GSEB Class 10 English Solutions Chapter 7 Kach & Devayani

1. Read the story, Why the Ashman ? (Classroom / Group Activity)

Once upon a time, a Brahmin named Agniswami lived in Brahmsthal on the bank of the Yamuna. He had a beautiful daughter called Mandarvati. With the passage of time she became mature enough to get married. Three young men came for her hand, but her father approved none of them so they stayed there waiting.

Meanwhile, Mandarvati, suffering from severe fever, died. The sad young men performed her final rituals. After that one of them made a hermitage and began to live there, preserving her ashes. The second one, taking her bones, reached the Ganga. The third one became a saint and wandered the places of pilgrimage of the country.

Once the young man happened to be a guest of a Brahmin who knew Sanjivani Vidya. The host Brahmin, pleased with his service and devotion, taught him the vidya. Learning the vidya, he rushed to Brahmsthal. After reaching there he told the whole story to the young man who was living near the ashes.

As soon as he chanted the mantra and sprinkled water on the ashes, the girl revived. By that time, the third one returned from the pilgrimage. Seeing the girl alive, the three began to quarrel and claimed to marry her. The first said that it was because of his mantra she came to life, whereas the second said that it was because of his pilgrimage, she revived.

The third one claimed that it was only because of his preserving her ashes, she came to life. They continued arguing and quarrelling. At last they went to a wise man of their village and told their case. The wise man said the person who had preserved the ashes could be the husband. The person, who learnt the Sanjivani Vidya, was her father and third one could be her brother.

Question 2. Read the description of some Indian mythological characters. Find out and write a short introduction of the last two characters.
(1) Balram : Balram was the elder brother of Krishna. Balaram is considered as the eighth incarnation of Vishnu. Another view considers him the incarnation of Shesh (serpent).
(2) Indra : Indra is considered as the King of Gods. He is also the God of Firmament. He holds / possesses the unbeaten weapon called vajra.
(3) Sheshnag: Sheshnag is the king of all serpents or nags. He has a thousand heads. He is the couch and canary of Vishnu. It is also said that he bears the earth on his head. At the end of a kalp, he vomits enormous fire which destroys the world.
(4) Menaka: Menaka was a beautiful apsara : in the court of Indra. When Vishwamitra performed tap, Indra, becoming fearful, sent Menaka to end the tap of Viswamitra. And Menaka succeeded in it.
Answer:
(3) Sheshnag: Sheshnag is the king of all serpents or nags. He has a thousand heads. He is the couch and bed of Vishnu. It is also said that he bears the earth on his head. At the end of a kalp, he vomits enormous fire which destroys the world.
(4) Menaka: Menaka was a beautiful apsara in the court of Indra. When Vishwamitra performed deep meditation, Indra, becoming afraid, sent Menaka to stop the meditation of Vishwamitra. And Menaka succeeded in it.
In simple words: The task asks to introduce the last two characters. Based on the provided descriptions, Sheshnag is the king of all serpents with many heads, serving as Vishnu's bed and holding the Earth. Menaka was a beautiful celestial dancer who was sent by Indra to interrupt Vishwamitra's meditation, and she successfully achieved this.

Exam Tip: When asked to introduce characters from a passage, use only the details given in that specific text. Focus on key roles and unique traits mentioned.

(5) The Ganga : The Ganga is the holiest river. It is said that she was in the heaven. By the efforts of the King Bhagirath, Ganga agreed to come down to the earth. On the earth, she was taken up by Lord Shiva on his head. She was trapped there and when she asked for forgiveness, Lord Shiva released her. So it is said the Ganga flows from the head of Lord Shiva.

(6) Angad : Angad was a vanara (monkey) who helped Rama to find his wife Sita. He also helped Rama to fight against Ravana, He was the son of Bali and Tara and nephew of Sugriva.

(7) Ashwatthama : Ashwatthama was the son of Guru Drona. He is the grandson of the Brahmin sage Bharadwaj. Ashwatthama fought on the Kaurava side - against the Pandavas. The rumours about his death led to the death of Drona by Prince Dhrishtadyumna. Ashwatthama is also said.

Question 3. Match the meaning with the word. Write the number in the box.
(1) Rishi - [2] - a person who moves around in search of dharma
(2) Sanyasi - [5] - a son of Manu
(3) Shishya - [6] - the head of an ashram
(4) Danav - [1] - a person who teaches dharma
(5) Manav - [7] - a son of Vaital
(6) Acharya - [3] - a disciple
(7) Vaitalik - [4] - a son of Danu
Answer:
(1) Rishi - a person who gives instruction in dharma
(2) Sanyasi - a person who travels seeking dharma
(3) Shishya - a disciple
(4) Danav - a son of Danu
(5) Manav - a son of Manu
(6) Acharya - the head of an ashram
(7) Vaitalik - a son of Vaital
In simple words: This task requires matching words on the left with their correct meanings or related terms on the right. The provided answer shows the correct pairing for each item, such as a Rishi giving instruction in dharma and a Sanyasi traveling to seek dharma.

Exam Tip: For matching questions, read both columns carefully. Look for clear definitions or direct associations between the terms to ensure accurate pairing.

Vocabulary

Question 1. Replace the underlined words with the words in the Read that have similar meanings. The first two letters of that word are given in the brackets.
It is said that in ancient times, many monsters (de...) lived on the earth where many rishis also lived. The rishis had their living place in huts (he...) to live in. They taught all the skills of life to their pupils (di...). The pupils had to collect dry wood (fi...) for the yagna (sa...). Sometimes the monsters harassed the rishis, so they sent for (su...) the kings to protect them.
Answer:
It is said that in ancient times, many demons (de...) dwelt on the earth where many rishis also lived. The rishis had their living place in hermitage (he...) to reside. They instructed all the skills of life to their disciples (di...). The disciples had to gather firewood (fi...) for the sacrificial fire (sa...). Sometimes the demons harassed the rishis, so they summoned (su...) the kings to safeguard them.
In simple words: To complete this task, you need to find replacement words for the underlined terms that start with the given two letters and match the meaning in the passage. For example, "monsters" becomes "demons", "huts" becomes "hermitage", and "pupils" becomes "disciples."

Exam Tip: Pay close attention to the context of each sentence to choose the most fitting synonym. The provided initial letters are a crucial hint to narrow down your choices.

Question 2. Interchange the underlined words to make the passage meaningful.
Bahubali discarded the responsibility of protecting the nation against enemies. Unfortunately there were many complaints about his innocent and misdeeds, so he was pleaded to the court of the king where he was charged with betraying the nation. He summoned to prove ( himself dishonesty. But none of his excuses was accepted. At last the king undertook him from his army.
Answer:
Bahubali accepted the responsibility of protecting the nation against enemies. Unfortunately, many grievances arose about his dishonesty and misdeeds, so he was summoned to the king's court where he was charged with betraying the nation. He pleaded to prove himself innocent. But none of his excuses was accepted. At last, the king discarded him from his army.
In simple words: The original passage had some words that were swapped incorrectly. To fix it, you need to put the right words back in their places. For instance, "discarded" and "undertook" were swapped, as were "innocent" and "dishonesty" and "pleaded" and "summoned" to make the story make sense.

Exam Tip: Read the passage both before and after making changes to ensure logical flow and correct meaning. Context is key in identifying misplaced words.

