NCERT Solutions for Class 9 English Kaveri Chapter 3 Winds of Change & Canvas of Soil

Unit 3 of Kaveri is built around the theme of cultural heritage, traditional craftsmanship and the relationship between art and everyday life. The prose piece Winds of Change is an expository article that traces the rich history of the Indian pankha — from its origins in ancient India to its diverse regional forms and its current struggle for survival in the age of technology.

It covers pankhas from Rajasthan, Gujarat, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and several tribal communities, showing how each region has developed its own distinct style. The companion poem, Canvas of Soil by Maya Anthony, draws a beautiful extended metaphor between a garden and a painting — comparing seeds to brushstrokes, soil to a painter’s palette and each garden plot to a canvas wide.

Answer:
Yes, my grandmother uses a hand fan. We call it “pankha” in Hindi. It is made of palm leaves and bamboo.

Answer:
Shape: Round/Circular , Long and narrow , Square/Rectangular
Made of :  Bamboo/cane, Palm leaf, Moonj grass

I visited the crafts fair yesterday. It was a wonderful experience. Each indigenous artefact was an innovative creation of industrious craftspersons with its intricate design. It invoked a sense of respect for the initiatives taken by the government to showcase them.

Answer:

Answer:

1. Over time, pankhas became significant cultural goods distributed through trade routes. They were considered exotic and stylish. Although there was substantial commonality in their use across India, different villages and towns developed their own varieties of traditional pankhas. Each place developed pankhas with distinct materials or a variety of intricate designs, that set them apart from one another.
(i) State whether the following sentences is true or false.
Pankhas were one of the most popular items of commerce.
See Answer(i) True. Pankhas became significant cultural goods distributed through trade routes and were considered exotic and stylish.

(ii) Why has the word ‘traditional’ been used to describe pankhas?
See AnswerThe word ‘traditional’ has been used to describe pankhas because they have been made and used in India for centuries, passed down through generations. Each region developed its own unique variety, making them deeply rooted in local customs and culture.

(iii) Complete the following statement. The sentence ‘They were considered exotic and stylish’ is an opinion and not a fact because ______.
See AnswerThe sentence ‘They were considered exotic and stylish’ is an opinion and not a fact because it reflects the personal perception and judgment of people rather than a verifiable or measurable truth. Different people may have different views about what is exotic or stylish.

(iv) Infer one reason for commonality in the use of pankhas across India.
See AnswerOne reason for the commonality in the use of pankhas across India is that before the invention of electric fans, pankhas were the only means of getting relief from heat. Since the entire country experiences hot weather, the need for hand fans was universal across all regions.

(v) Select which one of the two statements is the correct assertion for the given reason.
Reason: Pankhas were made of indigenous materials, unique to the region, with elaborate designs.
A. Each kind of pankha could be distinguished from the other.
B. Pankhas were used be many people.
See AnswerA. Each kind of pankha could be distinguished from the other.

2. With time and the advent of technology and innovative creations, the beautiful culture of pankhas runs the risk of slowly losing its presence among Indians. Once made for personal use, over time this handicraft has transformed into a commercial business and now provides some form of livelihood to India’s artisans. The slight increase in popularity and demand is significantly factored by the different versions of the pankha being crafted.
(i) Infer one negative impact of technological advancement on pankha.
See AnswerOne negative impact of technological advancement on pankha is that with the arrival of electric fans and air conditioners, people stopped using traditional hand fans for practical purposes. This led to a decline in demand, which threatened the livelihoods of artisans and put the traditional craft at risk of disappearing.

(ii) Complete the statement with an appropriate reason. The writer refers to ‘pankhas’ not just as an object but as a ‘culture’ because __________.
See AnswerThe writer refers to ‘pankhas’ not just as an object but as a ‘culture’ because pankhas carry with them the history, artistry, traditions, and identity of the region they come from. Each pankha reflects the cultural values, materials and craftsmanship of its community, making it much more than just a functional object.

(iii) Select a line from the extract which depicts how the role of the pankha has changed over the years.
See Answer“Once made for personal use, over time this handicraft has transformed into a commercial business and now provides some form of livelihood to India’s artisans.”

(iv) List one way in which the increase in demand of pankhas might benefit artisans.
See AnswerThe increase in demand of pankhas can benefit artisans by providing them with a sustainable source of income. As more people buy pankhas, artisans can earn better wages and continue practising their traditional craft without financial difficulties.

(v) Select the factor that has contributed to the commercialisation of pankhas.
A. cultural preservation
B. economic demand
C. technological advancements
D. artisan initiative
See AnswerB. economic demand

1. How does the tittle ‘Winds of Change’ capture the essence of the chapter?
See AnswerThe title ‘Winds of Change’ is very apt and meaningful. On a literal level, it refers to the pankha which creates a breeze or wind. On a deeper level, it represents the changes that have occurred in the culture of pankha-making over time. Just as wind brings change, the chapter talks about how pankhas have changed from being personal utility items to decorative and commercial craft products. The title also hints at the need for change in attitudes to preserve this dying art form.

2. Support the following statement with any two relevant example from the chapter.
“The structure and design of pankhas are testimony to the cultural identify of the region.’
See AnswerThe statement is well supported by examples from the chapter.
First, the zardozi hand fan of Rajasthan uses glittering gold threadwork which reflects the rich and royal heritage of Rajasthan, known for its opulence and grandeur.
Second, the beads hand fan of Gujarat is covered with colourful beads and has a silver handle, which reflects Gujarat’s identity as the centre of bead craft in India and the artistic skills of its home-based women workers.
Both examples show how the design and material of each pankha clearly represent the culture and tradition of its region.

3. The chapter mentions pankhas running the risk of slowly losing their presence among Indians. Evaluate how the balance between preserving traditional craftmanship and incorporating innovative design in the creation of pankhas wil help in this regard.
See AnswerBalancing traditional craftsmanship with innovative designs is a very effective way to save the pankha culture. If artisans stick only to traditional methods, they may struggle to attract modern buyers who prefer contemporary aesthetics. On the other hand, if they completely abandon tradition, the cultural value of the pankha will be lost.
By combining both — keeping the traditional materials and techniques while adding new patterns or modern designs — artisans can appeal to a wider audience. This approach makes pankhas relevant in today’s world while also preserving their cultural roots. It creates a bridge between the past and the present, ensuring the craft survives and thrives.

4. How might initiatives such as pankha-making workshops contribute to the preservation of this traditional craft?
See AnswerPankha-making workshops can contribute to preservation in several ways. First, they spread awareness about the history, cultural significance, and artistry of pankhas among people who may not know about this craft. Second, they provide a platform for artisans to showcase their skills and connect with potential buyers, helping them earn a livelihood. Third, workshops teach younger generations the techniques of pankha-making, ensuring the knowledge is not lost. Finally, by generating public interest, these workshops can increase the commercial demand for pankhas, making the craft economically viable.

5. The writer mentions celebrating pankhas in the concluding part of the chapter. Assess how this could be beneficial to artisans and the craft.
See AnswerCelebrating pankhas is extremely beneficial both for artisans and the craft itself. When people celebrate and appreciate pankhas, they are more likely to buy them, which directly increases the income of artisans. This gives artisans a commercial platform and a sustainable livelihood. Additionally, when the craft is celebrated publicly through exhibitions and events, it gains visibility and recognition, encouraging more artisans to continue making pankhas. It also creates pride in the community about their cultural heritage. Overall, celebration leads to preservation, both economically and culturally.

6. How does the restriction of the use of pankha for decorative purposes reflect the changing cultural role of these traditional fans in modern India?
See AnswerThe shift of pankhas from functional objects to decorative items reflects how modernisation has changed Indian lifestyle and culture. With the widespread use of electric fans and air conditioners, the practical need for hand fans has reduced significantly. However, the fact that pankhas are still kept as decorative items shows that people still value them for their aesthetic and cultural significance. It reflects a bittersweet change — while pankhas are no longer a daily necessity, they are still respected as symbols of Indian heritage and craftsmanship. This shift also shows how traditional crafts often find new roles in society in order to survive.

Answer:

Some common expressions with ‘and’ have a fixed order which cannot be changed. The shortest expression comes first. For example, bread and butter (*not butter and bread)

Now, match the following meanings with the correct word pairs created above.
(i) in a difficult situation, without help or money —
(ii) the damage to object due to normal use —
(iii) accurate and detailed information —
(iv) even when there are problems or difficulties —
(v) everyone, not just a few special people —
(vi) often; on many or all occasions —
(vii) To make a quick or sudden escape —
Answer:

• sustainable livelihood
• aesthetically pleasing
• appreciating the culture

The given phrases are conventional combinations just like fixed expressions. Such combinations are called collocations.
1. Choose the appropriate word collections from the following sentences.
(i) The students have to (take/give) the English exam tomorrow.
(ii) The interviewer asked the candidate to (take/have) a seat.
(iii) My scooter (dashed against/ran into) a car.
(iv) I must (take/own) responsibility for my success.
(v) I would like to (tone up/improve) my grammar.
See Answer(i) The students have to 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 the English exam tomorrow.
(ii) The interviewer asked the candidate to 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 a seat.
(iii) My scooter 𝗿𝗮𝗻 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 a car.
(iv) I must 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 responsibility for my success.
(v) I would like to 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲 my grammar.

1. In modern times, pankhas have become traditional craft items in India.
2. Gujarat’s industrious home-based women workers have worked tirelessly in the handicraft of pankha-making.
3. Many tribes in India have adopted this handicraft.
4. Once made for personal use, this handicraft has transformed into a commercial business.
See Answer1. In modern times, pankhas 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 traditional craft items in India.
2. Gujarat’s industrious home-based women workers 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗲𝗱 tirelessly in the handicraft of pankha-making.
3. Many tribes in India 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗱𝗼𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗱 this handicraft.
4. Once for personal use, this handicraft 𝗵𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗱 into a commercial business.

Now, fill in the blanks with the present perfect form of verbs in the following paragraph. One example has been done for you.
Puppets have long fascinated (fascinate) audiences worldwide. Puppeteers (i) _________ (create) intricate characters and captivating stories with their skillful artistry. They (ii) _________ (master) the delicate movements that bring these lifeless figures to life, entertaining both children and adults. Over the years, puppetry (iii) _________(evolve), using modern technology while preserving traditional techniques. Many puppeteers (iv) _________ (pass) down their craft through generations, ensuring its continuity. They (v) _________ (perform) in theatres, on television, and at festivals, conveying important cultural narratives.
See AnswerPuppets have long fascinated audiences worldwide. Puppeteers (i) 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 intricate characters and captivating stories with their skillful artistry. They (ii) 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 the delicate movements that bring these lifeless figures to life, entertaining both children and adults. Over the years, puppetry (iii) 𝗵𝗮𝘀 𝗲𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗱, using modern technology while preserving traditional techniques. Many puppeteers (iv) 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗱 down their craft through generations, ensuring its continuity. They (v) 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗱 in theatres, on television, and at festivals, conveying important cultural narratives.

