The Tunnel
Introduction to the Story
- The story is about Suraj, a young boy who loves adventure.
- Suraj visits a jungle tunnel to watch a steam train pass through.
- The tunnel is in a quiet jungle with tall evergreen trees.
- Suraj meets Sunder Singh, a watchman who looks after the tunnel.
- The story shows Suraj’s curiosity and his friendship with Sunder Singh.
- It also describes a brave moment when they face a leopard in the tunnel.
Setting and Atmosphere
- The jungle is silent and still, with heat waves shimmering.
- The railway lines look like black serpents going into the tunnel.
- The tunnel is dark, damp, and sticky inside, with smoke from the train.
- The jungle comes alive at night with sounds like barking deer and foxes.
- The watchman’s hut is near the tunnel, with marigolds and a vegetable patch.
- The atmosphere is calm during the day but mysterious at night.
Suraj’s Adventure
- Watching the Train
- Suraj cycles from town to a village and walks to the tunnel.
- He waits to see the steam train come out of the tunnel.
- The train looks like a green, black, and gold dragon, showering sparks.
- It roars through the jungle, making trees flinch from the noise.
- Suraj steps back as hot steam hits his face, showing the train’s power.
- Walking Through the Tunnel
- After the train passes, Suraj walks into the tunnel to explore it.
- The tunnel gets pitch dark, and he sees only a small circle of light ahead.
- He sees a bat and a lizard inside but finds nothing else to do.
- Suraj comes out dazzled by the bright light outside.
- He thinks he sees an animal on the hillside, a flash of orange and gold.
- Meeting Sunder Singh
- Suraj meets Sunder Singh, the watchman, near his hut.
- Sunder Singh calls the tunnel “his” and says he lent it to the Government.
- He tells Suraj the animal was a leopard that visits every month.
- Sunder Singh invites Suraj to see the night train and offers to take him home.
- Suraj feels curious and excited to join Sunder Singh later.
- Nighttime Leopard Encounter
- Suraj returns in the evening to see the night train.
- Sunder Singh makes tea, and they hear birds like tailorbirds and seven sisters.
- At dusk, the jungle makes strange sounds, like creaking trees and a nightjar.
- Sunder Singh hears a sawing sound and says a leopard is in the tunnel.
- He decides to drive the leopard out to save it from the coming train.
- Suraj is scared but joins Sunder Singh, who takes an axe for safety.
- They shout together, and the leopard, startled, runs away.
- They walk the tunnel to make sure it’s clear, and the train passes safely.
- Suraj’s Train Journey
- A week later, Suraj travels on the night train with his father to Delhi.
- His father is busy with accounts, but Suraj looks out into the dark.
- As the train nears the tunnel, Suraj sees Sunder Singh’s lamp.
- He can’t see Sunder Singh but knows his friend is there.
- Suraj thinks of Sunder Singh as a firefly, lighting the way for trains and leopards.
Sunder Singh’s Role
- Watchman’s Duties
- Sunder Singh checks the tunnel daily to keep it clear of obstacles.
- If all is well, he takes a nap; if not, he waves a red flag to slow the train.
- At night, he uses an oil lamp to inspect the tunnel.
- He hangs the lamp at his hut if all is safe, or waves it if there’s danger.
- His job is imp to keep trains safe in the jungle.
- Connection to the Jungle
- Sunder Singh has lived near the tunnel for many years.
- He knows the jungle sounds, like foxes and nightjars, and isn’t scared.
- He calls the leopard “his” and says it’s not dangerous to them.
- He feels safer in the jungle than in town, where a bus almost hit him.
- His life is part of the jungle, showing his comfort with nature.
- Friendship with Suraj
- Sunder Singh is friendly and welcomes Suraj to his hut.
- He shares tea and stories, making Suraj feel comfortable.
- He trusts Suraj to join him in the tunnel to face the leopard.
- Their friendship grows through shared adventure and trust.
- Sunder Singh’s kindness makes him a mentor to Suraj.
Themes and Symbolism
- Adventure
- Suraj’s trip to the tunnel and facing the leopard show his love for adventure.
- The train is a symbol of excitement, like a dragon in his dreams.
- The tunnel represents the unknown, which Suraj bravely explores.
- Courage
- Suraj joins Sunder Singh to face the leopard, despite his fear.
- Sunder Singh calmly handles the leopard, showing his bravery.
- Their actions highlight courage in dangerous situations.
- Friendship
- Suraj and Sunder Singh form a bond despite their age difference.
- Their shared experience in the tunnel strengthens their friendship.
- Sunder Singh’s lamp is a symbol of his care for Suraj and others.