3. Some Verbs Have Different Meanings When They Are Used With Different Prepositions.

Example : look
I love looking at the sunset, (seeing)
He was looking for his lost keys, (searching)
Parents look after their children. (take care of)
C.I.D. was looking into the case. (investigating)

Now join the verb with preposition. Write its meaning and use it in a sentence.

(1) go into
Answer: Whenever I have time, I plan to look into this lesson deeply.
In simple words: This means you plan to study the lesson thoroughly when you have a chance.

Exam Tip: Phrasal verbs often have literal and idiomatic meanings; choose the meaning that fits the context of the sentence.

(2) go by - UHR
Answer: A year will pass by and you will be in college.
In simple words: This means a year will quickly go past, and then you will be attending college.

Exam Tip: Phrasal verbs like 'go by' indicate the passage of time. Ensure your sentence clearly conveys this meaning.

(3) go for -
Answer: I will opt for pizza with cheese.
In simple words: This means you will choose pizza with cheese.

Exam Tip: 'Go for' implies selecting or choosing something. Your sentence should show a clear choice being made.

(4) run into -
Answer: The car hit a lamppost.
In simple words: This means the car accidentally crashed into a lamppost.

Exam Tip: 'Run into' can mean to collide or to meet unexpectedly. The context here suggests a collision.

(5) run for -
Answer: When he saw a lion, he ran to save his life.
In simple words: This means he quickly fled when he saw the lion to protect himself.

Exam Tip: 'Run for' can indicate seeking safety or pursuing something. Here, it's about fleeing from danger.

(6) run off-
Answer: The thief escaped with all the cash.
In simple words: This means the thief quickly left the area, taking all the money.

Exam Tip: 'Run off' often implies escaping or leaving with something, usually stolen. Show clear action of escape.

(7) take for -
Answer: Your mother looks so young that I assumed her for your sister.
In simple words: This means your mother appears so youthful that I mistook her for your sister.

Exam Tip: 'Take for' means to mistake someone or something for another. The sentence should show an instance of mistaken identity.

(8) take out -
Answer: Father took us to a movie last Sunday.
In simple words: This means Father treated us by taking us to see a film on Sunday.

Exam Tip: 'Take out' often refers to treating someone to an outing or a meal. Ensure your sentence shows this kind of activity.

(9) take off -
Answer: Please remove your shoes before you enter the room.
In simple words: This means you should remove your footwear before entering the room.

Exam Tip: 'Take off' can mean to remove clothing or to depart. In this context, it is about removing shoes.

(10) put in -
Answer: The Lord invested a lot of hard work to create a mother.
In simple words: This means that a great deal of effort and dedication went into the creation of a mother.

Exam Tip: 'Put in' can mean to invest effort or time. Here, it highlights the immense effort involved.

(11) put into-
Answer: I have invested a lot of hard work into this project.
In simple words: This means I have dedicated a significant amount of effort and time to this project.

Exam Tip: 'Put into' emphasizes the effort or resource directed towards a specific task or goal.

(12) put out -
Answer: The firemen quickly extinguished the fire.
In simple words: This means the firefighters acted fast to stop the fire.

Exam Tip: 'Put out' specifically means to extinguish a fire or light. Ensure your sentence clearly conveys this action.

(13) put off -
Answer: The wedding was postponed because of grandfather's illness.
In simple words: This means the marriage event was delayed due to the grandfather's sickness.

Exam Tip: 'Put off' means to postpone or delay an event. Your sentence should show a clear reason for the delay.

Question 4. Read these sentences carefully. Then find out from the lesson the text having similar words or a group of words. Write the number of the page and the column.
Example: There was no student who knew; the answer to the question. (Page 1, Column 1)
The Devs did not have anybody who knew the mantra.
Answer:
(Page 1, Column 1) The Devs did not have anybody who knew the mantra.
In simple words: This example shows how to find similar phrases from the text. The sentence about the Devs is found on Page 1, Column 1 and matches the example's meaning.

Exam Tip: When matching phrases, look for synonyms and equivalent ideas, not just identical words. Contextual understanding is vital.

Question 1. The policeman came to the restaurant in search of an accused.
Answer:
(Page 1, Column 2) Anyway, you have come to me in search of knowledge.
In simple words: The sentence describes a search for an accused, and a similar phrase in the text on Page 1, Column 2, discusses coming in search of knowledge. Both convey the act of looking for something.

Exam Tip: Identify the core action or purpose in the given sentence (e.g., 'in search of') and then scan the lesson for similar expressions of that action.

Question 2. The supervisor knew why I was opening my compass box now and then.
Answer:
(Page 2, Column 1) In course of time, the asurs found out why Kach was staying with Shukracharya.
In simple words: This question is about someone understanding a reason. The matching text on Page 2, Column 1, also describes how the asurs discovered Kach's reason for staying with Shukracharya.

Exam Tip: Focus on the underlying meaning of 'knew why' or 'found out why'. The time aspect (now and then, in course of time) also helps connect similar ideas.

Question 3. The new accountant, with his sincerity, won the heart of the manager.
Answer:
(Page 2, Column 1) Because of his keen devotion and good service, he won the favour of Shukracharya.
In simple words: The question describes winning favor through good qualities. The lesson text on Page 2, Column 1, matches this by showing how Kach won Shukracharya's favor through his strong devotion and helpful service.

Exam Tip: Look for phrases that describe earning approval or respect through positive traits or actions, like 'won the heart' and 'won the favour'.

Question 4. The disciple, at the end of schooling, got the blessings of his guru and returned home.
Answer:
(Page 3, Column 1) Kach stayed for some more time and then sought the blessings of his master to return home.
In simple words: This question describes a disciple getting blessings after studies. The text on Page 3, Column 1, shows Kach seeking his master's blessings before going home.

Exam Tip: Identify key actions like 'got the blessings' and 'sought the blessings' to find similar events in the narrative. Look for the concluding phase of a period of study.

Question 5. We, siblings spent our days of childhood with lots of fun.
Answer:
(Page 3, Column 2) We have spent happy days together as brother and sister.
In simple words: The question talks about siblings enjoying their childhood. The lesson text on Page 3, Column 2, expresses the same idea by saying happy days were spent as brother and sister.

Exam Tip: Look for phrases that convey shared positive experiences, especially those involving family relationships or childhood memories.

Question 5. Match words in A with those in B and use the pairs in sentences. Read it aloud to the class.

Exam Tip: For matching exercises, first identify the most obvious pairs, then use elimination for the remaining ones. Always ensure the generated sentences correctly use the matched pair in context.

Question 6. Most nouns used for people have the same form for male and female.
Example: student (M / F), teacher (M / F)
A few have different forms : son (M), daughter (F)
Sort these nouns into three groups. Write M = male, F = Female and M / F = both in the brackets.
(1) salesman [M]
(2) actress [F]
(3) doctor [M / F]
(4) cook [M I F]
(5) gentleman [M]
(6) professor [M / F]
(7) waiter [M]
(8) widower [M]
Answer:
(1) salesman [M]
(2) actress [F]
(3) doctor [M / F]
(4) cook [M / F]
(5) gentleman [M]
(6) professor [M / F]
(7) waiter [M]
(8) widower [M]
In simple words: This task requires classifying nouns that refer to people as male (M), female (F), or both (M / F). The provided list already has these classifications in brackets, such as 'salesman' as male and 'actress' as female, while 'doctor' can be either. The 'cook' in the source was [M I F], which is a typo and should be [M / F].

Exam Tip: Understand that some professions or roles use a common term for both genders, while others have distinct male or female forms. Correct any obvious typos like "M I F" to "M / F".