Kaveri Chapter 3 English to Hindi Translation:

The word punkha or pankha originates from the word ‘pankh’, which means feather of a bird. Pankha is used to refer to all fans, whereas the word pankhi denotes a small plumed fan used in ancient India. Evidence of the existence and use of pankhi in India can be found in Buddhist wall paintings at Ajanta. These wall paintings date back to the 2nd century CE. Other representations of the punkha can be found in embroidery work, sculptures, and carvings. In ancient times, pankhas were used in temples to fan deities. They were also used in royal courts to fan kings. Pankhas varied in size from a tiny two inch one to large ones requiring a person’s full arm strength to move them.
Hindi Translation‘पुंखा’ या ‘पंखा’ शब्द ‘पंख’ शब्द से उत्पन्न हुआ है, जिसका अर्थ है पक्षी का पंख। ‘पंखा’ शब्द का उपयोग सभी प्रकार के पंखों के लिए किया जाता है, जबकि ‘पंखी’ शब्द प्राचीन भारत में उपयोग होने वाले छोटे पंखदार पंखे को दर्शाता है। भारत में पंखी के अस्तित्व और उपयोग के प्रमाण अजंता की बौद्ध भित्ति चित्रों में मिलते हैं। ये भित्ति चित्र दूसरी शताब्दी ईसवी के हैं। पुंखा के अन्य चित्रण कढ़ाई कार्य, मूर्तियों और नक्काशियों में भी देखे जा सकते हैं। प्राचीन काल में, पंखों का उपयोग मंदिरों में देवी-देवताओं को हवा करने के लिए किया जाता था। इनका उपयोग राजदरबारों में राजाओं को हवा करने के लिए भी होता था। पंखे दो इंच के छोटे आकार से लेकर इतने बड़े आकार तक होते थे जिन्हें हिलाने के लिए पूरी भुजाओं की शक्ति लगानी पड़ती थी।

Word Meanings• Originates: उत्पन्न होना/शुरुआत होना (To have a specified beginning)
• Ancient: प्राचीन (Belonging to the very distant past)
• Deities: देवी-देवता (Gods or goddesses)
• Varied: भिन्न होना/अलग-अलग होना (To differ in size, amount, or degree)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph primarily uses the Simple Present to define terms and the Simple Past to provide historical context and evidence.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Small / Tiny: Describes the size of the pankhi or small fans.
• Plumed: Describes a fan decorated with feathers.
• Ancient: Describes the time period of India and its temples.
• Buddhist: Relates the wall paintings to the specific religion/culture.
• Two inch / Large: Quantitative adjectives describing the physical scale of the fans.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Originates / Means: Simple Present used for definitions and etymology.
• Denotes / Refers: Simple Present used to explain how words are used today.
• Can be found: Modal verb showing possibility/availability of evidence.
• Date back: Phrasal verb used to indicate the age of the paintings.
• Were used: Passive voice in the Simple Past, showing the historical function of the fans.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Back: Describes how far in time the paintings go.
• Also: Used to add an additional fact about usage in courts.
• Usually: Describes the frequency or commonality of their use (inferred).

Over time, pankhas became significant cultural goods distributed through trade routes. They were considered exotic and stylish. Although there was substantial commonality in their use across India, different villages and towns developed their own varieties of traditional pankhas. Each place developed pankhas with distinct materials or a variety of intricate designs, that set them apart from one another. Bamboo, cane, palm leaf, silk, brass, leather, and silver pankhas, with decorative beads and stones were used depending on geographies, cultures, and traditional rituals.
Hindi Translationसमय के साथ, पंखे महत्वपूर्ण सांस्कृतिक वस्तुएँ बन गए और व्यापार मार्गों के माध्यम से वितरित होने लगे। उन्हें विदेशी और फैशनेबल माना जाता था। हालाँकि पूरे भारत में उनके उपयोग में काफी समानता थी, फिर भी विभिन्न गाँवों और कस्बों ने अपनी-अपनी परंपरागत पंखों की किस्में विकसित कर लीं। प्रत्येक स्थान ने अलग-अलग सामग्री या विभिन्न प्रकार के जटिल डिज़ाइनों वाले पंखे विकसित किए, जो उन्हें एक-दूसरे से अलग बनाते थे। बाँस, बेंत, ताड़ के पत्ते, रेशम, पीतल, चमड़े और चाँदी के पंखे, सजावटी मनकों और पत्थरों के साथ, भूगोल, संस्कृतियों और पारंपरिक अनुष्ठानों के अनुसार उपयोग किए जाते थे।

Word Meanings• Exotic: अनोखा/आकर्षक (Attractive or striking because it is colorful or distant)
• Substantial: पर्याप्त/काफी (Of considerable importance or worth)
• Distinct: अलग/विशिष्ट (Recognizably different in nature)
• Intricate: जटिल/बारीक (Very complicated or detailed)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Simple Past to describe historical trends and the Present Participle to show how specific factors influenced the variety of fans.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Significant / Cultural: Describes the status of pankhas in society.
• Exotic / Stylish: Describes how they were perceived by people.
• Traditional: Describes the long-standing nature of the fans.
• Intricate / Distinct: Describes the unique and detailed designs.
• Decorative: Describes the beads and stones used for embellishment.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Became: Simple Past showing a change in status over time.
• Distributed: Passive voice showing how they moved through trade routes.
• Developed: Simple Past showing the creative growth in different regions.
• Set apart: Phrasal verb meaning to make something different or special.
• Used: Passive voice showing the application of different materials.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Over time: Adverbial phrase showing when the change happened.
• Across: Describes the geographic extent of their common use.
• Apart: Describes the state of being separate or distinct.

In modern times, the use of pankhas has been restricted to decorative purposes, and they have become traditional craft items in India. The structure of each fan reflects the cultural core of the region that crafts it. For instance, the appliqué hand fan of Rajasthan is an antique pankha made of pieces of fabric in different shapes and patterns sewn onto another cloth with the use of ornamental needlework. Furthermore, the zardozi hand fan of Rajasthan differs in its use of glittering ornate and encrusted gold threadwork. In Rajasthan, temple hand fans are popular too. These are made by engraving brass and have a long handle. The painted hand fan, a cardboard pankha featuring various images, is usually offered to gods.
Hindi Translationआधुनिक समय में, पंखों का उपयोग केवल सजावटी उद्देश्यों तक सीमित हो गया है, और वे भारत में पारंपरिक शिल्प वस्तुएँ बन गई हैं। प्रत्येक पंखे की संरचना उस क्षेत्र के सांस्कृतिक मूल को दर्शाती है जो उसे बनाता है। उदाहरण के लिए, राजस्थान का ‘अप्लिक’ हस्त पंखा एक पुरातन पंखा है जो विभिन्न आकृतियों और पैटर्न के कपड़े के टुकड़ों को दूसरे कपड़े पर सजावटी कढ़ाई से सिलकर बनाया जाता है। इसके अलावा, राजस्थान का ‘जरदोजी’ हस्त पंखा चमकीली, अलंकृत और जड़ी हुई सोने की धागे की कारीगरी के उपयोग में भिन्न है। राजस्थान में मंदिर के हस्त पंखे भी लोकप्रिय हैं। ये पीतल पर नक्काशी करके बनाए जाते हैं और इनका हत्था लंबा होता है। चित्रित हस्त पंखा, जो विभिन्न छवियों वाला एक गत्ते का पंखा है, आमतौर पर देवताओं को अर्पित किया जाता है।

Word Meanings• Appliqué: एप्लिक (A technique where pieces of fabric are sewn onto a larger piece)
• Ornamental: सजावटी (Serving as an ornament; decorative)
• Glittering: चमकता हुआ (Shining with a shimmering or sparkling light)
• Encrusted: जड़ा हुआ (Covered with a hard surface layer or ornament)
• Engraving: नक्काशी (The art of cutting designs into a hard surface)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Present Perfect to describe a change in status and the Simple Present to describe the current characteristics of various fans.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Modern / Traditional: Describes the time period and nature of the craft.
• Cultural: Describes the core or essence of the region.
• Antique / Appliqué: Describes the style and age of the Rajasthan fan.
• Ornamental / Glittering / Ornate: Describes the visual quality of the needlework and thread.
• Popular / Long / Painted: Describes the fame, physical size and type of temple fans.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Has been restricted: Present Perfect Passive showing a completed change in usage.
• Reflects / Crafts: Simple Present showing a general fact about the fans and regions.
• Sewn: Past participle used to describe the assembly of the fabric.
• Differs: Simple Present used to compare the Zardozi fan to others.
• Featuring / Offered: Present and Past participles used to describe the fans’ appearance and use.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Furthermore: Used to introduce an additional related point.
• Usually: Describes the common frequency with which cardboard fans are offered.
• Too: Used to indicate that temple fans are also popular in addition to others.

