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Class 10: GLIMPSES OF INDIA

GLIMPSES OF INDIA 

The lesson “Glimpses of India” is divided into three parts, each written by a different author.
Each part gives us a picture (“glimpse”) of India’s diversity — its people, culture, food, traditions, and landscapes.

Part 1: A Baker from Goa — by Lucio Rodrigues

Central Idea

This story recalls the traditional Goan village life, focusing on the importance of the baker (pader) in their community, showing that Portuguese influence still continues in modern Goa.

Themes

  • Traditional occupations
  • Cultural heritage and Portuguese influence
  • Simplicity of village life
  • Nostalgia for the past

Message

Old traditions and professions, though changed, still have cultural importance and should be respected.

Tone & Mood

  • Tone: Nostalgic and affectionate
  • Mood: Warm, cheerful, reminiscent

Key Points

  • Bakers were important in every Goan household.
  • Bread was essential for occasions like weddings and Christmas.
  • Children loved the baker’s arrival.
  • The author fondly remembers his childhood and the “pader.

    Setting: The story is set in a small village in Goa during the time when Portuguese traditions were still present. It gives a nostalgic picture of Goan village life, where bread-baking was an important part of every household. The setting is calm, simple, and full of warmth and community spirit.

Characters

  • The Baker (Pader): A friendly, hardworking village baker who was respected by everyone. He sold bread and cakes daily and was loved especially by children.
  • The Author (Narrator): Remembers his childhood in Goa fondly and narrates how important the baker was in daily life.
  • Villagers/Children: Represent the Goan community who eagerly waited for the baker’s arrival every morning.

Title Significance

The title “A Baker from Goa” gives a glimpse of Goan culture through the story of a village baker. It highlights how traditional professions form a vital part of India’s diverse heritage. The baker symbolizes the lasting impact of the Portuguese and the importance of simple village traditions.

 

Part 2: Coorg — by Lokesh Abrol

Central Idea

This part describes Coorg (Kodagu), a beautiful hill station in Karnataka, highlighting its natural beauty, coffee plantations, brave people, and culture.

Themes

  • Nature and adventure
  • Hospitality and courage
  • Cultural diversity of India
  • Harmony between man and nature

Message

India’s strength lies in its diversity, courage, and deep connection to nature.

Tone & Mood

  • Tone: Descriptive and admiring
  • Mood: Refreshing, adventurous, proud

Key Points

  • Coorg is famous for its coffee, spices, and forests.
  • Coorgi people are known for bravery (many serve in the Indian Army).
  • They are possibly of Greek or Arab descent.
  • Popular tourist activities: trekking, rafting, and bird-watching.

Setting

The story is set in Coorg (Kodagu), a beautiful hill station in Karnataka, nestled between Mysore and Mangalore. The region is covered with coffee plantations, evergreen forests, and rivers. The setting is described as peaceful, misty, and heavenly, showing the beauty of nature and the charm of rural life.

Characters

  • The Coorgi People: Brave, hospitable, and proud of their culture. Many serve in the Indian Army. They are described as courageous, friendly, and nature-loving.
  • The Narrator: Acts as a guide, describing the beauty, history, and traditions of Coorg to the readers.
  • (No central individual character, but the community itself is the focus.)

Title Significance

The title “Coorg” is apt because the entire piece is a travel sketch that presents a vivid picture of this beautiful region — its nature, people, and traditions. It offers a true “glimpse of India” by showcasing the natural and cultural richness of one part of the country.

Tea from Assam — by Arup Kumar Datta

Central Idea

The story narrates a journey through Assam by two friends, Pranjol and Rajvir, and highlights the origin, cultivation, and popularity of tea — a symbol of India’s connection with the world.

Themes

  • Curiosity and learning
  • Indian agriculture and trade
  • Pride in Indian products
  • Nature and travel

Message

India is rich in natural resources and traditions; we should take pride in them and learn from our surroundings.

