Abhiley | Story 2 | Short Stories | English 10th | Summary | Questions and Answers |

 

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English | Class 10th | Tulip Series |

 

Abhiley | Story 2 | Short Stories | English 10th | Summary | Questions and Answers |

 

Short Summary

            "Abhiley" by Abdul Gani Sheikh tells the story of an elderly grandmother, Abhi, who is deeply attached to her family, especially her granddaughter, Rukshana, who has gone to Srinagar for further education. Abhi is constantly anxious about Rukshana's well-being, worrying about every possible danger she might face in the city. Her lack of experience with modern technology and the outside world adds to her fears, making her overly cautious and protective. The story highlights the generational gap between Abhi and the younger members of her family, portraying her innocence, simplicity, and deep emotional bond with her loved ones. Despite her initial reluctance, Abhi eventually visits Rukshana in Srinagar, but her love for her village and other family members draws her back home. The story is a poignant reflection on the challenges of aging, the fear of the unknown, and the unwavering love of a grandmother.

 

Thinking about the Text

i) Do you think that Abhiley represents the simplicity of Ladakhi women? Cite two examples of her innocence and ignorance from the text.

Answer: Yes, Abhiley represents the simplicity and innocence of Ladakhi women. Two examples from the text that highlight her innocence and ignorance are:

1. Abhiley's fear of the gun: When her uncle left his gun in the kitchen, Abhiley was so tense that she couldn’t sleep for two nights. She guarded the kitchen all day, convinced that as soon as the gun was touched, the bullets would explode instantly and everyone would die. This shows her lack of understanding of how guns work, reflecting her simplicity.

2. Her reaction to the film: Abhiley, along with another elderly woman, went to see a film for the first time. With their weak eyesight, the moving images on the screen held no more truth for them than a dream. They watched less and complained more of headaches and nausea, showing their unfamiliarity with and misunderstanding of modern entertainment.

ii) Why did Abhiley call Dolma a memsahib?

Answer: Abhiley called Dolma a "memsahib" because of Dolma's modern attire and appearance, which was unfamiliar and surprising to Abhiley. Dolma, having come from Delhi, dressed in a way that Abhiley associated with the modern, Westernized women she had seen or heard about. The term "memsahib" reflects Abhiley's perception of Dolma as someone who belongs to a different, more sophisticated world.

iii) How will you estimate Abhiley's response to modem technology?

Answer: Abhiley's response to modern technology is one of confusion, fear, and reverence. She views technology as something mysterious and potentially dangerous, as seen in her reaction to the gun left in the kitchen or her respectful and almost fearful references to airplanes. Her lack of exposure to and understanding of modern conveniences highlights her traditional lifestyle and the generational gap between her and the younger characters.

iv) What are the major themes of the short story "Abhiley”?

Answer: The major themes of "Abhiley" include:

1. Generational Gap: The story explores the differences in understanding and experience between the older and younger generations, especially in how they perceive the world and technology.

2. Love and Family Bond: Abhiley's deep love for her family, especially her granddaughter Rukshana, is a central theme. Her worries and actions are driven by her protective instincts and emotional attachment.

3. Fear of the Unknown: Abhiley’s fear of what she doesn’t understand, like modern technology and life in the city, underscores the theme of fear of the unknown.

4. Cultural Transition: The story reflects the cultural transition from traditional Ladakhi life to a more modern way of living, and how the older generation struggles to adapt.

v) Abhiley was always worried about Rukhsana but why did she not opt to stay at Srinagar with her?

Answer: Abhiley did not opt to stay in Srinagar with Rukshana because of her deep attachment to her home and the rest of her family in her village. Despite her worries about Rukshana, Abhiley was uncomfortable being away from her familiar environment and missed her other children and grandchildren. Her love for her village life, and possibly her fear and discomfort in the city, made her choose to return home rather than stay in Srinagar.

 

Language Work

i) Match the following:

Abhiley	Father
Kaga	Uncle
Agu	Grandmother
Aba	Elder brother
Achey	Aunt

 

Answer:

Abhiley	Grandmother
Kaga	Elder brother
Agu	Uncle
Aba	Father
Achey	Aunt

 

ii) Give the meaning of the following and use in your own sentences:

sunken cheeks; broken down; pursed her mouth; spewing venom; hale and hearty;

Answer: Here are the meanings and example sentence for the given phrases:

1. Sunken Cheeks:

Meaning: Cheeks that appear hollow or drawn in, often due to illness, age, or malnutrition.

Sentence: After weeks of illness, his sunken cheeks were a clear sign of his deteriorating health.

 

2. Broken Down:

Meaning: Something that has stopped functioning properly, typically due to mechanical failure; it can also refer to a person who is emotionally or physically exhausted.

Sentence: The old car had broken down on the side of the road, leaving us stranded in the middle of nowhere.

 

3. Pursed Her Mouth:

Meaning: To press the lips together tightly, often as a sign of disapproval or deep thought.

Sentence: She pursed her mouth in disapproval when she heard the news, clearly unhappy with the decision.

 

4. Spewing Venom:

Meaning: Speaking in an extremely angry or hateful manner, often with malicious intent.

Sentence: During the argument, he started spewing venom, hurling insults that cut deep into their friendship.

 

5. Hale and Hearty:

Meaning: In good health; strong and healthy.

Sentence: Despite being in his seventies, my grandfather is still hale and hearty, taking long walks every morning.

 

 

Writing Work

i) Write a short paragraph on 'generation gap”. How can the communication barrier be minimised?

Answer: Generation Gap:

The term "generation gap" refers to the differences in opinions, values, and attitudes between one generation and another, often between parents and their children. These differences can stem from varying life experiences, technological advancements, and societal changes. While older generations may hold traditional views, younger people often embrace new ideas, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts. To minimize the communication barrier, both sides must practice empathy and open-mindedness. Encouraging open dialogue, actively listening, and being willing to compromise can bridge the gap. Mutual respect and a genuine effort to understand each other's perspectives are key to overcoming these differences and fostering a harmonious relationship between generations.

 

Discussion

i) How will you relate backwardness to illiteracy?

Answer: Backwardness and illiteracy are often interconnected, as a lack of education can limit an individual's ability to access information, develop critical thinking skills, and adapt to societal changes. Illiteracy keeps people from understanding and engaging with modern advancements, which can lead to a state of backwardness where communities remain stuck in outdated practices and unable to progress. Education empowers individuals to break free from this cycle, enabling them to participate more fully in the modern world and contribute to societal development.

ii) What type of response do you expect from your grandparents to modem technology and pursuit thereof by you?

Answer: Grandparents may respond to modern technology with a mix of curiosity, caution, and sometimes scepticism. They might find it challenging to understand or adopt new technologies due to their unfamiliarity, yet they may also be impressed by the possibilities it offers. Their response to your pursuit of technology could range from supportive interest, appreciating how it enhances your life, to concern over potential negative impacts, such as the loss of traditional values or face-to-face communication. A patient explanation of how technology benefits everyday life can help them feel more comfortable and accepting of these changes.

 

Suggested Reading

Forsaking Paradise by Abdul Ghani Sheikh

Kashmir in Sunshine & Shade by C. E. Tyndale Biscoe