The adjoining state of Gujarat has its own indigenous take on pankhas. These hand fans are elegant pure cotton-based fans embellished with mirror work. The beads hand fan is covered with colourful beads and has a silver handle. Gujarat is the centre for bead craft in India and these dainty pankhas are commonly used as wall decorations. Kutch is recognised for its hand-stitched leather hand fans decorated with thread and wool at its seams. Gujarat’s industrious home-based women workers have worked tirelessly in the handicraft of pankha-making to produce embroidered hand fans with traditional mirror work and cross-stitch embroidery in different shapes and sizes.
Hindi Translationपड़ोसी राज्य गुजरात का पंखों पर अपना स्थानीय दृष्टिकोण है। ये हस्त पंखे शीशे के काम से सजे हुए शुद्ध सूती कपड़े से बने सुंदर पंखे हैं। मनके वाला हस्त पंखा रंगीन मनकों से ढका होता है और इसका हत्था चाँदी का होता है। गुजरात भारत में मनके शिल्प का केंद्र है और ये नाजुक पंखे आमतौर पर दीवार की सजावट के रूप में उपयोग किए जाते हैं। कच्छ अपने हाथ से सिले हुए चमड़े के हस्त पंखों के लिए जाना जाता है जो अपनी सिलाई पर धागे और ऊन से सजे होते हैं। गुजरात की परिश्रमी घर-आधारित महिला कारीगरों ने पंखा बनाने के हस्तशिल्प में अथक परिश्रम करके विभिन्न आकारों और आकृतियों में पारंपरिक शीशे के काम और क्रॉस-स्टिच कढ़ाई वाले हस्त पंखे बनाए हैं।

Word Meanings• Adjoining: सटा हुआ/बगल वाला (Next to or joined with something)
• Indigenous: स्वदेशी (Originating or occurring naturally in a particular place)
• Elegant: सुंदर/शिष्ट (Graceful and stylish in appearance)
• Embellished: सजा हुआ (Decorated by adding decorative details and features)
• Dainty: छोटा और सुंदर (Small and pretty)
• Industrious: मेहनती (Diligent and hard-working)
• Tirelessly: बिना थके (With great effort or energy)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Simple Present to describe current facts and the Present Perfect to highlight the ongoing contribution of workers.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Adjoining / Indigenous: Describes the location and origin of the state’s style.
• Elegant / Pure cotton-based: Describes the quality and material of the fans.
• Colourful / Silver: Describes the beads and the handle.
• Dainty / Hand-stitched: Describes the delicate nature and the method of making.
• Industrious / Home-based: Describes the characteristics of the women workers.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Has: Simple Present showing a state of possession or characteristic.
• Embellished: Past participle used as an adjective to describe the fan’s decoration.
• Is / Are: Simple Present used for general truths and facts.
• Recognised: Passive voice showing how Kutch is known by others.
• Have worked: Present Perfect showing an action that started in the past and continues.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Commonly: Describes how frequently the fans are used as wall decor.
• Tirelessly: Describes the intense manner in which the women work.
• Different: Describes the variety in shapes and sizes.

Artisans in Bengal make delicate pankhas from the beautiful milky-white spongy centre of the sola. The palm leaf hand fans are locally referred to as Tal Patar Pankha. They are easy to carry and are perpetually kept as an article of possession in Bengali households.
Other states in India have their own variations of fans as well. The Phadh hand fans of Uttar Pradesh are adorned with pure gold, silver zari, silk, and satin frills. The large palm leaf fans of Odisha as well as Bihar’s colourful and sturdy bamboo hand fans, are all recognised across India due to their antiquity and rarity.
Hindi Translationबंगाल के कारीगर ‘सोला’ के सुंदर दूधिया-सफ़ेद स्पंजी केंद्र से नाजुक पंखे बनाते हैं। ताड़ के पत्ते के हस्त पंखों को स्थानीय रूप से ‘ताल पातर पंखा’ कहा जाता है। वे ले जाने में आसान होते हैं और बंगाली परिवारों में हमेशा एक संपत्ति की वस्तु के रूप में रखे जाते हैं।
भारत के अन्य राज्यों की भी अपनी पंखों की किस्में हैं। उत्तर प्रदेश के ‘फड़’ हस्त पंखे शुद्ध सोने, चाँदी की जरी, रेशम और साटन की झालरों से सजे होते हैं। ओडिशा के बड़े ताड़ के पत्ते के पंखे और बिहार के रंगीन और मजबूत बाँस के हस्त पंखे, अपनी प्राचीनता और दुर्लभता के कारण पूरे भारत में पहचाने जाते हैं।

Word Meanings• Delicate: कोमल/नाजुक (Fine in structure or texture)
• Perpetually: लगातार/हमेशा (Never ending or changing)
• Adorned: सजा हुआ (Decorated or embellished)
• Frills: झालर (A decorative strip of gathered or pleated material)
• Sturdy: मजबूत (Strong and solidly built)
• Antiquity: प्राचीनता (The quality of being ancient)
• Rarity: दुर्लभता (The state or quality of being rare)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Simple Present to describe the current state and cultural significance of various regional fans.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Delicate / Beautiful: Describes the fine quality of the Bengal fans.
• Milky-white / Spongy: Describes the physical properties of the sola material.
• Easy: Describes the convenience of carrying palm leaf fans.
• Pure / Gold / Silver: Describes the high-quality materials used in Uttar Pradesh.
• Large / Colourful / Sturdy: Describes the physical scale and durability of fans in Odisha and Bihar.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Make: Simple Present showing the habitual activity of artisans.
• Referred: (Passive voice) Shows how the fans are commonly named.
• Are / Have: Simple Present used for establishing facts and ownership.
• Kept: (Passive voice) Shows the status of the fans as a household item.
• Adorned / Recognised: Past participles used as adjectives to describe decoration and status.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Locally: Describes where the name “Tal Patar Pankha” is used.
• Perpetually: Describes how long the fans are kept in households.
• Well: Used to indicate that other states also have their own versions.

Many tribes in India have adopted this handicraft to make their own versions of the handheld fan. Materials such as grass and metal are embedded into the fans using bamboo sticks and grass. Cane and palm leaves are used, with silk and brass being reserved for antique pieces of these hand fans. The use of geometrical patterns and the white ink and red background combinations have helped the tribes create multiple beautifully designed pankhas.
Hindi Translationभारत में कई जनजातियों ने इस हस्तशिल्प को अपनाकर हाथ से पकड़े जाने वाले पंखे के अपने संस्करण बनाए हैं। बाँस की लाठियों और घास का उपयोग करके पंखों में घास और धातु जैसी सामग्री जड़ी जाती है। बेंत और ताड़ के पत्तों का उपयोग किया जाता है, जबकि रेशम और पीतल को इन हस्त पंखों के पुरातन नमूनों के लिए सुरक्षित रखा जाता है। ज्यामितीय पैटर्न और सफेद स्याही तथा लाल पृष्ठभूमि के संयोजन ने जनजातियों को अनेक सुंदर डिज़ाइन वाले पंखे बनाने में मदद की है।

Word Meanings• Adopted: अपनाया (To take up or start to use)
• Handheld: हाथ में पकड़ने वाला (Small enough to be held in the hand while being used)
• Embedded: जड़ना/फंसाना (Fixed firmly and deeply in a surrounding mass)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Present Perfect to show the adoption of the craft and the Simple Present/Passive Voice to describe the construction.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Many: Describes the large number of tribes involved.
• Handheld: Describes the physical nature of the fan.
• Antique: Describes the old and valuable nature of silk and brass pieces.
• Geometrical: Describes the type of patterns used.
• Multiple / Beautifully designed: Describes the variety and quality of the tribal fans.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Have adopted: Present Perfect showing an action completed in the past with current relevance.
• Embedded / Used / Reserved: Passive voice showing how materials are treated or designated.
• Create: Simple Present showing the habitual creative output of the tribes.
• Have helped: Present Perfect showing the influence of patterns and colors on the final product.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Beautifully: Describes how the pankhas were designed.
• Multiple: (Used here as an adjective, but implies the frequency/extent of creation).

With time and the advent of technology and innovative creations, the beautiful culture of pankhas runs the risk of slowly losing its presence among Indians. Once made for personal use, over time this handicraft has transformed into a commercial business and now provides some form of livelihood to India’s artisans. The slight increase in popularity and demand is significantly factored by the different versions of the pankha being crafted.
Hindi Translationसमय के साथ और प्रौद्योगिकी तथा नवीन रचनाओं के आगमन से, पंखों की सुंदर संस्कृति धीरे-धीरे भारतीयों के बीच अपनी उपस्थिति खोने का जोखिम उठा रही है। कभी व्यक्तिगत उपयोग के लिए बनाया जाने वाला यह हस्तशिल्प, समय के साथ एक व्यावसायिक उद्योग में बदल गया है और अब भारत के कारीगरों को किसी न किसी रूप में आजीविका प्रदान करता है। लोकप्रियता और माँग में थोड़ी वृद्धि मुख्य रूप से बनाए जा रहे पंखे के विभिन्न संस्करणों के कारण है।

Word Meanings• Advent: आगमन/शुरुआत (The arrival of a notable person, thing, or event)
• Livelihood: आजीविका/रोजी-रोटी (A means of securing the necessities of life)
• Slight: थोड़ा/मामूली (Small in degree; inconsiderable)
• Factored: कारक/वजह (A circumstance, fact, or influence that contributes to a result)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Simple Present to describe a current risk and the Present Perfect to show how the craft has changed over the years.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Beautiful: Describes the cultural value of the pankhas.
• Innovative: Describes the modern types of creations.
• Personal: Describes the original, private use of the fans.
• Commercial: Describes the current business-oriented nature of the craft.
• Slight / Significant: Describes the scale of increase in demand and the impact of the factors.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Runs: Simple Present used in the phrase “runs the risk” to show a current danger.
• Losing: Present participle showing an ongoing process of disappearance.
• Has transformed: Present Perfect showing a completed change from the past to now.
• Provides: Simple Present showing the current function of the craft for artisans.
• Is factored: Passive voice showing how the demand is influenced by new versions.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Slowly: Describes the speed at which the culture is losing its presence.
• Now: Describes the current state of the handicraft as a business.
• Significantly: Describes the high degree to which the demand is influenced.

One of the first steps to preserve the essence of the craft is by celebrating pankhas, and appreciating the culture, stories, and artistry that this handicraft invokes. This allows contemporary pankha makers to demonstrate their craft and regain its popularity. It also helps provide them with a commercial platform to create a sustainable livelihood. Initiatives such as pankha-making workshops, both within and outside the handicraft exhibitions help spread awareness about the beauty and importance of this craft in India’s culture.
Hindi Translationइस शिल्प के सार को संरक्षित करने के पहले कदमों में से एक है पंखों का उत्सव मनाना और उस संस्कृति, कहानियों और कलात्मकता की सराहना करना जो यह हस्तशिल्प जागृत करता है। इससे समकालीन पंखा निर्माताओं को अपना शिल्प प्रदर्शित करने और उसकी लोकप्रियता पुनः प्राप्त करने का अवसर मिलता है। यह उन्हें एक स्थायी आजीविका बनाने के लिए एक व्यावसायिक मंच प्रदान करने में भी मदद करता है। पंखा बनाने की कार्यशालाओं जैसी पहलें, हस्तशिल्प प्रदर्शनियों के भीतर और बाहर दोनों जगह, भारत की संस्कृति में इस शिल्प की सुंदरता और महत्व के बारे में जागरूकता फैलाने में मदद करती हैं।

Word Meanings• Essence: सार/तत्व (The intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something)
• Invokes: आह्वान करना/जगाना (To call forth or cause a feeling or spirit)
• Contemporary: समकालीन/आधुनिक (Living or occurring at the same time; modern)
• Initiatives: पहल (An act or strategy intended to resolve a difficulty or improve a situation)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Simple Present and the Present Continuous to discuss current solutions and ongoing benefits for the craft.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• First: Ordinal adjective showing the sequence of steps.
• Contemporary: Describes the modern-day makers of the fans.
• Sustainable: Describes the type of income or livelihood needed.
• Commercial: Describes the type of platform being created.
• Handicraft: Describes the nature of the exhibitions.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Preserve / Celebrate: Infinitives showing the purpose of the action.
• Allows: Simple Present showing the result of the appreciation.
• Demonstrate / Regain: Infinitives showing what the makers are able to do.
• Helps: Simple Present showing the positive effect of initiatives.
• Create: Infinitive showing the goal of the commercial platform.
• Spread: Infinitive showing the goal of the workshops.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Both: Used to include two different settings (within and outside).
• Within / Outside: Adverbs of place showing where the workshops occur.
• Also: Used to add an additional benefit of the process.