- Nature vs. Man
- The jungle is quiet, but the train disturbs it with noise and smoke.
- After the train passes, the jungle takes back the cutting.
- Sunder Singh lives in harmony with the jungle, unlike the disruptive train.
Let us discuss
- 1. Suraj compares the train to a magical creature. Pick the phrases that convey the meaning.
- Suraj calls the train a “green, black, and gold dragon.”
- He describes it as a “beautiful monster out of his dreams.”
- It “roars a challenge to the jungle,” showing its powerful, magical nature.
- These phrases make the train seem like a mythical creature.
- 2. Suraj knew that the train was close by because
- Suraj heard the shrill whistle of the engine from a distance.
- He also heard a sound like distant thunder from the tunnel.
- These sounds told him the train was coming through the hill.
- 3. What did Suraj see inside the tunnel?
- Suraj saw a bat flying past inside the tunnel.
- He also saw a lizard scuttling between the railway lines.
- The tunnel was dark, damp, and sticky, with smoke from the train.
- There was nothing else to see or do inside.
- 4. Select the correct option. What does Sunder Singh convey about the tunnel?
- He says that he has lent it to the Government.
- Sunder Singh calls the tunnel “his” because he looks after it alone.
- He means no one else wants to care for it, so he feels it’s his own.
- The correct option is: he has lent it to the Government.
- 5. The watchman has created a system through which he informs the locomotive driver about any danger in the tunnel. The following flow chart shows this system. Refer to the text and complete the flow chart.
- Step 1: Sunder Singh walks the length of the tunnel to check for obstacles.
- Step 2: If all is well, he returns to his hut and takes a nap.
- Step 3: If something is wrong, he walks back up the line.
- Step 4: He waves a red flag during the day to slow the train.
- Step 5: At night, he waves his oil lamp to warn the driver.
- Step 6: If all is safe, he hangs the lamp at his hut and sleeps.
- 6. Sunder Singh knew that the leopard was in the tunnel because
- Sunder Singh heard a rhythmic sawing sound in the tunnel.
- He also heard a padded footfall and a rustle of dry leaves.
- These sounds told him the leopard was inside, near the tracks.
- 7. Why do you think Suraj was unable to do any shouting in the tunnel in the beginning?
- (i) He was afraid of the leopard.
- Suraj’s throat was dry, showing he was scared to shout.
- He followed Sunder Singh closely, feeling nervous about the leopard.
- The correct option is (i) He was afraid of the leopard.
- 8. What made the leopard disappear into the darkness?
- Suraj and Sunder Singh shouted loudly together in the tunnel.
- Their voices echoed, making it sound like many people were there.
- The leopard, unsure and startled, turned and ran into the darkness.
- The loud noise and light from the lamp scared it away.
- 9. How did Suraj know Sunder Singh was at the tunnel?
- Suraj saw Sunder Singh’s oil lamp as the train neared the tunnel.
- He couldn’t see Sunder Singh but knew the lamp meant he was there.
- The lamp’s light was a sign of Sunder Singh’s presence.
- This happened when Suraj was on the train with his father.
- 10. Why did Suraj’s father take him along to Delhi?
- Suraj’s father was going to Delhi for a business trip.
- He didn’t know where Suraj went most of the time.
- He wanted Suraj to learn about his business.
- So, he decided to take Suraj along to teach him.
Let us think and reflect
- I Read the following lines and answer the questions that follow.
- 1. Suraj had to turn and look back at the opening to reassure himself that there was still daylight outside…
- (i) Write whether the following statement is true or false.
- Statement: Suraj looked back at the opening of the tunnel to check if the train was coming.
- False. Suraj looked back to reassure himself there was still daylight, not to check for a train.
- (ii) Choose the correct option to complete the sentence given below.
- Suraj did not stop anywhere in the tunnel because
- A. there was nothing to see in the tunnel
- Suraj found nothing to do or see, so he kept walking.
- The tunnel was dark and empty, except for a bat and lizard.
- The correct option is A. there was nothing to see in the tunnel.
- (iii) What does the sentence ‘Till then, the cutting belonged to the jungle again’ mean?
- It means the jungle takes control of the cutting after the train passes.
- The train’s noise and smoke disturb the jungle briefly.
- Once the train is gone, the jungle becomes quiet and natural again.
- The cutting feels like part of the jungle until the next train.
- (iv) Suraj wanted to know the inside of the tunnel. What character trait of Suraj is highlighted here?
- This shows Suraj’s curiosity.
- He walks through the dark tunnel just to understand it.
- His desire to explore the unknown highlights his adventurous nature.
- (i) Write whether the following statement is true or false.