(9) sir [M]
(10) bridegroom [M]
(11) journalist [M / F]
(12) landlord [M]
(13) parent [M / F]
(14) headmaster [M]
(15) painter [M / F]
In simple words: This part continues the classification of nouns by gender. It shows 'sir' and 'bridegroom' as male, 'journalist' and 'parent' as both male and female, and 'landlord', 'headmaster', and 'painter' as male terms.

Exam Tip: Be aware of traditional gender-specific terms versus gender-neutral terms in English. Some words like 'parent' are naturally inclusive, while others like 'sir' are specifically male.

7. The Read Deals With Some States Of Mind Or Feelings Like Upset, Eager, Happy, Despair, Etc. Let's Study Some More Words Indicating Feelings. Read The Words Indicating Feelings And Their Explanations In The Table.

Now, fill in the blanks. How would you feel in these situations ? Write your answers using the words in the first column of the table. You may take help of your partner. Example: Someone hits your bike because s/he was driving roughly. I would be furious.

(1) You have just passed an important exam with flying colours.
Answer: I would feel thrilled.
In simple words: If you pass an important exam successfully, you would feel very happy and excited.

Exam Tip: Connect positive events with positive emotions. Passing an exam successfully typically leads to feeling thrilled.

(2) Your friend has bought a latest smart phone that you cannot buy.
Answer: I would feel jealous.
In simple words: If your friend buys a new phone you can't afford, you might feel a bit angry or sad because you don't have it.

Exam Tip: Understand that 'jealousy' arises from wanting something someone else has. This scenario perfectly illustrates that emotion.

(3) Your lovely dog has just died.
Answer: I would feel sad.
In simple words: Losing a beloved pet like a dog would naturally make you feel very unhappy.

Exam Tip: Death of a loved one (including pets) is a common trigger for sadness. Choose the most direct and appropriate emotion.

(4) You have to make a speech on the Teachers' Day for the first time.
Answer: I would feel anxious.
In simple words: Giving a speech for the first time, especially on an important occasion, would make you feel worried and nervous.

Exam Tip: Public speaking, especially for the first time, often leads to anxiety. This is a natural human reaction to a new, high-pressure situation.

(5) Two ferocious dogs are running towards you.
Answer: I would feel terrified.
In simple words: If two fierce dogs are running at you, you would feel extremely frightened.

Exam Tip: Threats to personal safety directly evoke feelings of terror or extreme fear. The word 'ferocious' highlights the intensity of the threat.

Comprehension

Question 1. Read the text carefully and find out who says, to whom, what and when (time). Complete the table.

Exam Tip: Understand the context of each dialogue. Identify direct speech to accurately assign speaker, listener, content, and the timing of the conversation.

2. Tick Mark The Correct Option.

Question 1. In the battle between the asurs and the devs, the asurs were in benefit because....
(a) they were very strong and powerful
(b) they were capable of doing all kinds of wicked deeds
(c) their Guru Shukracharya led them on the battlefield
(d) their Guru Shukracharya restored to life many asurs
Answer: (d) their Guru Shukracharya restored to life many asurs
In simple words: The asurs had an advantage in battle because their teacher, Shukracharya, could bring many of their killed warriors back to life.

Exam Tip: When analyzing advantages in a conflict, look for unique abilities or resources possessed by one side, such as magical powers or exceptional leadership.

Question 2. Which task was difficult for the devs ?
(a) to fight against the asurs on the battlefield
(b) to catch Shukracharya alive or defeat him
(c) to go to Shukracharya to learn the science of living
(d) to go and stay with Shukracharya in his hermitage
Answer: (a) to fight against the asurs on the battlefield
In simple words: It was hard for the devs to fight the asurs because the asurs kept getting their dead revived by Shukracharya, making them a constant threat.

Exam Tip: Look for the main challenge described in the narrative for the devs. The ability of Shukracharya to revive the asurs made combat particularly difficult.

Question 3. How did Kach win the favour of Guru Shukracharya ?
(a) with his courage and strength
(b) with his intent, loyalty and good service
(c) with his intelligence and sharpness
(d) with his eagerness to gain new knowledge from him
Answer: (b) with his intent, loyalty and good service
In simple words: Kach gained Shukracharya's approval through his dedicated intention, strong loyalty, and excellent service.

Exam Tip: When evaluating how a character gains favor, look for actions and qualities that demonstrate commitment, respect, and helpfulness, rather than just raw power or intelligence.

Question 4. What did the asurs do to Kach when he was collecting flowers in the jungle ?
(a) they attacked him, caught him and took him to Shukracharya
(b) they killed him and threw his dead body into the water
(c) they killed him, ground his body into paste and mixed it with the water of the ocean.
(d) they killed him and buried his body underground
Answer: (c) they killed him, ground his body into paste and mixed it with the water of the ocean.
In simple words: When Kach was alone in the jungle collecting flowers, the asurs caught him, killed him, turned his body into a paste, and then mixed it into the ocean's water.

Exam Tip: Pay close attention to the specific details of events in the story. Multiple options might seem plausible, but only one accurately reflects the narrative's precise description.

Question 5. Kach called Shukracharya his father because....
(a) he was newborn (reborn) out of him from his stomach
(b) he was revived by his magical mantra of bringing the dead back to life
(c) Shukracharya had taught him the mantra of bringing the dead back to life
(d) he revived Shukracharya's life by the magic mantra
Answer: (a) he was newborn (reborn) out of him from his stomach
In simple words: Kach saw Shukracharya as his father because he was reborn from Shukracharya's stomach, making him like a new child to him.

Exam Tip: Understand the specific symbolic and literal meanings within mythological contexts. Rebirth from a master's body establishes a paternal relationship for Kach.

Question 6. Devayani was not ready to let Kach go back to the kingdom of the devs because ....
(a) she loved him very much
(b) he had not yet finished his studies
(c) she wanted him to return her love
(d) she loved him so much and wanted him to marry her
Answer: (d) she loved him so much and wanted him to marry her
In simple words: Devayani's deep affection for Kach was the main reason she did not want him to leave; she wanted to marry him.

Exam Tip: Identify the core motivation of characters from their actions and statements. Devayani's persistent requests and emotional appeals highlight her desire for marriage.

Question 7. Kach denied Devayani's proposal of marrying her saying that....
(a) she was the daughter of his Guru therefore he could not marry her
(b) she was his sister as both of them came out of Shukracharya, Devayani's father
(c) his love for her was not a lover's love
(d) if he married her, he would forget his newly learnt knowledge
Answer: (b) she was his sister as both of them came out of Shukracharya, Devayani's father
In simple words: Kach refused Devayani's marriage proposal because, having been reborn from Shukracharya, he considered her as his sister since they shared the same father.

Exam Tip: In mythological stories, relationships established through magical means or rebirth are often considered as strong as blood ties. Understand these unique familial bonds.

3. What do you feel when you read these sentences ?
Write How generous!, How sinful!, How pure at heart!, How tragic!, How cruel!, How miraculous!, How brave!, How honest and humble!, How faithful!, How hardworking!, How curious!, etc. Follow the example.
Answer:
Question 1. I want to learn the Sanjivani Vidya from you. Ex.: How curious!
Answer: How curious!
In simple words: This example shows that a strong desire to learn something new reflects a curious nature.

Exam Tip: When identifying feelings, match the stated action or desire with the most appropriate emotional response from the provided list.