Sue and Johnsy, two young artists, shared a small flat. The flat was on the third storey of an old house.
Johnsy fell very seriously ill in November. She had pneumonia. She would lie in her bed without moving, just gazing out of the window. Sue, her friend, became very worried. She sent for the doctor. Although he came every day there was no change in Johnsy’s condition.
Hindi Translationसू और जॉन्सी, दो युवा कलाकार, एक छोटे से फ्लैट में साथ रहती थीं। यह फ्लैट एक पुराने मकान की तीसरी मंजिल पर था।
जॉन्सी नवंबर में बहुत गंभीर रूप से बीमार पड़ गई। उसे निमोनिया हो गया था। वह बिना हिले-डुले बिस्तर पर लेटी रहती और केवल खिड़की से बाहर देखती रहती। उसकी सहेली सू बहुत चिंतित हो गई। उसने डॉक्टर को बुलावा भेजा। हालाँकि डॉक्टर रोज़ आते थे, लेकिन जॉन्सी की हालत में कोई बदलाव नहीं आ रहा था।

Word Meanings• Pneumonia: निमोनिया (A serious lung infection that makes it hard to breathe)
• Gazing: एकटक देखना / निहारना (Looking steadily and intently)
• Sent for: बुलवाना (To ask for someone to come, especially a doctor or professional)
• Storey: मंजिल (A floor or level of a building)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Simple Past to narrate the background story and the Past Continuous to describe ongoing actions during that time.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Young: Describes the age of the artists.
• Small / Old: Describes the size and age of the flat and the house.
• Third: Ordinal adjective showing the specific floor.
• Ill / Serious: Describes the severity of Johnsy’s health.
• Worried: Describes Sue’s emotional state.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Shared / Fell / Became: Simple Past showing completed actions in the story.
• Was: Simple Past linking verb showing the location of the flat.
• Had: Simple Past showing the possession of a disease.
• Would lie: “Would” used here to show a repeated or habitual action in the past.
• Gazing: Present participle describing an action happening while she lay in bed.
• Came: Simple Past showing the doctor’s regular visits.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Very: Describes the intensity of how ill or worried someone was.
• Seriously: Describes how ill Johnsy was.
• Every day: Describes the frequency of the doctor’s visits.
• Just: Used to show that Johnsy did nothing else but look out.

One day the doctor took Sue aside and asked her, “Is anything worrying Johnsy?”
“No,” replied Sue. “But why do you ask?”
The doctor said “Johnsy, it seems, has made up her mind that she is not going to get well. If she doesn’t want to live, medicines will not help her.”
Hindi Translationएक दिन डॉक्टर ने सू को एक तरफ ले जाकर पूछा, “क्या जॉन्सी को कोई बात परेशान कर रही है?”
“नहीं,” सू ने जवाब दिया। “लेकिन आप यह क्यों पूछ रहे हैं?”
डॉक्टर ने कहा, “जॉन्सी ने, ऐसा लगता है, यह मन बना लिया है कि वह ठीक नहीं होगी। अगर वह जीना नहीं चाहती, तो दवाइयाँ भी उसकी मदद नहीं कर सकतीं।”

Word Meanings• Aside: एक तरफ (To one side; out of the way)
• Made up her mind: मन बना लिया (To reach a decision; to be certain)
• Get well: ठीक होना (To recover from an illness)
• Seems: प्रतीत होता है (Gives the impression of being something)

Grammar AnalysisThe passage uses Direct Speech to show a conversation between the doctor and Sue, utilizing both the Simple Past and the Present Continuous.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Worrying: (Participial adjective) Describes the nature of something causing stress.
• Well: Describes the state of health Johnsy hopes to achieve.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Took / Asked / Replied / Said: Simple Past showing completed actions in the narration.
• Is worrying: Present Continuous used in the question about a current state.
• Seems / Has made up: Simple Present and Present Perfect to describe Johnsy’s current mental state.
• Is not going to get: Future intentional form showing her lack of will to recover.
• Doesn’t want: Simple Present showing her current lack of desire to live.
• Will not help: Simple Future showing the predicted result of the medicines.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Aside: Adverb of place showing where the doctor took Sue.
• No: Negative adverb used for a direct reply.
• Not: Used to negate the verbs “going” and “help.”
• Why: Interrogative adverb used to ask for a reason.

Sue tried her best to make Johnsy take an interest in things around her. She talked about clothes and fashions, but Johnsy did not respond. Johnsy continued to lie still on her bed. Sue brought her drawing-board into Johnsy’s room and started painting. To take Johnsy’s mind off her illness, she whistled while working.
Hindi Translationसू ने अपनी पूरी कोशिश की कि जॉन्सी अपने आसपास की चीज़ों में रुचि ले। उसने कपड़ों और फैशन की बातें कीं, लेकिन जॉन्सी ने कोई प्रतिक्रिया नहीं दी। जॉन्सी अपने बिस्तर पर चुपचाप लेटी रही। सू अपना ड्राइंग-बोर्ड जॉन्सी के कमरे में ले आई और चित्र बनाने लगी। जॉन्सी का ध्यान उसकी बीमारी से हटाने के लिए, वह काम करते हुए सीटी बजाती रही।

Word Meanings• Respond: प्रतिक्रिया देना/जवाब देना (To say or do something as a reaction)
• Still: शांत/स्थिर (Not moving or making a sound)
• Mind off: ध्यान हटाना (To stop thinking about something unpleasant)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Simple Past to narrate a sequence of completed actions and the Past Continuous to describe actions happening at that time.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Best: Superlative adjective describing the level of effort.
• Still: Describes Johnsy’s physical state of motionlessness.
• Drawing: (Participial adjective) Describes the type of board.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Tried / Talked / Brought / Started: Simple Past showing specific completed actions in the past.
• Respond: (Infinitive used with ‘did not’) Showing the lack of action.
• To lie: Infinitive used to show what Johnsy continued to do.
• Painting / Working: Present participles used to show the activity Sue was doing.
• Whistled: Simple Past showing an action Sue did to cheer her friend.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Around: Describes the location of the “things” Sue wanted Johnsy to notice.
• Not: Negative adverb used to show the absence of a response.
• Off: Describes the direction of moving Johnsy’s mind away from the illness.
• While: Shows two actions happening at the same time.

Suddenly Sue heard Johnsy whisper something. She quickly rushed to the bed and heard Johnsy counting backwards. She was looking out of the window and was saying, “Twelve!” After sometime she whispered “eleven”, then “ten”, then “nine”, “eight”, “seven”. Sue anxiously looked out of the window. She saw an old ivy creeper climbing half-way up the brick wall opposite their window. In the strong wind outside, the creeper was shedding its leaves. “What is it, dear?” Sue asked.
Hindi Translationअचानक सू ने जॉन्सी को कुछ फुसफुसाते हुए सुना। वह जल्दी से बिस्तर के पास दौड़ी और उसने सुना कि जॉन्सी उल्टी गिनती गिन रही थी। वह खिड़की से बाहर देख रही थी और कह रही थी, “बारह!” कुछ देर बाद उसने फुसफुसाया “ग्यारह”, फिर “दस”, फिर “नौ”, “आठ”, “सात”। सू ने बेचैनी से खिड़की से बाहर देखा। उसने देखा कि उनकी खिड़की के सामने एक पुरानी आइवी बेल ईंट की दीवार पर आधी ऊँचाई तक चढ़ी हुई थी। बाहर तेज़ हवा में, बेल अपने पत्ते गिरा रही थी। “क्या हो रहा है, प्रिय?” सू ने पूछा।

Word Meanings• Whisper: फुसफुसाहट/धीरे से बोलना (To speak very softly using one’s breath)
• Counting backwards: उल्टी गिनती (Counting in reverse order)
• Anxiously: व्याकुलता से/चिंतापूर्वक (In a manner resulting from or revealing anxiety)
• Ivy creeper: आइवी की बेल (A woody climbing or trailing plant)

Grammar AnalysisThe passage uses the Simple Past for sudden actions and the Past Continuous to describe ongoing observations and states.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Quickly: (Adverb) Describes the speed of Sue’s movement.
• Old: Describes the age of the ivy plant.
• Brick: Describes the material of the wall.
• Strong: Describes the intensity of the wind.
• Anxiously: (Adverb) Describes Sue’s emotional state while looking.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Heard / Rushed / Whispered / Looked / Saw / Asked: Simple Past used to narrate the sequence of events.
• Counting / Looking / Saying / Climbing / Shedding: Present participles used with “was/were” to form the Past Continuous, showing actions in progress.
• Whisper / Count: Infinitives used after verbs of perception (heard).
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Suddenly: Describes the unexpected timing of the whisper.
• Quickly: Describes the speed of Sue’s movement to the bed.
• Backwards: Describes the direction or order of the counting.
• Anxiously: Describes the worried manner in which Sue looked out.
• Outside: Adverb of place showing where the wind and creeper were.