- 2. “The train will soon be here,” said Suraj…
- (i) What was the watchman’s concern?
- Sunder Singh was worried the leopard would be hit by the train.
- He wanted to drive it out to save its life.
- He felt responsible for protecting the animals in the jungle.
- (ii) Complete the sentence with a suitable reason.
- Sunder Singh was sure that the leopard in the tunnel would not attack him and Suraj because
- He knew the leopard well from seeing it many times.
- The leopard only attacked goats and stray dogs, not people.
- Sunder Singh trusted it would not harm them.
- (iii) Select the sentences that are true from those given below.
- A. Suraj wants to see the leopards in the jungle. False. Suraj is scared, not eager to see leopards.
- B. Suraj is concerned about Sunder Singh’s safety. False. Suraj is worried about his own safety.
- C. The leopard in the tunnel attacks goats and stray dogs. True. Sunder Singh says it has a weakness for them.
- D. Sunder Singh wants to protect Suraj. True. He tells Suraj to stay behind but allows him to come safely.
- E. Sunder Singh knows all about the animals in the jungle. False. He knows the leopard, not all animals.
- Correct options: C and D.
- (iv) Choose the correct option to complete the sentence.
- Sunder Singh decides to take his axe with him. This tells us that he was
- B. cautious
- He takes the axe for safety, even though he trusts the leopard.
- This shows he is careful and prepared for any danger.
- The correct option is B. cautious.
- (i) What was the watchman’s concern?
- 1. Suraj had to turn and look back at the opening to reassure himself that there was still daylight outside…
- II Answer the following questions.
- 1. What does Sunder Singh convey by saying that he has lent his tunnel to the Government?
- Sunder Singh means he feels ownership of the tunnel.
- He says no one else wants to care for it, so it’s “his.”
- He lent it to the Government, meaning he allows them to use it.
- It shows his pride in his duty and his lonely role.
- 2. According to Sunder Singh, “It is safer in the forest than in the town”. What example does Sunder Singh give to support his opinion? What does this tell us about him?
- Sunder Singh says a bus almost ran him over in town.
- This shows he finds the town dangerous, unlike the jungle.
- It tells us he is comfortable in the jungle, where he feels safe.
- It also shows he is out of place in busy town life.
- 3. Sunder Singh has become part of the jungle life. Support the view with a suitable reason.
- Sunder Singh knows the jungle’s sounds, like foxes and nightjars.
- He is familiar with the leopard and calls it “his.”
- He lives alone near the tunnel, tending a garden, blending with nature.
- This shows he is at home in the jungle, living as part of it.
- 4. Sunder Singh and Suraj form an unlikely friendship. What draws them together?
- Their shared love for the tunnel and trains brings them closer.
- Sunder Singh’s kindness and stories make Suraj feel welcome.
- Their adventure with the leopard builds trust and respect.
- Despite their age difference, they connect through curiosity and bravery.
- 5. Why is Sunder Singh referred to as a ‘firefly’?
- Sunder Singh is called a firefly because his lamp lights the dark.
- His lamp guides trains and ensures safety, like a firefly’s glow.
- He stays in the jungle, helping travelers and animals quietly.
- The term shows his small but imp role in the vast jungle.
- 6. Do you think Suraj is an adventure-loving boy? Give reasons.
- Yes, Suraj loves adventure.
- He cycles to the jungle alone to see the train, showing boldness.
- He walks through the dark tunnel to explore it, despite the unknown.
- He joins Sunder Singh to face the leopard, proving his courage.
- These actions show his curiosity and thrill for adventure.
- 1. What does Sunder Singh convey by saying that he has lent his tunnel to the Government?
Let us learn
- I Complete the following sentences using the suitable phrases from the text.
- The phrases describe vivid scenes and sounds in the story.
- We could hear the approaching engine of the train long before it came into view at the station.
- The street was completely dark but the little boy walked to his house guided by the flickering lights from the houses.
- The sawing sound from the carpenter’s workshop grew louder every hour.
- From the balcony, she watched the drifting smoke from her neighbour’s chimney float across the backyard.
- The phrases describe vivid scenes and sounds in the story.
- II The text has many ‘sound words’. Match the words with their meanings.
- Sound words make the story lively by describing noises.
- Column 1 Column 2 1. creaking (ii) making a long low sound when a door or wooden object moves 2. chatter (iii) repeated series of short high sounds made by birds or monkeys 3. hissing (i) making a noise like a long ‘s’ sound 4. rustle (v) a soft low, dry sound made by the movement of things such as leaves, paper, etc. 5. puffing (iv) blowing with short, quick blasts, as the wind
- Sentences:
- The steam engine reached the station puffing black smoke into the sky.
