Memories of a Chota Sahib
THINK AS YOU READ
1. Briefly describe the scene observed by the author from the veranda of his bungalow on the bank of the Brahmaputra.
Ans: From the veranda of his bungalow, the author could see the wide and majestic Brahmaputra River flowing calmly. In the middle of the river stood Peacock Island. Boats moved slowly across the water, and the surrounding hills and greenery added to the natural beauty of the place. The scene was peaceful and picturesque.
2. What is the belief about the dividing channel between Peacock Island and the mainland of Guwahati?
Ans: There is a common belief that the channel of the Brahmaputra River that separates Peacock Island from the mainland of Guwahati is extremely deep. Many people believe that the bottom of the river cannot be seen at that point.
3. What does the author say about the importance of Guwahati? Is the statement true today?
Ans: The author says that Guwahati is an important town and the gateway to the northeastern region of India. It is a major center for trade, culture and communication. This statement is still true today, as Guwahati remains the most important city in Northeast India for education, business and transportation.
THINK AS YOU READ
1. What character of the North Bank of the Brahmaputra does the author refer to?
Ans: The author describes the North Bank of the Brahmaputra as a region rich in forests, rivers and wildlife. The area is known for its natural beauty and wild landscapes, making it a unique and attractive place.
2. What information does the author give us about Manas Wildlife Sanctuary?
Ans: The author mentions that Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is a famous wildlife reserve located on the North Bank of the Brahmaputra. It is known for its rich variety of animals and birds and is an important place for the conservation of wildlife.
3. Describe the author’s experience of crossing a flooded river on horseback on the North Bank of the Brahmaputra.
Ans: The author once crossed a flooded river on horseback while travelling on the North Bank of the Brahmaputra. The river was full of water and the current was strong, making the crossing difficult and risky. However, the experience was adventurous and memorable for the author.
THINK AS YOU READ
1. Relate the author’s experience of the road accident during the monsoon on the North Bank.
Ans: During the monsoon season, the roads on the North Bank became muddy and dangerous. Once, the author experienced a road accident because the road conditions were very poor. The incident showed how difficult and risky travelling in that region could be during the rainy season.
2. Relate the author’s reminiscence of the forest bungalow at Kulsi.
Ans: The author remembers staying in a forest bungalow at Kulsi. The bungalow was surrounded by forests and natural beauty. The place was quiet and peaceful, and the author enjoyed the calm atmosphere and the closeness to nature.
THINKING ABOUT LANGUAGE
1. Examples of borrowed words
(i) Assamese words used in English
Bheel
Mar boat
Cheetal
Bungalow
(ii) English words used in Assamese
School
Bus
Train
Office
Market
2. Choose the correct meaning
(a) The pug marks of the large cat were clearly traceable.
Answer: (iii) footprints
(b) The rivers were full of mahseer.
Answer: (iv) fresh water fish
(c) I once forded one of these rivers on horseback.
Answer: (ii) crossed the river without using a bridge
(d) It was an eerie spot where trees skeletons still rose out of the water.
Answer: (ii) causing a strange fear