“Six,” whispered Johnsy. “They are falling faster now. Three days ago there were almost a hundred leaves. There are only five left now.”
“It is autumn,” said Sue, “and the leaves will fall.”
“When the last leaf falls, I will die,” said Johnsy with finality. “I have known this for the last three days.”
Hindi Translation“छह,” जॉन्सी ने फुसफुसाया। “वे अब तेज़ी से गिर रहे हैं। तीन दिन पहले लगभग सौ पत्ते थे। अब केवल पाँच बचे हैं।”
“यह पतझड़ है,” सू ने कहा, “और पत्ते गिरेंगे।”
“जब आखिरी पत्ता गिरेगा, मैं मर जाऊँगी,” जॉन्सी ने दृढ़ता से कहा। “मुझे यह पिछले तीन दिनों से पता है।”

Word Meanings• Falling faster: तेजी से गिर रहे हैं (Moving downward more quickly)
• Autumn: पतझड़ (The season between summer and winter when leaves fall)
• Finality: अटल निर्णय/पूर्णता (The quality of being fixed and impossible to change)

Grammar AnalysisThe passage uses the Present Continuous to describe current actions and the Future Simple to express Johnsy’s grim predictions.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Faster: (Comparative adverb/adjective) Describes the increasing speed of the falling leaves.
• Hundred / Five: Number adjectives showing the quantity of leaves.
• Autumn: (Noun used as an adjective) Describes the current season.
• Last: Describes the final leaf and the duration of Johnsy’s thought.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Whispered / Said: Simple Past used to narrate the dialogue.
• Are falling: Present Continuous showing the action happening right now.
• Were: Simple Past showing the state of the tree three days ago.
• Will fall / Will die: Future Simple used to state a natural fact and a personal prediction.
• Have known: Present Perfect showing an state that started three days ago and continues now.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Now: Describes the current moment.
• Ago: Used to show how far back in time something happened.
• Almost: Describes the approximate number of leaves.
• Only: Used to emphasize the small number of leaves remaining.

“Oh, that’s nonsense,” replied Sue. “What have old ivy leaves to do with your getting well? The doctor is confident that you will get better.”
Johnsy did not say anything. Sue went and brought her a bowl of soup.
“I don’t want any soup,” said Johnsy. “I am not hungry … Now there are only four leaves left. I want to see the last one fall before it gets dark. Then I will sleep forever.”
Hindi Translation“ओह, यह सब बकवास है,” सू ने जवाब दिया। “पुराने आइवी के पत्तों का आपके ठीक होने से क्या संबंध है? डॉक्टर को विश्वास है कि आप ठीक हो जाएँगी।”
जॉन्सी ने कुछ नहीं कहा। सू गई और उसके लिए सूप का एक कटोरा लेकर आई।
“मुझे कोई सूप नहीं चाहिए,” जॉन्सी ने कहा। “मुझे भूख नहीं है… अब केवल चार पत्ते बचे हैं। मैं अँधेरा होने से पहले आखिरी पत्ते को गिरते देखना चाहती हूँ। फिर मैं हमेशा के लिए सो जाऊँगी।”

Word Meanings• Nonsense: बकवास/अर्थहीन (Spoken or written words that have no meaning or make no sense)
• Brought: लाया (Past tense of bring; to carry something to a place)
• Forever: हमेशा के लिए (For all future time; for always)

Grammar AnalysisThe passage uses the Simple Present to express current opinions and the Simple Future to describe Johnsy’s dark expectations.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Old: Describes the ivy leaves.
• Confident: Describes the doctor’s state of mind.
• Better: Comparative adjective describing Johnsy’s potential health.
• Hungry: Describes Johnsy’s lack of appetite.
• Four / Last: Number and order adjectives describing the leaves.
• Dark: Describes the time of day Johnsy is waiting for.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Replied / Went / Brought / Said: Simple Past used to narrate the actions and speech.
• Have to do with: Phrasal verb used to question the connection between two things.
• Will get: Future Simple used to express a prediction of recovery.
• Don’t want / Am not: Simple Present used to express current feelings.
• To see / Fall: Infinitives used to show Johnsy’s desire.
• Will sleep: Future Simple used by Johnsy as a metaphor for dying.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Anything: Used to show Johnsy remained completely silent.
• Now: Refers to the current moment when four leaves are left.
• Only: Emphasizes the very small number of leaves.
• Before: Shows the time relationship between seeing the leaf fall and it getting dark.
• Forever: Describes the duration or manner of the “sleep” Johnsy mentions.

Sue sat on Johnsy’s bed, kissed her and said, “You are not going to die. I can’t draw the curtain for I need the light. I want to finish the painting and get some money for us. Please, my dear friend,” she begged Johnsy, “promise not to look out of the window while I paint.”
“All right,” said Johnsy. “Finish your painting soon for I want to see the last leaf fall. I’m tired of waiting. I have to die, so let me go away peacefully like one of those poor, tired leaves.”
Hindi Translationसू जॉन्सी के बिस्तर पर बैठ गई, उसे चूमा और कहा, “तुम मरने वाली नहीं हो। मैं पर्दा नहीं खींच सकती क्योंकि मुझे रोशनी चाहिए। मैं चित्र खत्म करना चाहती हूँ और हमारे लिए कुछ पैसे लाना चाहती हूँ। कृपया, मेरी प्रिय सहेली,” उसने जॉन्सी से विनती की, “वादा करो कि जब मैं चित्र बनाऊँ तो खिड़की से बाहर नहीं देखोगी।”
“ठीक है,” जॉन्सी ने कहा। “जल्दी से चित्र खत्म करो क्योंकि मैं आखिरी पत्ते को गिरते देखना चाहती हूँ। मैं प्रतीक्षा करते-करते थक गई हूँ। मुझे मरना ही है, इसलिए मुझे उन बेचारे, मुरझाए पत्तों की तरह शांति से विदा होने दो।”

Word Meanings• Begged: भीख मांगना/विनती करना (To ask someone earnestly or humbly for something)
• Promise: वादा करना (To assure someone that one will definitely do something)
• Peacefully: शांतिपूर्वक (In a quiet and calm way)

Grammar AnalysisThe passage uses the Simple Past for narration and the Present Continuous/Simple Present in the dialogue to show urgency and despair.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Dear: Describes the close friendship between Sue and Johnsy.
• Right: Describes Johnsy’s agreement.
• Last: Describes the final leaf Johnsy is obsessed with.
• Tired: Describes Johnsy’s mental and physical exhaustion.
• Poor: Describes the leaves, showing Johnsy’s empathy for them.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Sat / Kissed / Said / Begged: Simple Past used to describe the actions in the room.
• Are not going to die: Present Continuous used for a future intention or certainty.
• Can’t draw / Want to finish: Modal and Simple Present showing Sue’s needs.
• To look / To see: Infinitives used to express the actions related to the window.
• Have to die: Modal of necessity used by Johnsy to show her belief.
• Let me go: Imperative used as a request for release.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Not: Negative adverb used to deny the possibility of dying.
• Soon: Describes the time by which Sue should finish her work.
• Away: Describes the direction of Johnsy’s imagined departure.
• Peacefully: Describes the calm manner in which Johnsy wishes to die.

“Try to sleep,” said Sue. “I have to paint an old miner. I will call Behrman up to be my model.”
Sue rushed down. Behrman lived on the ground floor.
He was a sixty-year-old painter. His lifelong dream was to paint a masterpiece but that had remained a dream. Sue poured out her worries to Behrman. She told him how Johnsy was convinced that she would die when the last leaf fell.
Hindi Translation“सोने की कोशिश करो,” सू ने कहा। “मुझे एक बूढ़े खनिक का चित्र बनाना है। मैं बेहरमन को ऊपर बुलाऊँगी ताकि वह मेरे लिए मॉडल बन सके।”
सू तेज़ी से नीचे गई। बेहरमन भूतल पर रहता था।
वह साठ साल का एक चित्रकार था। उसके जीवन भर का सपना था कि वह एक उत्कृष्ट कृति बनाए, लेकिन यह सपना ही रह गया था। सू ने बेहरमन के सामने अपनी सारी चिंताएँ उड़ेल दीं। उसने बताया कि जॉन्सी को विश्वास हो गया था कि जब आखिरी पत्ता गिरेगा तो वह मर जाएगी।

Word Meanings• Lifelong: आजीवन (Lasting or remaining through a person’s life)
• Masterpiece: उत्कृष्ट कृति (A work of outstanding artistry, skill, or workmanship)
• Poured out: उंडेल देना/सब कह देना (To express one’s feelings or thoughts freely)
• Convinced: आश्वस्त/दृढ़ विश्वास (Completely certain about something)

Grammar AnalysisThe passage uses the Simple Past to narrate the meeting with Behrman and the Past Perfect to describe his unfulfilled dreams.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Old: Describes the miner Sue needs to paint.
• Sixty-year-old: Describes Behrman’s specific age.
• Lifelong: Describes the duration of Behrman’s dream.
• Last: Describes the final leaf in Johnsy’s mind.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Try / Sleep / Paint / Call: Imperatives and Infinitives used in Sue’s dialogue.
• Rushed / Lived / Poured / Told: Simple Past used to show the sequence of Sue’s actions.
• Was: Linking verb in the Simple Past describing Behrman.
• Had remained: Past Perfect used to show a state that continued up to the past point of the story.
• Would die / Fell: Future in the past and Simple Past used to report Johnsy’s belief.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Down: Adverb of place showing the direction in which Sue moved.
• Up: Adverb of place showing where Sue intended to call Behrman.
• How: Used to introduce the explanation of Johnsy’s conviction.

“Is she stupid?” asked Behrman. “How can she be so foolish?”
“She is running a high temperature,” complained Sue. “She refuses to eat or drink and that worries me a lot.”
“I will come with you and see Johnsy,” Behrman said.
Hindi Translation“क्या वह मूर्ख है?” बेहरमन ने पूछा। “वह इतनी बेवकूफ कैसे हो सकती है?”
“उसे तेज़ बुखार है,” सू ने शिकायत की। “वह खाने-पीने से इनकार कर रही है और यह मुझे बहुत चिंतित करता है।”
“मैं आपके साथ चलूँगा और जॉन्सी को देखूँगा,” बेहरमन ने कहा।

Word Meanings• Running a high temperature: तेज़ बुखार होना (Having a body temperature much higher than normal)
• Complained: शिकायत की (To express dissatisfaction or annoyance)
• Refuses: मना करना (To indicate that one is not willing to do something)

Grammar AnalysisThe passage uses Direct Speech to show the interaction between Behrman and Sue, utilizing both the Simple Present and the Simple Future.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Stupid / Foolish: Describes Behrman’s initial reaction to Johnsy’s belief.
• High: Describes the severity of the fever.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Asked / Complained / Said: Simple Past used to narrate the dialogue.
• Is running: Present Continuous showing an ongoing physical state.
• Refuses: Simple Present showing a current habit or decision.
• Worries: Simple Present showing the current effect of the situation on Sue.
• Will come / See: Simple Future showing Behrman’s immediate intention to help.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• How: Interrogative adverb used to ask about the manner or degree of foolishness.
• So: Used to emphasize the degree of being foolish.
• A lot: Adverbial phrase describing the intensity of Sue’s worry.