- Suddenly the snake raised its hood and made a hissing noise.
- When the wind blew, I heard the creaking of the wooden roof.
- He heard a rustle of leaves behind him when he was walking in the woods.
- I get disturbed by the continuous chatter of the monkeys in the neighbourhood.
- III Read what the watchman Sunder Singh did regularly at the tunnel as part of his duty.
- 1. Why is the word ‘would’ used here?
- (iii) to talk about a habit in the past
- ‘Would’ describes Sunder Singh’s repeated actions in the past.
- It shows his routine of checking the tunnel daily and at night.
- The correct option is (iii) to talk about a habit in the past.
- 2. Complete the sentences using ‘used to’ or ‘would’.
- (i) When I was a child we used to live in a village near a forest.
- (ii) Back then, we would grow vegetables in our back garden.
- (iii) Every day we would get up early and go for a walk.
- (iv) The weather in summer used to be really nice.
- (v) There was a lake near the house and we would go there every Sunday for a picnic.
- (vi) Winters used to be rather cold.
- (vii) In the evenings, my father would tell us incredible stories and we would listen with admiration.
- 1. Why is the word ‘would’ used here?
- IV We use punctuation marks to make our writing clear.
- Colon (:) Introduces a list or explanation, like items needed or a goal.
- Semicolon (;) Connects two related clauses without a conjunction.
- Punctuated paragraph:
- We explored the busy by-lanes of Charminar, the heart of Hyderabad; it was an exciting day.
- We wanted to do a few things: buy bangles, taste biryani, and purchase pearl earrings, which are special to this area.
- As we walked through the lanes, we saw stalls selling spices, clothes, and jewellery; the market was full of colours.
- We visited some famous spots: Charminar, Golconda Fort, Salar Jung Museum, and Chowmahalla Palace; each place was beautiful.
Travel
Introduction to the Poem
- The poem Travel is by Edna St. Vincent Millay.
- It describes the speaker’s longing to travel by train.
- The speaker hears the train’s whistle and imagines its sparks, even far away.
- Despite having good friends, the speaker wants to take any train, anywhere.
- The poem shows a love for adventure and the excitement of travel.
- It uses vivid imagery to make the train feel alive and thrilling.
Stanza Analysis
- Stanza 1: Daytime Longing
- The railroad is far, and the day is noisy with voices.
- The speaker hears the train’s whistle shrieking, though no train passes.
- This shows the speaker’s strong desire to travel, even during a busy day.
- The train’s sound stands out, pulling the speaker’s thoughts to it.
- Stanza 2: Nighttime Imagination
- At night, when it’s quiet, no train passes, but the speaker imagines it.
- The speaker sees red cinders in the sky and hears the engine steaming.
- This shows the speaker’s dreams are filled with the train’s image.
- The train feels real in the speaker’s mind, even in the stillness.
- Stanza 3: Desire to Travel
- The speaker loves their friends and feels warm toward them.
- But the speaker would take any train, no matter where it goes.
- This shows the speaker’s longing for adventure is stronger than staying with friends.
- The train represents freedom and new experiences.
Literary Devices
- Imagery
- The poem uses descriptive words to create mental pictures.
- Examples: “day is loud,” “cinders red on the sky,” “engine steaming.”
- These make the train’s sound and sight vivid and exciting.
- Personification
- The train’s whistle is described as “shrieking.”
- This makes the whistle sound alive, like it’s calling the speaker.
- It adds to the train’s thrilling and adventurous feel.
- Repetition
- The line “there isn’t a train goes by” is repeated in all stanzas.
- It highlights the speaker’s constant thoughts about trains.
- It shows how the train dominates the speaker’s mind, day and night.
- Rhyme Scheme
- The poem follows an AABB rhyme scheme.
- Each stanza has pairs of rhyming lines, like “away-day” and “knowing-going.”
- This creates a musical flow, making the poem easy to read.
Themes
- Adventure
- The train symbolizes adventure and new possibilities.
- The speaker wants to travel anywhere, showing a love for exploration.
- The poem captures the excitement of going to unknown places.
- Longing
- The speaker longs for travel, even with good friends nearby.
- The train’s whistle and cinders show a deep desire to leave.
- This longing makes the speaker restless, dreaming of journeys.
- Contrast
- The poem contrasts the busy day with the quiet night.
- In both, the train’s presence is felt, showing its importance.
- Friends are loved, but the urge to travel is stronger.
Let us discuss
- I The main ideas of each stanza of the poem are given below.