Question 2. I shall serve you and do everything to your satisfaction.
Answer: How honest and humble!
In simple words: This statement shows a person's willingness to serve and please, which displays honesty and modesty.

Exam Tip: Words like 'serve' and 'satisfaction' imply dedication and humility. Recognize these traits when matching emotions.

Question 3. The asurs killed Kach and gave the pieces of his body to jackals and wolves.
Answer: How cruel!
In simple words: The act of killing someone and giving their body to animals is seen as an extremely harsh and unkind act.

Exam Tip: Actions involving violence or disrespect to a body are generally associated with cruelty. Use strong adjectives to reflect the severity of the act.

Question 4. If Kach dies, I will not live and if you die I also die.
Answer: How faithful!
In simple words: This statement indicates a very strong and loyal bond, where one person's life is tied to another's.

Exam Tip: Expressing a desire to die if another person dies demonstrates profound loyalty and faithfulness in relationships.

Question 5. Shukracharya taught Kach the secret mantra.
Answer: How generous!
In simple words: Shukracharya's act of sharing such an important and secret knowledge shows great kindness and willingness to give.

Exam Tip: Giving away valuable or secret knowledge, especially when it benefits others, is an act of generosity. Focus on the positive impact of the action.

Question 6. Kach immediately revived his Guru with the Sanjivani Mantra.
Answer: How miraculous!
In simple words: Kach's ability to bring his Guru back to life using a magic spell is an astonishing and wondrous event.

Exam Tip: Actions that defy natural laws or seem impossible are described as miraculous. The power to revive the dead is a clear example.

Question 7. Kach helped his Guru in his sacrificial work, grazed his cows and did all the work he was asked to do with great devotion.
Answer: How hardworking!
In simple words: Kach's dedication to performing many tasks for his Guru, including grazing cows and assisting in rituals, shows he was very diligent and committed.

Exam Tip: Look for descriptions of consistent effort, diligent completion of tasks, and strong commitment as indicators of hard work.

Question 8. Kach refused to marry Devayani only because she was his sister.
Answer: How pure at heart!
In simple words: Kach's refusal to marry Devayani due to their brother-sister relationship shows his sincerity and moral uprightness.

Exam Tip: Actions based on strong moral principles, even when difficult, demonstrate purity of intention and character.

Question 9. The asurs burnt the dead body of Kach, collected the ashes and mixed them with the divine wine that Shukracharya drank.
Answer: How sinful!
In simple words: The asurs' act of disrespecting Kach's body and tricking Shukracharya into consuming his remains is a wicked and immoral deed.

Exam Tip: Acts of deception, desecration, and malice are clear indicators of sinfulness in most moral frameworks.

Question 4. Number the sentences in order of the events in the story. Read before the class.
[4] With great devotion and good services, Kach won the faith of Shukracharya.
[6] After killing Kach, the asurs cut his body into pieces and threw them before jackals and wolves.
[1] Kach went to Shukracharya to learn Sanjivani Vidya - the science of giving life to the dead.
[7] The asurs burnt Kach's body to ashes and mixed it into the wine that Shukracharya drank.
[13] Kach returned to his father's kingdom.
[2] Kach requested Guru Shukracharya to teach him the vidya of bringing the dead to life.
[9] Shukracharya meditated for a while and knew that Kach was in his stomach.
[8] Devayani again went to her father to request him to bring Kach back to his life.
[3] Shukracharya accepted Kach as his disciple.
[5] The asurs knew the reason and decided to kill Kach.
[10] It was very difficult for Shukracharya to bring Kach back to life.
[11] Kach came back to life but Shukracharya lost his life.
[12] Kach recited the mantra and revived his Guru's life.
Answer:
(1) Kach went to Shukracharya to learn Sanjivani Vidya - the science of giving life to the dead.
(2) Kach requested Guru Shukracharya to teach him the vidya of bringing the dead to life.
(3) Shukracharya accepted Kach as his disciple.
(4) With great devotion and good services, Kach won the faith of Shukracharya.
(5) The asurs knew the reason and decided to kill Kach.
(6) After killing Kach, the asurs cut his body into pieces and threw them before jackals and wolves.
(7) The asurs burnt Kach's body to ashes and mixed it into the wine that Shukracharya drank.
(8) Devayani again went to her father to request him to bring Kach back to his life.
(9) Shukracharya meditated for a while and knew that Kach was in his stomach.
(10) It was very difficult for Shukracharya to bring Kach back to life.
(11) Kach came back to life but Shukracharya lost his life.
(12) Kach recited the mantra and revived his Guru's life.
(13) Kach returned to his father's kingdom.
In simple words: To put the events in order, first Kach went to Shukracharya to learn the Sanjivani Vidya. Then, he requested to be taught the knowledge of bringing the dead to life and was accepted as a disciple. Through his dedication, he earned Shukracharya's trust. The asurs then discovered his purpose and tried to kill him multiple times, each time in a more gruesome way (cutting body, burning and mixing ashes in wine). Devayani would repeatedly ask her father to revive Kach. Eventually, Shukracharya would bring Kach back, sometimes after discovering Kach was inside him. In one instance, Kach himself revived Shukracharya and finally returned to his own kingdom.

Exam Tip: For sequencing events, look for chronological markers and cause-and-effect relationships. Create a timeline by noting down the main actions and the order they occur in the story.

5. Answer These Questions.

Question 1. How were the asurs ?
Answer: The asurs were powerful and capable of all kinds of wickedness.
In simple words: The asurs were very strong and skilled at doing all sorts of bad things.

Exam Tip: When describing characters, always include their key traits, powers, and typical behavior as mentioned in the text.

Question 2. What did Guru Shukracharya know ?
Answer: Guru Shukracharya knew the magic mantra for bringing the dead people back to life.
In simple words: Guru Shukracharya possessed a special magic spell that could revive deceased individuals.

Exam Tip: Focus on unique skills or knowledge attributed to characters. Shukracharya's Sanjivani Vidya is a central plot point.

Question 3. What did Brihaspati advise the devs to do?
Answer: Brihaspati advised the devs to send somebody to Shukracharya to learn the secret of bringing the dead people back to life.
In simple words: Brihaspati told the devs they should send someone to Shukracharya to discover the method for reviving dead individuals.

Exam Tip: Identify the specific advice given by a wise character. Brihaspati's counsel forms the basis for the devs' strategy to overcome the asurs.

6. Answer These Questions in Two or Three Sentences Each.

Question 1. Why could the devs not defeat the asurs in their battle with them ? What did they do?
Answer: The asurs had Shukracharya supporting them. Shukracharya knew the special magic spell for bringing deceased people back to life. He brought back to life many asurs who were killed in the fight against the devs. As a result, the devs were unable to beat the asurs in their battle.
In simple words: The asurs had Shukracharya helping them. He knew a special magic to bring dead people back. So, he kept bringing the asurs back to life, which meant the devs could not win against them.

Exam Tip: When answering "Why" questions, clearly state the reason and provide supporting details from the text.

Question 2. What kind of work did Shukracharya assign to Kach ?
Answer: Shukracharya assigned Kach to bring blossoms for his prayers and gather wood for his sacred fire. He also asked Kach to look after his cattle, taking them out to graze and bringing them home when they were full.
In simple words: Kach was asked to collect flowers for prayers and firewood for the holy fire. He also had to care for the cows, taking them to graze and bringing them back.

Exam Tip: List all assigned duties clearly and concisely, ensuring no task is missed.