They tiptoed into the room. Johnsy was sleeping. Sue drew the curtains together and they went to the next room. She peeped out through the window. There was only one leaf on the creeper. It was raining heavily and an icy-cold wind was blowing. It seemed as though the leaf would fall any minute now. Behrman did not say a word. He went back to his room.
Hindi Translationवे धीरे-धीरे कदम रखते हुए कमरे में दाखिल हुए। जॉन्सी सो रही थी। सू ने पर्दे खींच दिए और वे दोनों अगले कमरे में चले गए। उसने खिड़की से झाँककर देखा। बेल पर केवल एक पत्ता था। बाहर भारी बारिश हो रही थी और बर्फीली ठंडी हवा चल रही थी। ऐसा लग रहा था जैसे पत्ता अब किसी भी पल गिर जाएगा। बेहरमन ने एक शब्द नहीं कहा। वह अपने कमरे में वापस चला गया।

Word Meanings• Tiptoed: दबे पाँव चलना (To walk quietly on one’s toes)
• Peeped: झाँकना (To look quickly and furtively at something)
• Heavily: भारी मात्रा में/ज़ोर से (To a great degree; intensely)
• Blowing: बहना (The movement of air or wind)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Past Continuous tense (“was sleeping,” “was raining,” “was blowing”) to describe the background atmosphere and the Simple Past for the specific actions that took place.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Sleeping: Describes Johnsy’s current state.
• Next: Describes the room adjacent to where Johnsy was.
• One: Numerical adjective describing the single remaining leaf.
• Icy-cold: Compound adjective describing the quality of the wind.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Tiptoed / Drew / Went / Peeped: Simple Past used to narrate a series of quiet actions.
• Was sleeping / Was blowing: Past Continuous showing actions that were ongoing at that moment.
• Seemed: Simple Past showing the impression created by the situation.
• Would fall: Future-in-the-past showing a likely upcoming event.
• Did not say: Simple Past (Negative) showing Behrman’s silence.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Together: Describes how the curtains were pulled to meet each other.
• Through: Describes the way Sue looked out of the window.
• Heavily: Describes the intensity of the rain.
• Now / Any minute: Describes the immediate timeframe of the expected fall.

Johnsy woke up next morning. In a feeble voice she asked Sue to draw the curtains. Sue was nervous. She drew back the curtains very reluctantly.
“Oh!” Sue exclaimed as she looked at the vine creeper. “Look, there is still one leaf on the creeper. It looks quite green and healthy. In spite of the storm and the fierce winds, it didn’t fall.”
Hindi Translationअगली सुबह जॉन्सी जाग गई। एक कमज़ोर आवाज़ में उसने सू से पर्दे हटाने को कहा। सू घबराई हुई थी। उसने बड़ी अनिच्छा से पर्दे हटाए।
“ओह!” सू चिल्लाई जब उसने बेल की तरफ देखा। “देखो, बेल पर अभी भी एक पत्ता है। यह बिल्कुल हरा और स्वस्थ दिखता है। तूफान और तेज़ हवाओं के बावजूद, यह नहीं गिरा।”

Word Meanings• Feeble: कमजोर (Lacking physical strength, especially as a result of age or illness)
• Reluctantly: अनिच्छा से (In an unwilling and hesitant way)
• Exclaimed: चिल्लाया (Cry out suddenly, especially in surprise, anger, or pain)
• Fierce: भयंकर (Having or displaying an intense or ferocious aggressiveness)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses a mix of the Simple Past for the narrative and the Simple Present within the dialogue to describe the current state of the leaf.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Feeble: Describes the weak quality of Johnsy’s voice.
• Nervous: Describes Sue’s emotional state of worry.
• One: Numerical adjective for the single remaining leaf.
• Green / Healthy: Describes the surprisingly good appearance of the leaf.
• Fierce: Describes the violent nature of the winds.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Woke / Asked / Exclaimed / Looked: Simple Past used for the main narrative actions.
• To draw: Infinitive expressing Johnsy’s request.
• Drew back: Phrasal verb in the past tense meaning to pull something open.
• Looks: Simple Present showing a state that is currently visible.
• Did not fall: Simple Past (Negative) showing the unexpected survival of the leaf.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Next morning: Adverbial phrase of time.
• Very / Quite: Adverbs of degree used to emphasize “reluctantly” and “green.”
• Reluctantly: Describes the hesitant manner in which Sue opened the curtains.
• Still: Indicates that the leaf continues to be there despite expectations.

“I heard the wind last night,” said Johnsy. “I thought it would have fallen. It will surely fall today. Then I’ll die.”
“You won’t die,” said Sue energetically. “You have to live for your friends. What would happen to me if you die?”
Hindi Translation“मैंने रात को हवा सुनी थी,” जॉन्सी ने कहा। “मुझे लगा था कि यह गिर गया होगा। यह आज ज़रूर गिरेगा। फिर मैं मर जाऊँगी।”
“तुम नहीं मरोगी,” सू ने जोश से कहा। “तुम्हें अपने दोस्तों के लिए जीना है। अगर तुम मर गई तो मेरा क्या होगा?”

Word Meanings• Thought: सोचा (Past tense of think; to have a particular belief or idea)
• Surely: निश्चित रूप से (Used to emphasize the speaker’s firm belief)
• Energetically: जोश के साथ (In a manner showing great activity or vitality)
• Happen: होना (To take place; occur)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Simple Past for the narrative “said,” while the dialogue contains the Future Tense (“will fall,” “I’ll die,” “won’t die”) to show predictions and the Present Tense (“have to live”) for necessity.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Last: Describes the night that has just passed.
• Sure: (Used as an adverb ‘surely’ here) Describes the certainty of the action.
• Energetic: (Used as an adverb ‘energetically’ here) Describes Sue’s forceful way of speaking.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Heard / Said / Thought: Simple Past used to narrate the dialogue and thoughts.
• Would have fallen: Past conditional used to describe an event that was expected but did not happen.
• Will fall / Will die: Future Simple used to express Johnsy’s prediction.
• Won’t die: Future Simple (Negative) used for Sue’s strong denial.
• To live: Infinitive showing the purpose or necessity for Johnsy’s existence.
• Would happen: Conditional verb used to ask about a hypothetical situation.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Last night: Adverbial phrase of time.
• Surely / Today: Adverbs of certainty and time.
• Energetically: Describes the spirited manner in which Sue spoke.

Johnsy smiled weakly and closed her eyes. After every hour or so she would look out of the window and find the leaf still there. It seemed to be clinging to the creeper.
In the evening, there was another storm but the leaf did not fall. Johnsy lay for a long time looking at the leaf. Then she called out to Sue.
Hindi Translationजॉन्सी ने कमज़ोरी से मुस्कुराई और अपनी आँखें बंद कर लीं। हर एक घंटे या उससे कुछ अंतराल पर वह खिड़की से बाहर देखती और पत्ते को अभी भी वहाँ पाती। ऐसा लगता था जैसे वह बेल से चिपका हुआ है।
शाम को एक और तूफान आया, लेकिन पत्ता नहीं गिरा। जॉन्सी काफी देर तक पत्ते को देखते हुए लेटी रही। फिर उसने सू को बुलाया।

Word Meanings• Clinging: चिपका हुआ (Holding on tightly to something)
• Storm: तूफान (A violent disturbance of the atmosphere with strong winds and rain)
• Lay: लेटी रही (Past tense of lie; to be in a horizontal position)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Simple Past for the main events and the Modal “would” to describe a repeated action in the past (“she would look out”).
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Weak: (Used as an adverb ‘weakly’) Describes the manner of Johnsy’s smile.
• Another: Describes an additional storm following the previous one.
• Long: Describes the duration of time Johnsy spent looking.
• Still: Describes the leaf remaining in its position.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Smiled / Closed / Lay / Called: Simple Past used to narrate the main actions.
• Would look / Would find: Used to describe a repeated or habitual action in the past.
• To be clinging: Continuous infinitive showing the state of the leaf.
• Did not fall: Simple Past (Negative) showing the leaf’s persistence.
• Looking: Present participle describing what Johnsy was doing while lying down.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Weakly: Describes how Johnsy smiled.
• Every hour or so: Adverbial phrase showing frequency.
• Still: Shows the leaf remained despite the time passing.
• Out: Describes the direction Johnsy looked.

“I have been a bad girl. You have looked after me so lovingly and I have not cooperated with you. I have been depressed and gloomy. The last leaf has shown me how wicked I have been. I have realised that it is a sin to want to die.”
Sue hugged Johnsy. Then she gave her lots of hot soup and a mirror. Johnsy combed her hair and smiled brightly.
Hindi Translation“मैं एक बुरी लड़की रही हूँ। तुमने मेरी इतने प्यार से देखभाल की और मैंने तुम्हारा सहयोग नहीं किया। मैं उदास और निराश रही हूँ। आखिरी पत्ते ने मुझे दिखाया है कि मैं कितनी गलत थी। मुझे एहसास हो गया है कि मरना चाहना एक पाप है।”
सू ने जॉन्सी को गले लगाया। फिर उसे खूब सारा गरम सूप और एक आईना दिया। जॉन्सी ने अपने बाल सँवारे और खुशी से मुस्कुराई।

Word Meanings• Gloomy: निराशाजनक (Dark or poorly lit; feeling distressed)
• Wicked: दुष्ट/शरारती (Evil or morally wrong; here, meaning very bad)
• Sin: पाप (An immoral act considered to be a transgression against divine law)
• Brightly: चमक के साथ/खुशी से (In a way that is full of light or happiness)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Present Perfect tense (“have been,” “have looked,” “have not cooperated”) to connect past behavior to the present realization, and the Simple Past for the actions that follow.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Bad / Wicked: Describes Johnsy’s self-judgment of her past behavior.
• Depressed / Gloomy: Describes Johnsy’s previous emotional state.
• Last: Describes the final leaf that changed her perspective.
• Hot: Describes the temperature of the soup.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Have been: Present Perfect showing a state that existed up until now.
• Looked after: Phrasal verb meaning to take care of someone.
• Have not cooperated: Present Perfect (Negative) showing a past lack of support.
• Has shown / Have realised: Present Perfect showing recent discoveries or actions.
• Hugged / Gave / Combed / Smiled: Simple Past used to narrate the change in the room.
• To want / To die: Infinitives expressing the desire Johnsy now considers a “sin.”
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Lovingly: Describes the kind manner in which Sue cared for Johnsy.
• Not: Negates the cooperation and the goodness of her past state.
• How: Used to emphasize the extent of being “wicked.”
• Brightly: Describes the happy and healthy way Johnsy finally smiled.