- At night, the speaker imagines the train and hears its engine in the quiet. Stanza 2
- The speaker feels a strong desire to take any train, no matter where it goes. Stanza 3
- The speaker hears the train whistle during the day, even though the train is far away. Stanza 1
- II Read the poem and underline the rhyming words in each stanza.
- Stanza (i): away-day; speaking-shrieking
- Stanza (ii): by-sky; dreaming-steaming
- Stanza (iii): make-take; knowing-going
- III Identify the rhyme scheme of the poem from the options given below.
- The rhyme scheme is AABB.
- Each stanza has two pairs of rhyming lines.
- For example, “away” rhymes with “day,” and “speaking” with “shrieking.”
- The correct option is 1. AABB.
- IV Identify the word in the poem that personifies the whistle of the train.
- The word is “shrieking.”
- It makes the whistle sound like a living thing crying out.
- This gives the train a lively, calling presence.
- V Tone refers to the attitude the poet has about the poem.
- The poet’s tone is excited, curious, and enthusiastic.
- The speaker is thrilled by the train’s whistle and cinders.
- The desire to take any train shows curiosity for new places.
- The tone is also joyful, as the speaker dreams of adventure.
- VI Select the words that tell us what the train symbolises for the poet.
- The train symbolizes adventure and opportunities.
- The speaker wants to take any train, showing a love for exploration.
- The train represents chances to see new places and experiences.
- Correct options: 2. adventure, 4. opportunities.
- VII Complete the following by choosing the correct option.
- The poet repeats the line, ‘…there isn’t a train goes by,’ in all three stanzas to highlight the speaker’s fascination with the train.
- It shows the train is always on the speaker’s mind.
- The repetition emphasizes the longing for travel.
- The correct option is: highlight the speaker’s fascination with the train.
- VIII The poem contrasts the busy day with the stillness of the night. What is the common factor in these?
- The common factor is the speaker’s thoughts about the train.
- During the noisy day, the speaker hears the train’s whistle.
- In the quiet night, the speaker imagines its cinders and engine.
- The train’s presence ties both times together.
- IX Imagery is a literary device that uses descriptive language.
- Imagery phrases in the poem:
- “day is loud” – shows a noisy, bustling day.
- “whistle shrieking” – makes the train’s sound sharp and alive.
- “cinders red on the sky” – paints a vivid picture of sparks.
- “engine steaming” – suggests the train’s power and movement.
- These phrases create clear images of the train and its allure.
- Imagery phrases in the poem:
Let us think and reflect
- I Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.
- 1. My heart is warm with the friends I make, And better friends I’ll not be knowing…
- (i) Choose the suitable option to complete the following.
- The line ‘My heart is warm’ refers to a heart that is
- B. full of love
- The speaker feels affection and happiness with friends.
- The correct option is B. full of love.
- (ii) What does the speaker say about her current friends?
- The speaker says her friends are wonderful.
- She feels warm and happy with them.
- She believes she won’t find better friends.
- (iii) What does the line ‘better friends I’ll not be knowing’ suggest about the speaker’s feelings toward their current friends?
- It suggests the speaker deeply values her friends.
- She thinks they are the best and irreplaceable.
- It shows her loyalty and affection for them.
- (iv) Complete the following suitably.
- The tone of the speaker in these lines is grateful.
- She appreciates her friends and feels thankful for them.
- The tone is also content, as she is happy with her friendships.
- (i) Choose the suitable option to complete the following.
- 1. My heart is warm with the friends I make, And better friends I’ll not be knowing…
- II Answer the following questions.
- 1. What does the phrase ‘cinders red on the sky’ tell us about the train at night?
- It describes the train’s sparks glowing red against the dark sky.
- The cinders make the train seem powerful and magical.
- It shows the speaker’s vivid imagination of the train at night.
- 2. What is the significance of the repeated references to the train’s whistle?
- The whistle’s “shrieking” shows the train’s strong presence.
- It calls to the speaker, sparking her desire to travel.
- The repetition shows the train is always on her mind.
- It symbolizes adventure and the pull of new places.
- 3. What does the line ‘no matter where it’s going’ reveal about the speaker’s attitude towards travel?
- It shows the speaker loves travel for its own sake.
- She doesn’t care about the destination, only the journey.
- It reveals her adventurous and open-minded nature.
- She is eager to explore anywhere the train takes her.
- 4. Do you think the poet actually sees and hears the train? Why or why not?
- No, the poet doesn’t actually see or hear the train.
- The train is far away, and no trains pass by day or night.
- The speaker imagines the whistle and cinders, showing it’s in her mind.
- Her longing for travel creates these vivid images, not real events.
- 1. What does the phrase ‘cinders red on the sky’ tell us about the train at night?
Let us learn
- I Read the expressions from the poem given in Column 1.