Question 3. What did the asurs do after their failures in killing Kach twice ?
Answer: After the asurs failed two times, they chose to get rid of Kach so that Shukracharya would never be able to bring him back to existence. Therefore, they murdered him and burned his body. They collected his ashes and blended them with the holy wine that Shukracharya drank.
In simple words: After two tries, the asurs wanted to make sure Kach couldn't come back. So, they killed him, burned his body, collected the ashes, and mixed them into Shukracharya's special wine.

Exam Tip: Provide a clear sequence of events, focusing on the methods used by the asurs to ensure Kach's permanent demise.

Question 4. What did Devayani urge Kach ? How did Kach respond to her?
Answer: Devayani strongly asked Kach to marry her. However, Kach declined, stating that since they both originated from the same father (Shukracharya), she was his sister. He explained to her that he felt love and respect for her as a sibling.
In simple words: Devayani begged Kach to marry her. Kach said no because they were like siblings, both coming from Shukracharya. He respected her as a sister.

Exam Tip: Clearly state Devayani's request and then Kach's reason for refusal, highlighting the family connection.

Question 5. Kach told Devayani that he could not marry her. Why did he say so to her?
Answer: When the asurs murdered Kach for the third occasion, they burned his body and combined his ashes in the sacred wine that Shukracharya drank. On this occurrence, Kach emerged from Shukracharya's stomach. He declined to marry Devayani because she was his sister, having both come from the same father. He believed it would be wrong to wed her.
In simple words: Kach refused Devayani because, after being reborn from Shukracharya's stomach, he considered her his sister, as they shared the same "father" in a spiritual sense. Marrying her would be a sin.

Exam Tip: Explain the unique circumstance of Kach's rebirth that led him to consider Devayani his sister, thereby justifying his refusal.

7. Write Short Notes.

Question 1. Asurs' attempts to kill Kach (knew the reason - first attempt - cut his body into pieces - second time - ground his body - threw into the ocean - third attempt - burnt his dead body-mixed the ashes with wine)
Answer: Once the asurs learned why Kach was residing with Shukracharya, they resolved to end his life. During a day when Kach was grazing cows in the forest, the asurs killed him. They severed his body into fragments and gave them to wolves and jackals. Yet, Shukracharya revived Kach using his magic spell. Another day, while Kach was gathering flowers, the asurs again murdered him. They crushed his body into a paste and blended it with the ocean's waters. Still, Shukracharya brought Kach back to life. For their third try, the asurs killed Kach, burned his body, and combined his ashes with the sacred wine that Shukracharya drank.
In simple words: The asurs found out why Kach was with Shukracharya and tried to kill him three times. First, they cut him up and fed him to animals. Second, they ground him into a paste and put him in the ocean. Third, they burned him and mixed his ashes into Shukracharya's wine. Each time, Shukracharya brought him back.

Exam Tip: For short notes, organize the information chronologically, detailing each attempt and its outcome.

Question 2. Devayani (fell in love with Kach - deep love, - requested her father to bring him back to : life whenever he was killed - proposed him to I; marry her-did all that because of her love for him - Kach refused - got angry - cursed him)
Answer: Devayani, Shukracharya's daughter, developed deep affection for the young, attractive, and clever Kach. Her love for him was profound. Consequently, whenever the asurs killed Kach, Devayani would plead with her father Shukracharya to restore him to life. When Kach prepared to return home, Devayani asked him to marry her and give her his affection. However, Kach informed her that he cherished her as a sister. Devayani reminded him that her strong love had preserved him three times. Yet, Kach asserted that he would not commit a wrong by marrying his sister. Devayani became enraged and cursed him, stating that he would be unable to practice what he had acquired.
In simple words: Devayani, Shukracharya's daughter, fell deeply in love with Kach. She always asked her father to bring Kach back to life when he was killed. She asked Kach to marry her, but he refused, saying he saw her as a sister. Angered by his refusal, she cursed him so he could not use his learned knowledge.

Exam Tip: When describing a character, include their relationships, key actions, motivations, and emotional responses, as well as any significant consequences of their actions.

Question 3. Kach (son of Brihaspati - went to Shukracharya - stayed in the ashram - served him - won his faith - killed three times - revived by Shukracharya - saved his Guru's life-refused to marry Devayani - faithfulness)
Answer: Kach, the son of Brihaspati, was dispatched by the devs to Shukracharya to gain knowledge of the sanjivani vidya. He resided in Shukracharya's hermitage and served him with strong dedication. He earned Shukracharya's trust. When the asurs discovered why Kach was living with Shukracharya, they chose to end his life. Each time they killed him, Shukracharya brought him back to existence. After being revived for the third instance, he emerged from Shukracharya's stomach. He then utilized the magic spell to revive his Guru. When he intended to go back home, Devayani requested him to marry her. However, Kach declined, stating that he viewed her as a sister because they both came from the same father. He aimed to avoid committing a sin by wedding her.
In simple words: Kach, Brihaspati's son, went to Shukracharya to learn life-giving magic. He served faithfully and won Shukracharya's trust. The asurs killed him three times, but Shukracharya brought him back. The third time, Kach was reborn from Shukracharya and then revived his Guru. He refused to marry Devayani, seeing her as a sister.

Exam Tip: Structure the short note to cover Kach's origin, purpose, service, challenges, and his final decision, highlighting his loyalty and reasons.

8. Think and Answer. You May Use Your Mother Tongue. (Classroom / Individual Activity)

Language Practice

Question 1. Two students from Afghanistan have got admission in one of the colleges in Ahmedabad. The local students are excited to meet the students from abroad. They have many questions for them. The questions they asked are given in A. A student reporter of the college magazine reports it in B.
Answer:

Question 2. Devashish is nervous to face first job interview of his life. His uncle Dineshbhai gives him certain advice - given in A. Devashish reports the same to Madhav, his friend - given in B. Underline the changes in B:
Answer:

Question 3. Nisarg appeared for an interview of a sales executive. As soon as he came out of the interview room, other participants asked him about the different sorts of questions asked. Match the question numbers with the l; reported version.
Do you have your own transport ? [4]
What are your interests ? [9]
How long have you been working in your present job? [6]
What do you do in your spare time ? [8]
Are you willing to work on Saturdays ? [7]
Have you had a job before ? [5]
How old are you? [1]
Can you type ? [3]
Are you married ? [2]
Where did you have your schooling? [10]
Answer:
1. They inquired about my age.
2. They asked whether I was wedded.
3. They wanted to know if I could type.
4. They asked me if I owned my transport.
5. They wished to know if I had a prior job.
6. They asked how long I had been in my current role.
7. They wanted to know if I was prepared to work on Saturdays.
8. They asked what I did during my free time.
9. They inquired about my interests.
10. They asked where I had attended school.

Question 4. Interaction between a boss and a secretary. It is the first day for the secretary in her office. The secretary reports it to her friend about her first day at office. Also notice the change in the words and the word order.
Answer:

Question 5. Change this telephone conversation from direct speech to reported speech.
Rohan: Can I speak to Twisha, please?
Smritiben: I'm sorry, she isn't in. Who's speaking ?
Rohan: My name is Rohan. Do you know what time she'll be back ?
Smritiben: She won't be back before ten.
Rohan: Can you give her a message ? Can you ask her to call me ?
Smritiben: What's your number?
Rohan: It is 91234321. Thank you.
Answer: Rohan courteously inquired if he could talk to Twisha. Smritiben responded that she was not present and asked who was calling. Rohan introduced himself and then asked Smritiben if she knew when Twisha would return. Smritiben stated that Twisha would not be back prior to ten. Rohan then requested if she would give Twisha a message and also asked if she could request Twisha to call him. Smritiben asked Rohan for his number. Rohan gave his number and expressed gratitude to Smritiben.
In simple words: Rohan called to speak to Twisha, but Smritiben said she wasn't there and asked who it was. Rohan introduced himself, asked when Twisha would return, and then asked Smritiben to pass on a message and ask Twisha to call him. Smritiben asked for his number, which Rohan provided before thanking her.