In the afternoon the doctor came. After examining his patient, he told Sue, “Johnsy now has the will to live. I am confident she’ll recover soon. Now I must go downstairs and see Behrman. He is also suffering from pneumonia. But I am afraid, there is no hope for him.”
The next morning Sue came and sat on Johnsy’s bed. Taking Johnsy’s hand in hers she said, “I have something to tell you. Mr Behrman died of pneumonia this morning. He was ill for only two days. The first day the janitor found him on his bed. His clothes and shoes were wet and he was shivering. He had been out in that stormy night.”
Hindi Translationदोपहर को डॉक्टर आए। अपनी मरीज़ की जाँच करने के बाद, उन्होंने सू से कहा, “जॉन्सी में अब जीने की इच्छाशक्ति है। मुझे विश्वास है कि वह जल्द ठीक हो जाएगी। अब मुझे नीचे जाकर बेहरमन को देखना है। उसे भी निमोनिया है। लेकिन मुझे डर है, उसके लिए कोई उम्मीद नहीं है।”
अगली सुबह सू आई और जॉन्सी के बिस्तर पर बैठ गई। जॉन्सी का हाथ अपने हाथ में लेकर उसने कहा, “मुझे तुम्हें कुछ बताना है। मिस्टर बेहरमन की आज सुबह निमोनिया से मृत्यु हो गई। वह केवल दो दिन बीमार थे। पहले दिन चौकीदार ने उन्हें उनके बिस्तर पर पाया। उनके कपड़े और जूते गीले थे और वह काँप रहे थे। वह उस तूफानी रात में बाहर रहे थे।”

Word Meanings• Downstairs: नीचे की मंजिल पर (To or on a lower floor of a building)
• Suffering: पीड़ित होना (Experience or be subjected to something bad or unpleasant)
• Janitor: दरबान/सफाईकर्मी (A person employed as a caretaker of a building)
• Shivering: कांपना (Shaking slightly and uncontrollably as a result of being cold or frightened)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Present Continuous (“is suffering”) for current events, the Future Tense (“she’ll recover”) for predictions, and the Past Perfect (“had been out”) to explain what happened before the janitor found Behrman.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Confident: Describes the doctor’s certainty about Johnsy.
• Soon: (Adverb used here) Describes the timing of recovery.
• Wet: Describes the state of Behrman’s clothes and shoes.
• Stormy: Describes the weather on the night Behrman went out.
• First: Describes the sequence of the days of illness.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Came / Told / Sat / Said: Simple Past used to narrate the doctor’s visit and Sue’s news.
• Has: Simple Present showing Johnsy’s current mental state.
• ‘ll recover: Future Simple expressing the doctor’s prediction.
• Is suffering: Present Continuous showing Behrman’s ongoing condition.
• Died: Simple Past showing the completed action of Behrman passing away.
• Had been: Past Perfect showing Behrman’s location prior to being found.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Now: Describes the current moment of change in Johnsy.
• Downstairs: Adverb of place showing where the doctor is going.
• Only: Emphasizes the short duration of the illness.
• Out: Describes where Behrman was during the storm.

Then they found a ladder and a lantern still lighted lying near his bed. There were also some brushes and green and yellow paints on the floor near the ladder. “Johnsy dear,” said Sue, “look out of the window. Look at that ivy leaf. Haven’t you wondered why it doesn’t flutter when the wind blows? That’s Behrman’s masterpiece. He painted it the night the last leaf fell.”
Hindi Translationफिर उन्हें उनके बिस्तर के पास एक सीढ़ी और एक अभी भी जली हुई लालटेन मिली। सीढ़ी के पास फर्श पर कुछ ब्रश और हरे और पीले रंग भी थे। “जॉन्सी प्रिय,” सू ने कहा, “खिड़की से बाहर देखो। उस आइवी के पत्ते को देखो। क्या तुमने कभी सोचा कि हवा चलने पर भी यह फड़फड़ाता क्यों नहीं? यह बेहरमन की उत्कृष्ट कृति है। उन्होंने इसे उस रात चित्रित किया था जब आखिरी पत्ता गिरा था।”

Word Meanings• Ladder: सीढ़ी (A piece of equipment used for climbing up or down)
• Lantern: लालटेन (A lamp with a transparent case protecting the flame)
• Lighted: जलती हुई (Set on fire or provided with light)
• Wondered: आश्चर्य करना (Desire to know something; feel curious)
• Flutter: फड़फड़ाना / हिलना (To move with a light irregular or trembling motion)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Simple Past for the discovery of the items and the Present Tense (“doesn’t flutter,” “That’s”) to explain the current reality of the painted leaf.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Lighted: Describes the state of the lantern.
• Green / Yellow: Describes the colors of the paints found on the floor.
• Last: Describes the night the real leaf fell.
• Behrman’s: Possessive adjective showing ownership of the masterpiece.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Found / Said / Painted / Fell: Simple Past used to conclude the story’s events.
• Lying: Present participle describing the position of the tools.
• Look: Imperative verb used by Sue to direct Johnsy’s attention.
• Haven’t you wondered: Present Perfect (Negative Interrogative) asking about a past curiosity.
• Doesn’t flutter: Simple Present (Negative) describing the permanent state of the painted leaf.
• Blows: Simple Present describing the action of the wind.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Still: Indicates the lantern was remarkably still burning.
• Near: Adverb of place showing where the items were located.
• Why: Interrogative adverb asking for the reason behind the leaf’s stillness.
• When: Conjunction of time showing when the wind moves.

Kaveri Chapter 3 Poem – Hindi Translation

Reading for Appreciation
Palette of earth, rich and deep,
Where dreams of gardeners seep.
Brushstrokes of seeds, planted true,
Awaiting spring’s vibrant hue.
Hindi Translationधरती का वह रंग, गहरा और समृद्ध,
जहाँ बागवानों के सपने बसते हैं।
बीजों की वे बारीक लकीरें, जो सच में बोई गई हैं,
बस वसंत के जीवंत रंगों की प्रतीक्षा में हैं।

Word Meanings• Palette: चित्रफलक (A thin board on which an artist lays and mixes paints)
• Seep: रिसना (To flow or leak slowly through porous material)
• Brushstrokes: तूलिका की मार (The mark made by a paintbrush drawn across a surface)
• Vibrant: जीवंत (Full of energy and life)
• Hue: रंग/आभा (A color or shade)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses descriptive metaphors to compare gardening to painting. It uses the Present Tense to describe the current state of the earth and the seeds.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Rich / Deep: Describes the quality and intensity of the “earth” (soil).
• Planted: (Past participle used as an adjective) Describes the state of the seeds.
• True: Describes the manner or accuracy of the planting.
• Vibrant: Describes the energetic quality of the colors in spring.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Seep: Simple Present showing a slow, continuous movement of dreams.
• Planted: Past participle showing an action performed on the seeds.
• Awaiting: Present participle showing a state of waiting for the future.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Where: Relative adverb used to introduce the place where dreams seep.

Blossoms bloom, a painted sight,
Dancing in the morning light.
Shades of green, red, and blue,
Nature’s artwork, ever new.
Hindi Translationखिले हुए फूल, एक चित्रित नज़ारा,
सुबह की रोशनी में थिरकते हुए।
हरे, लाल और नीले रंग की छटाएँ,
प्रकृति की कलाकृति, जो हमेशा नई है।

Word Meaning:• Blossoms: खिले हुए फूल (Flowers that are blooming or opening up)
• Bloom: खिलना (To produce flowers)
• Shades: रंगत / आभा (A slight variation of a color)
• Artwork: कलाकृति (Work of art, such as a painting or sculpture)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Simple Present tense to describe the beauty of nature. It also uses a Present Participle (“Dancing”) to give a sense of movement to the flowers.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Painted: Describes the blossoms as if they were part of a painting.
• Morning: Describes the type of light.
• Green / Red / Blue: Colors describing the different shades in nature.
• New: Describes the fresh and changing state of nature’s artwork.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Bloom: Simple Present showing a natural, recurring action.
• Dancing: (Present Participle) Describes the lively movement of flowers in the wind.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Ever: Describes the frequency or duration of nature being “new.”

Each plot, a canvas wide,
Where art and life coincide.
In the hands of those who till,
Gardens become paintings still.
Hindi Translationप्रत्येक भूखंड, एक विस्तृत कैनवास है,
जहाँ कला और जीवन का मिलन होता है।
उन हाथों में जो मिट्टी को जोतते हैं,
बगीचे एक स्थिर चित्र बन जाते हैं।

Word Meanings• Plot: छोटा भूखंड (A small piece of ground marked out for a specific purpose)
• Canvas: कैनवास (A strong, coarse unbleached cloth used as a surface for painting)
• Coincide: मेल खाना/एक साथ होना (Occur at or during the same time)
• Till: जुताई करना/खेती करना (To prepare and cultivate land for crops)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses metaphorical comparisons to link the physical work of farming/gardening with the creative work of an artist.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Wide: Describes the extent of the “canvas” or garden plot.
• Those: Demonstrative adjective referring to the people who work the land.
• Still: Describes the state of the gardens as being like permanent, quiet paintings.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Coincide: Simple Present showing the meeting of art and life.
• Till: Simple Present describing the action of the gardeners.
• Become: Simple Present showing the transformation of gardens into art.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Where: Relative adverb used to link the “canvas” to the action happening on it.

A Sea of Foliage Girds Our Garden Round
A sea of foliage girds our garden round,
But not a sea of dull unvaried green,
Sharp contrasts of all colours here are seen;
The light-green graceful tamarinds abound
Hindi Translationपत्तियों का एक सागर हमारे बगीचे को चारों ओर से घेरे है,
लेकिन यह नीरस और एकसमान हरे रंग का सागर नहीं है,
यहाँ सभी रंगों का तीव्र विरोधाभास देखा जाता है;
हल्के-हरे सुंदर इमली के पेड़ प्रचुर मात्रा में हैं

Word Meanings• Foliage: पत्ते (The leaves of a plant or tree)
• Girds: घेरना (To encircle or surround)
• Unvaried: एक जैसा (Not changing; uniform)
• Contrasts: विषमता (The state of being strikingly different from something else)
• Abound: प्रचुर मात्रा में होना (To exist in large numbers or amounts)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Simple Present tense to describe a permanent scene. It uses metaphors, comparing the surrounding leaves to a “sea,” and emphasizes variety through contrasting adjectives.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Dull / Unvaried: Describes the type of green that the garden is not.
• Sharp: Describes the intensity of the differences between colors.
• Light-green: Describes the specific shade of the tamarind leaves.
• Graceful: Describes the elegant appearance of the tamarind trees.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Girds: Simple Present describing how the foliage surrounds the garden.
• Are seen: Passive voice in the Simple Present showing what is visible.
• Abound: Simple Present showing the plentiful nature of the trees.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Round: Describes the spatial arrangement (surrounding the garden).
• Not: A negative adverb used to contrast the “sea” with “dull green.”
• Here: Adverb of place indicating the specific location in the garden.