- Column 1 Column 2 1. miles away (v) The distance of the train from the speaker 2. cinders red (iv) The glow of the train’s sparks lighting up the night sky 3. heart is warm (i) The speaker’s affection for their friends 4. day is loud (iii) The busy and noisy atmosphere during the day 5. engine steaming (ii) The fast and powerful movement of the train
- Sentences:
- After meeting her old friend, her heart is warm with the joy of rekindled memories.
- As I arrived at the railway station I could hear the engine steaming.
- The marketplace is bustling, and the day is loud with the chatter of shoppers and vendors.
- The bonfire glowed brightly, throwing cinders red into the dark night sky.
- The sound of a train could still be heard as the evening grew quiet miles away.
- II The poet uses the word ‘shrieking’ to tell us about the sound of the train’s whistle.
- Column 1 Column 2 1. shouting loudly, often in anger or excitement (iv) yelling 2. crying out in fear or excitement (vii) screaming 3. crying loudly with grief or sorrow (vi) bawling 4. making a high-pitched, piercing sound (iii) screeching 5. calling out loudly, often in a casual or informal way (ii) hollering 6. crying softly in a low, broken voice (v) whimpering 7. crying loudly and uncontrollably (i) wailing
- Paragraph:
- The street was filled with a variety of sounds.
- A shopkeeper was yelling to attract customers.
- A child nearby was hollering at his friend to wait for him.
- From the other side of the road, a toddler was wailing uncontrollably after dropping his ice cream.
- His mother tried to calm him as he began whimpering softly.
- In the background, someone’s loud screaming voice added to the bustling noise of the busy evening.
Let us write
- I A diamante poem is a poem that is shaped like a diamond.
- It connects two ideas using adjectives and -ing words.
- Example for reading and adventure:
- Reading
- Quiet, thoughtful
- Imagining, learning, exploring
- Books open worlds, journeys begin
- Climbing, seeking, discovering
- Thrilling, bold
- Adventure
- II We come across many interesting characters while travelling.
- Describe a character like Sunder Singh.
- Name: Sunder Singh.
- Appearance: An older man, likely with simple clothes, living in a hut.
- Actions: Checks the tunnel, tends his garden, and faces leopards bravely.
- Personality: Kind, calm, and wise, comfortable in the jungle.
- Favourite Incident: When he and Suraj shout to scare the leopard, showing teamwork.
- This description captures his unique role and bond with Suraj.
- Describe a character like Sunder Singh.
Conquering the Summit
Introduction to the Story
- The story is about Arunima Sinha, a brave woman from Uttar Pradesh.
- Arunima was a volleyball player who faced a life-changing accident.
- She lost one leg but decided to climb Mount Everest with a prosthetic leg.
- In 2013, she became the first Indian female amputee to reach the summit.
- She later climbed seven peaks across the world, showing great courage.
- Her story is about hope, determination, and never giving up.
Arunima’s Background
- Arunima comes from Ambedkar Nagar, a small district.
- Her father was an army engineer, and her mother a health supervisor.
- Her family loved sports, and Arunima played volleyball at a national level.
- She studied law and wanted a job in the paramilitary forces.
- Her life was active and full of passion for sports before the accident.
The Accident and Recovery
- On 11 April 2011, Arunima had a train accident that changed her life.
- The accident was painful, and she nearly died but survived.
- Her leg was amputated, and she got a prosthetic leg.
- She went through physiotherapy to learn to walk again.
- During recovery, she read about Mount Everest and decided to climb it.
- This decision showed her strong will to overcome her challenges.
Training and Preparation
- Arunima took a mountaineering course at the Nehru Institute in Uttarkashi.
- She trained for 18 months, working hard to get strong.
- She met Bachendri Pal, the first Indian woman to climb Everest.
- Bachendri gave her confidence, saying she had already won inside.
- Arunima’s training was tough but imp for her goal.
Climbing Mount Everest
- On 21 May 2013, after 52 tiring days, Arunima reached Everest’s summit.
- She felt pride, relief, and a huge sense of achievement.
- She showed the Indian flag and left a photo of Swami Vivekananda.
- Her climb was a big victory, proving she could do the impossible.
- She became an inspiration as the first Indian female amputee to do this.
Seven Summits Achievement
- Arunima didn’t stop at Everest; she aimed to climb seven peaks.
- By 2016, she climbed peaks in Europe, Africa, Australia, South America, and North America.
- In 2019, she climbed Mount Vinson in Antarctica.
- She became the first female amputee to complete the Seven Summits.
- Her journey showed her endless determination and strength.
Awards and Recognition
- In 2015, Arunima received the Padma Shri, a high civilian award.