Exam Tip: When converting direct speech to reported speech, remember to change pronouns, tenses, and time/place references appropriately, and use reporting verbs like 'asked,' 'replied,' 'stated,' or 'inquired.'

Question 6. Read the sentences in A and B carefully. Underline the differences. Some are already done. Notice the difference in punctuation marks.
Answer:

Question 7. Match the sentences 1-10 to the reporting verbs (a) to (k).
Example : I don't think the tea is very good. (d) complain
(1) "I don't think you should tell him about this conversation." (i) advise
(2) "I am fed up with you being late every day." (d) complain
(3) "Don't forget to bring some milk on your way back home." (a) remind
(4) "I am sorry, I can't accept your gift." (f) refuse
(5) “Can I help you ?" (g) offer
(6) "Would you switch on the fan for me, please ?" (e) request
(7) "I know I made a mistake.” (j) admit
(8) "Why don't we go out somewhere this weekend?” (h) suggest
(9) "I really think you should join a bank." (c) encourage
(10) " Don't touch it It's hot "(k) warn
Answer:
(a) remind
(b) ask
(c) encourage
(d) complain
(e) request
(f) refuse
(g) offer
(h) suggest
(i) advise
(j) admit
(k) warn

Question 8. Now report the sentences given in Add the speaker and the listener.
Example : She complained that the tea wasn't very good.
(1) She advised me not to tell him about that conversation.
(2) He complained that he was fed up with me being late every day.
(3) She reminded me to bring some milk on my way back home.
(4) I politely refused to accept his gift.
(5) He offered to help me.
(6) She requested me to switch on the fan for her.
(7) I admitted that I had made a mistake.
(8) She suggested that we should go out somewhere that weekend.
(9) She warned me not to touch it and added that it was hot.
Answer:
(1) She gave me guidance not to inform him about that discussion.
(2) He expressed dissatisfaction that he was tired of me being tardy each day.
(3) She brought to mind for me to carry some milk on my journey back home.
(4) I respectfully declined to take his present.
(5) He made an offer to assist me.
(6) She asked me to activate the fan for her.
(7) I confessed that I had committed an error.
(8) She proposed that we should go out to some place that weekend.
(9) She cautioned me not to touch it and also mentioned that it was hot.

Question 9. Amrapali is keen on learning car driving. She approaches a driving school nearby. Amrapali: How much do you charge for a driving course ? Instructor: \( Rs. 2000 \) for a hatchback and \( Rs. 2500 \) for a sedan. Amrapali: Will I be able to get a driving license afterwards ? Instructor: Well, that depends on how you take the test at the RTO office. But we can assure you that you will become a confident car driver in twenty days. Amrapali: What are the timings available ? Instructor: You can come in the morning batch if you wish. Because the evening one is full. Amrapali: Which car will I get for driving? Instructor : It is your choice. Now Amrapali is reporting the incidence to her father. I went to a car driving school in the morning and met the instructor there.
(1) I asked him how much they charged for a driving course ?
(2) He replied that (they charged) \( Rs. 2000 \) for a hatchback and \( Rs. 2500 \) for a sedan.
(3) I asked him if I would be able to get a driving license afterwards ?
(4) He replied that that depended on how I took the test at the RTO office and added that they could assure me that I would become a confident driver in in twenty days.
(5) I also inquired about the timings available.
(6) He said that I could come in the morning batch if I wished because the evening one was full.
(7) I asked him which car I would get for driving.
(8) He told me that it was my choice.
Answer:
(1) I asked him about the cost of a driving course.
(2) He responded that the charges were \( Rs. 2000 \) for a hatchback and \( Rs. 2500 \) for a sedan.
(3) I inquired if I would be able to acquire a driving license later.
(4) He stated that it relied on how I performed the test at the RTO office and guaranteed that I would become a skilled car driver within twenty days.
(5) I also questioned the available schedules.
(6) He mentioned that I could attend the morning group if I preferred, as the evening one was completely booked.
(7) I asked him which car I would be driving.
(8) He informed me that it was my decision.

Question 10. These are some of the things a driving instructor said to Amrapali during her first driving lesson. Amrapali is telling a friend about the lesson. Complete the second sentence in the reported speech so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence. Use the words in the brackets.
Answer:
(1) "First of all, adjust your driving seat." (told) He instructed me to adjust my driving seat.
(2) "Don't forget to adjust the side mirrors and the central mirror to get the rear view.” (told) He told me not to forget to adjust the side mirrors and the central mirror to get the rear view.
(3) "Don't be so stiff like a statue." (told) He instructed me not to be so stiff like a statue.
(4) "Don't forget that there is a 40 kmph speed limit in city." (reminded) He reminded me that there was a 40 kmph speed limit in the city.
(5) "Always use side signals while taking turns.” (advised) He counseled me to always utilize the side signals while turning.
(6) "Why don't you drive little more slowly." (suggested) He proposed that I should drive a bit more slowly.
(7) "Don't drive so fast." (told) He told me not to drive so fast.

Question 11. Read the paragraph carefully .Spot the errors related to the reported speech. Correct the identified errors.Some time ago, Bhuvan applied for the spost of a clerk in a bank. Last Friday, he was called for an interview. When he went into the manager's office, the manager told him to sit down and asked him what is his name. Then the manager ask him if you smoke and Bhuvan informed him that I don't smoke. The manager to know where he had work earlier and Bhuvan replied I had worked for two years in a co-operative bank. Then the manager ask him if he can take shorthand and Bhuvan replied that he could. The manager gave him a test and then said he will give you a job on a month's trial. Bhuvan thank him and asked when shall I start work.
Answer: Some time ago, Bhuvan applied for the position of a clerk in a bank. The previous Friday, he was summoned for an interview. When he entered the manager's office, the manager instructed him to sit down and inquired about his name. Next, the manager asked him if he smoked. Bhuvan informed him that he did not smoke. The manager wished to know where he had worked previously, and Bhuvan responded that he had worked for two years in a co-operative bank. The manager then asked him if he was capable of shorthand, and Bhuvan confirmed that he could. The manager gave him a test and then stated that he would offer him a job on a month's trial. Bhuvan expressed gratitude and asked when he should begin his employment.
In simple words: Bhuvan got a bank clerk interview. The manager asked about his name, if he smoked, and his past work. Bhuvan answered truthfully. The manager tested his shorthand, then offered him a job for a month's trial. Bhuvan thanked him and asked when to start.

Exam Tip: For reported speech corrections, focus on changes in tense, pronouns, time/place expressions, and the use of appropriate reporting verbs like 'asked,' 'told,' 'informed,' or 'replied.'