Amid the mango clumps of green profound,
And palms arise, like pillars gray, between;
And o’er the quiet pools the seemuls lean,
Red-red, and startling like a trumpet’s sound.
Hindi Translationगहरे हरे आम के झुरमुटों के बीच में,
और ताड़ के पेड़ बीच-बीच में स्तंभों की तरह ऊपर उठते हैं;
और शांत तालाबों के ऊपर सेमल के पेड़ झुके हैं,
लाल-लाल, और किसी तुरही की आवाज़ की तरह चौंकाने वाले।

Word Meanings• Clumps: झुरमुट (A small group of trees or plants growing closely together)
• Profound: गहरा (Extremely deep or intense)
• Arise: उगना/ऊपर उठना (To emerge or stand up)
• Startling: चौंकाने वाला (Very surprising, astonishing, or remarkable)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses vivid imagery and similes (“like pillars,” “like a trumpet’s sound”) to create a strong visual and auditory impression of the garden.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Green / Profound: Describes the deep, intense color of the mango groves.
• Gray: Describes the color of the palm tree trunks.
• Quiet: Describes the still and peaceful nature of the pools (water bodies).
• Red-red: A repetitive adjective used to emphasize the intense crimson color of the seemul flowers.
• Startling: Describes the sudden, dramatic impact of the red flowers on the viewer.
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Arise: Simple Present showing the tall, vertical growth of the palms.
• Lean: Simple Present showing the physical position of the seemul trees over the water.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Between: Describes the position of the palms relative to the mango clumps.
• Like: (Preposition used for comparison) Used to compare palms to pillars and the red color to a trumpet’s sound.

But nothing can be lovelier than the ranges
Of bamboos to the eastward, when the moon
Looks through their gaps, and the white lotus changes
Into a cup of silver. One might swoon
Drunken with beauty then, or gaze and gaze
On a primeval Eden, in amaze.
Hindi Translationलेकिन पूर्व की ओर बाँस की पंक्तियों से अधिक सुंदर कुछ नहीं हो सकता,
जब चाँद उनकी दरारों से झाँकता है,
और सफेद कमल चाँदी के प्याले में बदल जाता है।
कोई तब सौंदर्य में डूबकर बेहोश हो सकता है,
या किसी आदिम स्वर्ग को अचंभे से निहार सकता है।

Word Meanings• Ranges: कतारें (A line or series of things, like trees or mountains)
• Swoon: बेहोश होना/विस्मित होना (To faint or be overwhelmed by strong emotion)
• Primeval: आदिम/प्राचीन (Of or resembling the earliest ages in the history of the world)
• Amaze: विस्मय (A feeling of great surprise or wonder)

Grammar AnalysisThe paragraph uses the Comparative degree (“lovelier than”) to show that this specific scene is the best. It also uses Subjunctive-style phrasing (“One might”) to describe a possible reaction to such beauty.
► Adjectives (Describing Words)
• Lovelier: Comparative adjective showing that the bamboo ranges are the most beautiful.
• White: Describes the natural color of the lotus flower.
• Silver: Describes the appearance of the lotus under moonlight.
• Drunken: Describes the state of being overwhelmed by beauty.
• Primeval: Describes the ancient, untouched quality of the “Eden.”
► Verbs (Action/State Words)
• Looks: Simple Present describing the moon shining through the trees.
• Changes: Simple Present showing the transformation of the flower’s appearance.
• Might swoon: Modal verb expressing a possibility of being overwhelmed.
• Gaze: To look steadily and intently, especially in admiration.
► Adverbs (How/When/Where)
• Eastward: Describes the direction of the bamboo ranges.
• When: Conjunction of time showing the moon’s effect.
• Then: Refers to the specific time when the moon is out.

Kaveri Chapter 3 Summary in English and Hindi:

Summary — Winds of Change (English)
Winds of Change is an expository article that explores the rich history and cultural significance of the Indian pankha — the traditional hand fan. The word pankha comes from ‘pankh’, meaning the feather of a bird. Evidence of pankhas in India dates back to the 2nd century CE, found in Buddhist wall paintings at the Ajanta caves. In ancient times, pankhas were used in temples to fan deities and in royal courts to fan kings. Over time they became significant trade goods, considered exotic and stylish.
Different regions of India developed their own distinctive styles. Rajasthan is known for the appliqué fan made with ornamental needlework, the glittering zardozi fan with gold threadwork, temple fans made of engraved brass, and painted cardboard fans offered to gods. Gujarat has elegant cotton fans with mirror work, colourful bead fans with silver handles, and Kutch’s unique hand-stitched leather fans. Bengal’s artisans make delicate fans from the spongy centre of the sola plant, locally called Tal Patar Pankha. Uttar Pradesh has the richly decorated Phadh fan, Bihar is known for its sturdy bamboo fans, and various tribes across India create their own versions using grass, cane, metal and palm leaves with geometric patterns.
In modern times, electric fans and air conditioners have pushed pankhas out of daily use. They now exist mainly as decorative craft items. However, the article argues that celebrating pankhas — through workshops and handicraft exhibitions — can help preserve this art form, give artisans a commercial platform, and keep India’s cultural heritage alive.
Theme: Preservation of traditional crafts, cultural identity, and the impact of modernisation on India’s artistic heritage.
Summary in Hindiविंड्स ऑफ चेंज — सारांश
विंड्स ऑफ चेंज एक विवरणात्मक लेख है जो भारत के पारंपरिक हाथ के पंखे — पंखा — के इतिहास और सांस्कृतिक महत्त्व पर प्रकाश डालता है। ‘पंखा’ शब्द ‘पंख’ से बना है जिसका अर्थ है पक्षी का पर। भारत में पंखे के प्रमाण दूसरी शताब्दी ईस्वी के अजंता गुफा चित्रों में मिलते हैं। प्राचीन काल में पंखों का उपयोग मंदिरों में देवी-देवताओं को हवा करने और राजदरबारों में राजाओं की सेवा के लिए होता था। धीरे-धीरे ये व्यापार मार्गों के जरिए फैले और विदेशी तथा फैशनेबल वस्तु बन गए।
भारत के अलग-अलग राज्यों ने अपनी-अपनी शैली के पंखे विकसित किए। राजस्थान में अपलीक, जरदोजी, पीतल के मंदिर पंखे और रंगे हुए गत्ते के पंखे प्रसिद्ध हैं। गुजरात में शीशे के काम वाले, मनकों से सजे और कच्छ के चमड़े के पंखे जाने-माने हैं। बंगाल में सोला घास से बने नाजुक पंखे बनाए जाते हैं जिन्हें तालपात्र पंखा कहते हैं। उत्तर प्रदेश में फड़ पंखे सोने की जरी और रेशम से सजाए जाते हैं जबकि बिहार के बांस के पंखे अपनी मजबूती के लिए जाने जाते हैं। भारत की आदिवासी जनजातियां भी घास, धातु, बेंत और ताड़ के पत्तों से अपने पंखे बनाती हैं।
आज के समय में बिजली के पंखों और एयर कंडीशनर के आने से पंखा संस्कृति खतरे में है। अब पंखे मुख्यतः सजावटी वस्तु बन गए हैं। लेख का निष्कर्ष है कि पंखा महोत्सव, कार्यशालाओं और हस्तशिल्प प्रदर्शनियों के माध्यम से इस परंपरा को बचाया जा सकता है।
मुख्य विषय: पारंपरिक शिल्प का संरक्षण, सांस्कृतिक पहचान, और आधुनिकता का भारतीय कला विरासत पर प्रभाव।

Summary — Canvas of Soil (English)
Canvas of Soil is a short lyrical poem by Maya Anthony that draws a beautiful comparison between a garden and a painting. The poet uses an extended metaphor throughout the poem — the soil of the garden is compared to a painter’s palette, seeds planted in the earth are like brushstrokes on a canvas, and the blooming flowers become nature’s own artwork.
In the first stanza, the poet describes the earth as rich and deep, full of possibilities, where gardeners plant seeds and wait for spring to bring colour and life. The second stanza celebrates the beauty of the garden in full bloom — flowers dancing in morning light, displaying shades of green, red, and blue, all of which the poet calls nature’s ever-new artwork. The final stanza draws the comparison most directly — each garden plot is called a canvas wide, where art and life coincide. In the hands of those who till the soil, gardens become still-life paintings.
The poem can also be read as an allegory — the garden representing life’s journey, with its seasons of growth, colour, and quiet beauty and the gardener representing every person who creates something meaningful with their hands and heart.
Theme: Nature as art, the beauty of everyday life and the creative spirit in all human work.
Summary in Hindiकैनवास ऑफ सॉइल — सारांश
कैनवास ऑफ सॉइल Maya Anthony द्वारा लिखी गई एक सुंदर कविता है जो एक बगीचे की तुलना एक चित्र से करती है। कवयित्री पूरी कविता में एक विस्तृत रूपक का उपयोग करती हैं — मिट्टी को चित्रकार की पैलेट से, बीजों को붓ों के स्ट्रोक से, फूलों को प्रकृति की कलाकृति से और बगीचे की क्यारी को एक विशाल कैनवास से तुलना की गई है।
पहले पद में कवयित्री धरती को एक समृद्ध पैलेट के रूप में चित्रित करती हैं जहाँ बागवान अपने सपनों को बीज के रूप में बोते हैं और वसंत के आने का इंतजार करते हैं। दूसरे पद में खिले हुए फूलों की सुंदरता का वर्णन है — सुबह की धूप में नाचते फूल, हरे, लाल और नीले रंगों में बिखरे हुए, प्रकृति की सदा नई कलाकृति के रूप में। तीसरे और अंतिम पद में कवयित्री कहती हैं कि हर क्यारी एक विशाल कैनवास है जहाँ कला और जीवन एक साथ मिलते हैं। जो लोग मिट्टी को जोतते हैं, वे दरअसल एक जीवंत चित्र बना रहे होते हैं।
इस कविता को एक रूपकथा के रूप में भी देखा जा सकता है — बगीचा जीवन की यात्रा का प्रतीक है, ऋतुएं जीवन के बदलते पलों का, और बागवान हर उस इंसान का जो अपने हाथों और दिल से कुछ सुंदर बनाता है।
मुख्य विषय: प्रकृति में कला, रोजमर्रा के जीवन की सुंदरता, और हर रचनात्मक कार्य में छिपी कलात्मकता।