Tone & Mood

  • Tone: Informative and enthusiastic
  • Mood: Curious, educational, lively

Key Points

  • Rajvir is visiting Assam, known for its tea gardens.
  • He shares interesting facts about tea’s origin in China and its spread to India.
  • The story reflects India’s significance in tea production.
  • Tea symbolizes Indian culture and daily life.

Overall Themes of “Glimpses of India”

  • Unity in diversity
  • Cultural richness of India
  • Simplicity and beauty of rural life
  • Pride in Indian traditions and nature

    Question and Answers - NCERT

Question 2: Is bread an important part of Goan life? How do you know this?

Answer: Yes, bread is an important part of Goan life. It is needed for marriage gifts, parties, and feasts. Bread is also needed by a mother to prepare sandwiches during her daughter’s engagement. Thus, it is necessary to have bread for every occasion, because of which the presence of a baker’s furnace in the village is very important

Question 2.
What is the story about the Kodavu people’s descent?

Answer: The fiercely independent people of Coorg are descendants of Greeks or Arabs. A section of Alexander’s army moved South along the coast and settled here only when they were unable to return to their country. These people married among the locals. This is the story about the descent of Kodavu people.

HOTS

Q1. Why does the author remember the baker so fondly?
Ans. The author remembers the baker fondly because he was a part of everyone’s daily life. His arrival brought happiness, especially to children who loved his goodies. The baker symbolizes the warmth and simplicity of Goan village life.

Q2. What does the story tell us about the Portuguese influence in Goa?

Ans. The story shows that even after the Portuguese left, their traditions remained like the baking of bread. The presence of bakers and the use of Portuguese words reflect their cultural impact on Goan life.VBQ
What values do we learn from the baker’s life?
Ans. We learn the values of hard work, dedication, and service to the community. The baker performed his duty sincerely and happily, teaching us to respect every profession.

How does the story encourage respect for traditional occupations?
Ans. The story reminds us that old professions like baking are part of our heritage and deserve respect. Every job has dignity and contributes to society in some way.

HOTS Questions & Answers

Q1. Why is Coorg called “a piece of heaven”?
Ans. Coorg is called “a piece of heaven” because of its lush green hills, misty weather, coffee plantations, and beautiful natural surroundings. The author’s description makes it sound peaceful and divine.

Q2. What does the author admire about the Coorg people?
Ans. The author admires their bravery, hospitality, and pride in their culture. They are disciplined and courageous, with many serving in the Indian Army.

VBQ (Value-Based Questions)

Q1. What values of life can we learn from the people of Coorg?
Ans. The people of Coorg teach us courage, friendliness, and respect for nature. Their simple lifestyle and bravery inspire us to live with honesty and pride in our identity.

Q2. How does Coorg reflect the unity in diversity of India?
Ans. Coorg’s mix of cultures — possibly Greek or Arab ancestry — shows how India’s diversity is its strength. People of different origins live together harmoniously, reflecting India’s unity.

Part 3: Tea from Assam — by Arup Kumar Datta

HOTS Questions & Answers

Q1. What does Rajvir’s excitement about visiting Assam tell you about his character?
Ans. Rajvir is curious, intelligent, and eager to learn. His excitement shows his love for knowledge and his interest in exploring things practically rather than just reading about them.

Q2. What role does tea play in connecting different cultures and countries?
Ans. Tea is a global beverage that connects people worldwide. It originated in China but became a major part of Indian culture, showing how trade and culture blend across borders.

VBQ (Value-Based Questions)

Q1. What value does Rajvir display during his visit to Assam?
Ans. Rajvir shows curiosity, enthusiasm, and appreciation for nature and learning. His attitude encourages us to be observant and to take pride in our country’s natural gifts.

Q2. What message does the story convey about India’s heritage?
Ans. The story highlights India’s rich natural and cultural heritage. It teaches us to respect our agricultural traditions and feel proud of India’s contribution to the world.

 

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