Question 12. Use the sentences given below the paragraph and fill in the blanks numbered 1 to 8 (use the appropriate reported speech forms) to complete the news report. When she should have been asleep in bed last night, in Surat, Trupti was knee-deep in water in her front room. She had spent the night moving her possessions to safety at the upper floor of her home. The water had been creeping under her front door since 10 p.m., but as the clock struck 4 a.m., she felt the water of the flooded river Tapi had started to seep over the tops of her cupboards. At that point she gave up. “I'm in a bit of a daze," she said wearily. She added that (1) she hadn't slept for 18 hours and that she didn't think she could take any more. Dharmendra Parekh, who has lived in the city all his life, said that (2) he had never known anything like it in his life. He said that (3) he did not know how he was going to face the months of drying out his home. Dr Lakdawala, the local doctor, said that (4) that was a dangerous time for the children and for the very old. He went on to say that (5) many diseases are water - borne and therefore it was necessary to be careful. He also said that muddy river water that had mingled with water from drains and sewers was particularly dangerous. He warned that people. (6) should only use boiled water for drinking. Mr Joravarsinh, a team leader of Prayas (NGO) said that (7) he was glad that they were able to help. He added that were able to help .He added that. (8) their real work will start when the water receded and added that they would have to give all the support they could.
Answer: When she should have been sleeping last night in Surat, Trupti found herself knee-deep in water in her front room. She had spent the night moving her belongings to safety on the upper floor of her house. The water had been seeping under her front door since 10 p.m., but by 4 a.m., the water from the flooded Tapi river started to flow over her cupboards. At that point, she gave up. She said wearily that she was a bit dazed. She further mentioned that she had not rested for 18 hours and believed she could not endure any more. Dharmendra Parekh, who had resided in the city his entire life, stated that he had never witnessed anything similar. He also expressed that he did not know how he would manage the months required to dry out his home. Dr. Lakdawala, the local physician, noted that it was a dangerous period for children and the very elderly. He continued by saying that many illnesses are water-borne, so caution was essential. He also highlighted that muddy river water mixed with drain and sewer water was especially risky. He cautioned people that they should only consume boiled water for drinking. Mr. Joravarsinh, an NGO team leader, expressed his happiness that they were able to provide assistance. He added that their real effort would begin once the water receded and that they would need to offer all possible support.
In simple words: Trupti's home flooded in Surat. She moved items upstairs and felt dazed, having not slept for 18 hours. A long-time resident, Dharmendra, said he'd never seen such a flood and worried about drying his home. Dr. Lakdawala warned of water-borne diseases, especially from dirty river water, urging people to boil drinking water. NGO leader Joravarsinh was glad they helped, noting their main work starts when water goes down, needing full support.

Exam Tip: When filling in reported speech blanks, carefully consider changes in tense, pronouns, and adverbs of time and place, making sure the reported sentences flow naturally within the news report.

Writing

Question 1. Write a story based on these points. Ram - prince of Ayodhya - going to the ashram of Vishwamitra with Lakshman destroying demons like Tadka and many others-Vishwamitra swayamvar of Sita - Sita met Ram before swayamvar in a park-love at first sight - arrival of great and mighty kings to marry Shivadhanushya - Ram lifted it like a flower - marriage with Sita - Janak happy.
Answer: Ram, the noble prince of Ayodhya, along with his brother Lakshman, journeyed to the ashram of Sage Vishwamitra. There, they successfully defeated numerous demons, including Tadka, bringing peace to the sacred place. Meanwhile, King Janak of Mithila organized a grand swayamvar for his daughter, Sita. Many powerful kings and princes arrived to compete for Sita's hand. Before the swayamvar, Sita encountered Ram in a beautiful garden, and they instantly fell in love. In the assembly, a massive Shivadhanushya was placed, and King Janak declared that whoever could lift it would marry Sita. One by one, many mighty rulers tried and failed, even the formidable Ravana. Finally, Vishwamitra asked Ram to attempt it. Ram reverently took Vishwamitra's blessings and approached the bow. To everyone's astonishment, he lifted it effortlessly, as if it were a delicate blossom. Sita was overjoyed, as the man who had captured her heart had succeeded. Thus, Sita and Ram were united in marriage, bringing immense joy to King Janak.
In simple words: Prince Ram and Lakshman went to Vishwamitra's ashram, defeating demons like Tadka. Meanwhile, King Janak held a swayamvar for Sita. Ram and Sita met and fell in love. Ram easily lifted the Shivadhanushya, which no one else could, making King Janak happy and leading to their marriage.

Exam Tip: When writing a story from points, ensure a clear narrative flow, use descriptive language, and connect the events logically to create an engaging plot.

Question 2. Read the data about the Nalanda University of ancient India and write a paragraph on it. An ancient Indian university - the most famous - located in Bihar - about 88 kilometres - from Patna - established during the Gupta dynasty - remained as the best - Bakhtiyar Khilji destroyed it - Chinese pilgrim Xuanzang (Hiuen- Tsang) visited and stayed - much information about it in his writing - about 10,000 students and 2000 teachers - students from all over the world (Korea, Japan, China, Tibet, Indonesia and Persia) - admission very strict - different tests to prove their ability - area about 14 hectares-10 temples, classrooms and meditation centers-huge library - three buildings - Ratnasagara, a nine-storeyed main building - religious manuscripts and also a large collection on literature, astrology, astronomy and medicine - it took three months to burn down when invaders set fire to it - a great influence of Buddhism.
Answer: The Nalanda University, an ancient Indian institution, stood as the most renowned. Situated in Bihar, about 88 kilometers from Patna, it was established during the Gupta dynasty and was considered the world's premier university. It held a profound Buddhist influence. The esteemed Chinese scholar Xuanzang (Hiuen-Tsang) visited and resided there for a significant period, extensively documenting it in his writings. Nalanda boasted around 10,000 students and 2000 teachers. Learners from across the globe, including Korea, Japan, China, Tibet, Indonesia, and Persia, came to study. Its admission process was exceptionally stringent, requiring students to pass various evaluations to demonstrate their capabilities. The university campus spanned approximately 14 hectares, featuring classrooms, a vast library housing religious manuscripts, and an extensive collection of works on literature, astrology, astronomy, and medicine. It included 10 temples and meditation centers. The primary edifice, known as Ratnasagara, was a nine-storeyed structure. Tragically, this splendid university was demolished by Bakhtiyar Khilji in ancient times.
In simple words: Nalanda University, a famous old Indian school in Bihar, was known for being the best and having a strong Buddhist influence. It was built during the Gupta dynasty. A Chinese traveler, Xuanzang, visited and wrote a lot about it. It had 10,000 students and 2000 teachers from many countries, with very tough admissions. The large campus had classrooms, temples, meditation centers, and a huge library with valuable books. Its main building, Ratnasagara, was nine stories tall. Sadly, Bakhtiyar Khilji later destroyed this grand university.

Exam Tip: When summarizing data, ensure all key facts are included and presented in a coherent, flowing paragraph, using appropriate connectors to link ideas.

Exam-Oriented

1. Read the extracts and answer the questions.

The devs and asurs were always fighting each other. The devs were from amongst the gods. The asurs were demons. The asurs were powerful, capable of all kinds of wickedness. Some of them were great rulers and mighty kings.

Question 1. Who were always fighting against each other ?
Answer: The devs and the asurs were always fighting against each other.
In simple words: The devs and asurs were consistently fighting each other.

Exam Tip: For direct questions, always identify the main subjects and the core action they perform.

Question 2. Who were the gods and who were the demons ?
Answer: The devs were the gods and the asurs were the demons.
In simple words: The devs were considered gods, while the asurs were considered demons.

Exam Tip: Define both terms clearly when asked to identify who they were.

