his friend; sensed what was passing in Alagu’s mind, and in order to help him out he slyly prompted: ‘Have you Alagu, any objection to Sahu’s nomination?’ But Alagu did not take the hint. In a low and despondent voice he replied ‘None whatever.’
So Jumman became the head-panch.
We became conscious of our weakness the moment we are placed in some responsible position. We then try to prove equal to the task. If we are ever tempted to go astray, it is this thought which prevents us from doing so.
Was Alagu able to pick the hint from Ramdhan?
Answer:
Alagu was too worried to pick the hint from Ramdhan’s comment. He was unable to understand why his friend asked him if he would have a problem with Jumman as the head of the panch.
Passage 10
Question 1.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
‘Since the last panchayat I have been your sworn enemy. Today I realised what it was to be a panch: that he has no private feelings of his own; that he knows neither friend nor foe. All that matters to him is to administer justice. I am convinced now, that the panch speaks the voice of God.’
This was too much for Alagu. He broke down and wept on Jumman’s shoulders. The tears he shed that day washed away all the dirt and dust of misunderstanding between the two friends, and thus the withered and faded creeper of their friendship once again became fresh and green.
Who is referring to whom as the sworn enemy in the given extract? Why?
Answer:
Jumman is referring to Alagu as his sworn enemy in the given extract. In a trail as a head panch, Alagu had to give a decision against Jumman, his close friend. This incident created a rift between the two friends and they started avoided confrontation with each other. Since Alagu favoured Jumman’s aunt over him during the panchayat trail, Jumman started harbouring feelings of hatred for Alagu.
Question 2.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
‘Since the last panchayat I have been your sworn enemy. Today I realised what it was to be a panch: that he has no private feelings of his own; that he knows neither friend nor foe. All that matters to him is to administer justice. I am convinced now, that the panch speaks the voice of God.’
This was too much for Alagu. He broke down and wept on Jumman’s shoulders. The tears he shed that day washed away all the dirt and dust of misunderstanding between the two friends, and thus the withered and faded creeper of their friendship once again became fresh and green.
What did Jumman realise after the judgement for his case was delivered by Alagu?
Answer:
After the trail, Jumman ruled in favour of Alagu, despite breeding hatred for him. When the result was announced, Alagu was elated on being served justice it is at that point that Jumman realised that when a person becomes a part of the panch, his only duty is to administer justice without favouring personal relationships or feelings.
Question 3.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
‘Since the last panchayat I have been your sworn enemy. Today I realised what it was to be a panch: that he has no private feelings of his own; that he knows neither friend nor foe. All that matters to him is to administer justice. I am convinced now, that the panch speaks the voice of God.’
This was too much for Alagu. He broke down and wept on Jumman’s shoulders. The tears he shed that day washed away all the dirt and dust of misunderstanding between the two friends, and thus the withered and faded creeper of their friendship once again became fresh and green.
How was Alagu and Jumman relationship reconciled?
Answer:
Both Jumman and Alagu had a common outlook towards justice and fairness, which is the very reason why none of them faltered while giving their decisions for the panchayat. After the second trail, Alagu broke into tears on Jumman’s shoulders. Jumman too confessed to having harboured ill feelings for Alagu after the first trail, where he was asked to take care of his old aunt. However, he understood that the panchayat speaks the voice of God and that there are no favours or special treatments. At the end, both the friends forgot what had happened and became friends again.