- She also got the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award.
- She was named the National Award for Best Female Mountaineer.
- These awards honored her courage and achievements.
- They showed how her story inspired many people.
Themes
- Resilience
- Arunima faced a terrible accident but never gave up.
- She turned her loss into a chance to achieve greatness.
- Her story shows how to recover from tough times.
- Determination
- Arunima trained hard and climbed Everest despite challenges.
- She kept going to complete the Seven Summits.
- Her focus on goals shows strong determination.
- Inspiration
- Arunima’s story motivates others to chase their dreams.
- Bachendri Pal’s words and her own actions inspired her.
- She is a beacon of hope for people facing difficulties.
Let us think and reflect
- I Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.
- Bachendri Pal instilled confidence in Arunima and said…
- 1. Complete the sentence with a suitable reason.
- Bachendri Pal said that Arunima had conquered the Everest within her because
- Arunima decided to climb Everest with a prosthetic leg.
- This showed her inner strength and courage, despite her challenges.
- Bachendri meant Arunima’s determination was already a victory.
- 2. How might Arunima have felt after what Bachendri Pal told her?
- Arunima likely felt encouraged and confident.
- Bachendri’s words made her believe in her own strength.
- She probably felt motivated to keep training and climb Everest.
- 3. Choose a phrase from the extract which shows that reaching the summit of Mount Everest was tiring.
- The phrase is “52 exhausting days.”
- It shows the climb was long and physically draining.
- It highlights the effort Arunima put into reaching the summit.
- 4. Select the correct option to complete the sentence.
- After her success when Arunima felt ‘an overwhelming sense of achievement’, she would have most likely said,
- (iv) I finally realised my dream
- This reflects her joy and pride in reaching the summit.
- The correct option is (iv) I finally realised my dream.
- 1. Complete the sentence with a suitable reason.
- Bachendri Pal instilled confidence in Arunima and said…
- II Answer the following questions.
- 1. What did Arunima do in order to fulfill her ambition of conquering Mount Everest?
- Arunima took a mountaineering course at the Nehru Institute.
- She trained for 18 months to build strength and skills.
- She sought guidance from Bachendri Pal, who inspired her.
- She worked hard with her prosthetic leg to prepare for the climb.
- 2. Arunima is a beacon of hope and resilience. Support this statement with evidence from the text.
- After losing her leg, Arunima decided to climb Everest, showing resilience.
- She trained rigorously for 18 months, proving her determination.
- She became the first Indian female amputee to summit Everest.
- She climbed seven peaks, inspiring others with her courage.
- Her story motivates people to overcome their own challenges.
- 3. Arunima’s autobiography is titled Born Again on the Mountain: A Story of Losing Everything and Finding It Back. Why do you think this title is appropriate?
- The title fits because Arunima lost her leg and her old life in the accident.
- She was “born again” by finding new purpose in mountaineering.
- The mountain (Everest) gave her a new identity and strength.
- She found back her confidence and achieved great things.
- The title captures her journey from loss to triumph.
- 4. Arunima says, “Failure is when we don’t have goals worthy enough.” What would be the most likely impact of this statement on readers?
- It inspires readers to set big, meaningful goals.
- It suggests failure comes from not aiming high enough.
- Readers may feel motivated to chase their dreams bravely.
- It encourages them to see challenges as chances to grow.
- Arunima’s words push readers to believe in their potential.
- 1. What did Arunima do in order to fulfill her ambition of conquering Mount Everest?
Let us learn
- I Read the underlined phrases in sentences (i)-(v).
- Phrase Meaning (i) exhausting days periods of time filled with tiring and demanding activities (ii) heartfelt attempts genuine, sincere efforts (iii) life-altering event an incident or experience that significantly changes a person’s life (iv) mental fortitude strength of mind (v) beacon of hope a source of inspiration or encouragement
- II Complete the following table by filling in the gaps.
- Nouns Adjectives Verbs (present) Adverbs determination determined determine determinedly relief relieved relieve relievedly inspiration inspiring inspire inspiringly resistance resistant resist resistantly success successful succeed successfully
- III Study the highlighted words in the following sentences.
- Articles (‘a’, ‘an’, ‘the’) are imp for clear writing.
- ‘A’ and ‘an’ are used for non-specific things; ‘the’ for specific ones.
- ‘An’ is used before vowel sounds, ‘a’ before consonant sounds.
- 1. Fill in the blanks with ‘a’, ‘an’, ‘the’.
- We planned (i) an adventurous trip to (ii) a remote island.
- (iii) The island was known for its beautiful landscapes and (iv) x diverse wildlife.
