The Martyr’s Corner
A. State whether these sentences are True or False
1. Rama liked serving women.
Ans: False
2. Rama lived in a lane behind the market.
Ans: True
3. Soda bottles were used as missiles during the riot.
Ans: True
4. Rama came in time to catch the cinema crowd after the night show.
Ans: False
B. Answer in one or two words
1. What did Rama give free with every item?
Ans: Chutney
2. Whose arm searched for the perfect duck’s egg?
Ans: Wrestler
3. Where did Rama sleep?
Ans: Pyol
4. How much did four chapatis cost?
Ans: One anna
5. Where did Rama work as a waiter?
Ans: Kohinoor Restaurant
C. Answer in a sentence or two
1. At what time did Rama wake up?
Ans: Rama woke up early in the morning when the cock crowed in the neighbouring house.
2. What did Rama sell?
Ans: He sold bondas, dosais, chapatis, chutney, duck eggs and coffee.
3. Who were Rama’s customers?
Ans: His customers included boot-polish boys, jutka drivers, beggars, and poor working people.
4. Why did the riot break out?
Ans: The riot broke out after a man was stabbed at the corner where Rama sold his food.
D. Answer briefly
1. Why did Rama’s customers like him?
Ans: Customers liked him because his food was cheap, tasty, and he served them kindly and sincerely.
2. Describe Rama’s attitude towards the boot-polish boys.
Ans: Rama felt sympathy for the boot-polish boys. He understood their hardship and wished people treated them more kindly.
3. Why did Rama shift his stall?
Ans: He had to move his stall because a memorial was built at his original place after a violent incident.
4. What did Rama’s wife do at night?
Ans: She opened the door, took his belongings, counted the money, and kept the savings safely.
E. Answer in detail
1. How did Rama’s business come to an end?
Ans: Rama’s business ended due to several reasons. First, he was forced to shift his stall from its original busy place because a memorial was built there. The new location did not attract many customers.
Secondly, competition increased as other shops began selling similar food items. This reduced his earnings. Gradually, his customers decreased, and his business suffered losses.
Due to these problems, Rama lost interest and could not continue successfully. Finally, his business came to an end.
2. Has the writer shown typical Indian life? Explain.
Ans: Yes, the writer presents a clear picture of typical Indian life. Through Rama’s daily routine, simple lifestyle, and struggles, the story reflects the life of common people.
It shows the importance of small businesses, family support, and hard work. The presence of poor workers, street life, and social issues like riots also highlight real aspects of Indian society.
Thus, the story gives a realistic and meaningful view of everyday life in India.