- On (v) the first day, we set out to explore (vi) the island’s dense jungle.
- (vii) A guide led us through (viii) x thick foliage and showed us (ix) a hidden waterfall.
- In (x) the evening, we gathered around (xi) a campfire to share stories and enjoy (xii) a meal we cooked.
- (xiii) The experience was truly unforgettable, and we felt (xiv) a connection with (xv) x nature.
- 2. Correct the error in the following sentences.
- (i) We waited for a hour → an hour (vowel sound).
- (ii) The guide insisted on an uniform jacket → a uniform jacket (consonant sound).
- (iii) Mount K2 is a second highest peak → the second highest peak (specific peak).
- (iv) A Ganga is a sacred river → The Ganga is a sacred river (specific river).
- (v) Challenges are faced by a brave → the brave (specific group).
- (vi) A North Star has guided travellers → The North Star has guided travellers (specific star).
Let us write
- Write a letter to the Principal of your school.
- Example letter for an excursion:
- Sender’s Address: 45, Rose Lane, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
- Date: 15 July 20XX
- Receiver’s Address: The Principal, Hill View School, Shimla
- Subject: Request to organise an excursion to a hill station
- Salutation: Dear Sir/Madam,
- Introduction: I am Rohan Sharma, a student of Grade 7-A.
- Expression of Interest: I love outdoor activities like trekking and exploring nature.
- Statement of Request: I request you to organise an excursion to a nearby hill station, like Kufri, for Grade 7 students.
- Details: It would help us learn about nature and bond with friends. We promise to follow safety rules.
- Complimentary Close: Yours sincerely,
- Signature Line: Rohan Sharma (Grade 7-A, Roll No. 15)
- Example letter for an excursion:
Let us explore
- I Find out more information about the following adventure sports.
- Name Area Preferred Time Equipment Required Snow skiing Snow-covered hills Winter Skis, ski suit, pole Trekking Mountains, forests Spring, Autumn, Winter Backpack, boots, pole Camping Grassy areas Spring, Autumn Tent, torch, sleeping bag River rafting Rivers Monsoon, Autumn Raft, paddle, life jacket Scuba diving Oceans, coral reefs Summer, Autumn Oxygen tank, mask, fins
- II Prepare an information booklet with fact sheets of five Indian mountaineers.
- Example fact sheet for Arunima Sinha:
- Name: Arunima Sinha
- Place of Birth: Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh
- Training Received: Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi
- Profession: Mountaineer, former volleyball player
- Sport Known For: Mountaineering
- Accomplishments: First Indian female amputee to climb Everest, completed Seven Summits, Padma Shri, Tenzing Norgay Award
- Students can research others like Bachendri Pal or Tenzing Norgay.
- Example fact sheet for Arunima Sinha:
Transcripts
- Tunnel: Let us listen
- The audio is about a treasure hunt in the City Museum.
- Route:
- Start at the Entrance Hall with an information booth.
- Go right to the Library.
- Move straight to the Art Gallery with rare paintings.
- Take the third door to the Weapons Room with swords and shields.
- Turn left to the Musical Instruments Section.
- Go to the second room left, the Auditorium, where the treasure is.
- Travel: Let us listen
- The announcement is about a trip to the National Science Centre.
- Incorrect Information:
- The trip is on 16 September (not 15 September).
- Return by 5:30 in the evening (not 5:00).
- Light refreshments will be provided (not none).
- Students cannot carry phones, but can carry a notebook and pen.
- Permission slip signed by parent (not class teacher).
- Submit by 10 September (correct).
- Mr. Mukherjee is the excursion in-charge (not Adventure Club).
- Corrected Sentences:
- The trip is on 16 September.
- Students return by 5:30 in the evening.
- Light refreshments will be provided.
- Students cannot carry phones but can carry a notebook and pen.
- Permission slip must be signed by a parent.
- Mr. Mukherjee is the excursion in-charge.
- Conquering the Summit: Let us listen
- Five speakers share views on adventure sports.
- (i) Parent: 4. Expresses concern about the risks in adventure sports – Worries about safety in rock climbing and paragliding.
- (ii) Friend: 2. Finds adventure sports thrilling and exciting – Loves the thrill and pushing limits with a trainer.
- (iii) Organiser: 7. Focuses on the availability of training and supervision – Ensures safety with checked equipment and supervision.
- (iv) School: 1. Talks about having basic activities in adventure sports – Offers safe trekking and zip-lining with precautions.
- (v) Traditionalist: 8. Finds exposure to risks unnecessary – Prefers safer sports like swimming over risky adventures.
- Extra statements: 3, 5, 6 (not used).
- Five speakers share views on adventure sports.
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