Question 3. What is said about the asurs in this passage?
Answer: The asurs were powerful and wicked, and some of them were great rulers and mighty kings.
In simple words: The passage describes asurs as mighty, evil, and includes some who were powerful leaders.

Exam Tip: Summarize key characteristics mentioned in the text without adding external information.

In their fight with the devs, the asurs had an advantage. They had on their side a great saint and teacher, Shukracharya, who knew the mantra or magic formula for bringing dead people back to life. He restored to life many asurs who were killed in the battles against the devs.

Question 1. What advantage did the asurs have ?
Answer: The asurs had a great advantage because they had Shukracharya on their side, who could bring dead people back to life.
In simple words: Asurs had an advantage because their teacher, Shukracharya, could bring people back to life.

Exam Tip: Identify the unique skill or resource that gave one side an edge in the conflict.

Question 2. What did Shukracharya know?
Answer: Shukracharya knew the magic mantra for bringing dead people back to life.
In simple words: Shukracharya possessed a special chant that could revive deceased individuals.

Exam Tip: State the specific knowledge or skill clearly as mentioned in the passage.

Question 3. Who was Shukracharya ?
Answer: Shukracharya was a great saint and a teacher.
In simple words: Shukracharya was a revered holy man and an instructor.

Exam Tip: Provide the primary roles or titles given to the character in the text.

Question 4. Shukracharya restored to life
Answer: Shukracharya restored to life many asurs who were killed in the battles against the devs.
In simple words: He brought back to life many asurs who had died fighting the devs.

Exam Tip: Specify who was revived and in what context.

The devs did not have anybody who knew that mantra. They went to their chief adviser, Brihaspati and sought his help. But Brihaspati said, “I do not know the science of giving life to the dead. Only Shukracharya knows it. Somebody from your side should go to him and stay with him as his student and learn the secret.” “We have nobody with us to undertake such a difficult task. But we feel that your own son, Kach, would be the best choice for this purpose." Brihaspati thought for a while and then said, “Yes, let Kach go."

Question 1. What did Brihaspati advise the devs to do ?
Answer: Brihaspati advised the devs to send someone to Shukracharya to learn the secret of bringing dead people back to life.
In simple words: Brihaspati suggested the devs send someone to Shukracharya to learn the revival secret.

Exam Tip: Focus on the core instruction given by Brihaspati to the devs.

Question 2. Who was Brihaspati ?
Answer: Brihaspati was the chief adviser of the devs.
In simple words: Brihaspati served as the main adviser to the devs.

Exam Tip: State the character's role or relationship as described in the passage.

Question 3. What did the devs feel?
Answer: The devs felt that Brihaspati's son Kach was the best person to go to Shukracharya and learn the secret mantra.
In simple words: The devs believed Kach, Brihaspati's son, was the ideal choice to learn the magic spell from Shukracharya.

Exam Tip: Express the collective opinion or sentiment of the 'devs' regarding Kach.

The devs called Kach and asked him if he could render them his service. They said, "Go to Shukracharya and be with him as his disciple for as long as is necessary to learn the science of raising the dead. Serve him with all devotion. You may also be friendly with Devayani, his beautiful daughter. That will help you in attaining your objective.”

Question 1. What did the devs request Kach ?
Answer: The devs requested Kach to go to Shukracharya and live with him as his disciple for as long as it was necessary to learn the science of raising the dead.
In simple words: The devs asked Kach to become Shukracharya's student to learn how to bring people back to life.

Exam Tip: Highlight the main objective of Kach's mission and his role as a disciple.

Question 2. What did the devs advise Kach?
Answer: The devs advised Kach to serve Shukracharya with all devotion and to be friendly with his beautiful daughter Devayani to attain his objective.
In simple words: Kach was told to serve Shukracharya devotedly and befriend Devayani to achieve his goal.

Exam Tip: Include all key advice points, such as devotion and friendly relations, as they contribute to the mission.

Kach promised to do his best to fulfil his mission. He took leave of the devs and went to Shukracharya's hermitage. The great sage received him with all kindness. “O great teacher," said Kach, “I am Kach, the son of Brihaspati. I want to be your student. I am eager to gain knowledge of sanjivani vidya at your feet.” “Are you the son of Brihaspati?" asked Shukracharya. “If so, what can I teach you that your father can't. Anyway, you have come to me in search of knowledge. I shall be happy to help you in whatever way I can.” "I shall be at your service from now on,” said Kach.

Question 1. What did Kach promise the devs ?
Answer: Kach promised the devs that he would do his utmost to fulfil his mission.
In simple words: Kach assured the devs he would try his best to complete his task.

Exam Tip: State Kach's commitment to his assigned duty clearly.

Question 2. How did Shukracharya welcome Kach ?
Answer: Shukracharya welcomed Kach with complete kindness.
In simple words: Shukracharya greeted Kach very kindly.

Exam Tip: Describe the sage's reception of Kach using appropriate adjectives.

Question 3. What did Kach request Shukracharya ?
Answer: Kach requested Shukracharya to accept him as his student and teach him the sanjivani vidya.
In simple words: Kach asked Shukracharya to take him as a pupil and teach him the art of revival.

Exam Tip: Clearly state Kach's dual request: acceptance as a student and instruction in the specific knowledge.

Question 4. What did Shukracharya tell Kach when he came to know that he was Brihaspati's son ?
Answer: When Shukracharya discovered that Kach was Brihaspati's son, he told him that there was nothing he could teach him that his father could not.
In simple words: Shukracharya remarked that he couldn't teach Kach anything his own father hadn't already.

Exam Tip: Explain Shukracharya's initial reaction and statement regarding Kach's lineage.

"You need not do any heavy work here,” said Shukracharya. “You can help me in my prayers by bringing flowers from the jungle. You can also bring firewood for my sacrificial fire and you can look after my cows, take them out for grazing and bring them back when they are fed." "I shall try to do everything to your satisfaction,” said Kach.

Question 1. What kind of work did Shukracharya assign to Kach ?
Answer: Shukracharya asked Kach to bring flowers for his prayers, collect firewood for his sacrificial fire, and look after his cows, taking them for grazing and bringing them back once fed.
In simple words: Kach was assigned to collect flowers, gather firewood for rituals, and tend to the cows by grazing them.

Exam Tip: List all the duties assigned to Kach, ensuring no task is omitted.

Question 2. What did Kach assure Shukracharya?
Answer: Kach assured Shukracharya that he would perform everything to his satisfaction.
In simple words: Kach promised Shukracharya he would do all tasks perfectly.

Exam Tip: State Kach's promise of complete dedication and satisfactory service.

Thus, Kach began to live with Shukracharya. Because of his keen devotion and good service, he won the favour of Shukracharya. Kach was young, handsome and very intelligent, and no wonder Devayani fell in love with him at first sight. But Kach was a student and he could not respond to her love. All the same Kach liked her and considered her a friend. He gathered flowers and fruits for her and helped her in her household duties. Sometimes they would wander about the jungles and at times they sang and danced together.

Question 1. How did Kach win the favour of Shukracharya ?
Answer: Kach won the favour of Shukracharya with his keen devotion and good service.
In simple words: Kach pleased Shukracharya through his strong dedication and excellent work.

Exam Tip: Identify the specific virtues and actions that earned Kach Shukracharya's approval.

Question 2. Which qualities of Kach attracted Devayani towards him ?
Answer: Kach was young, handsome, and intelligent, and these qualities attracted Devayani towards him.
In simple words: Devayani was drawn to Kach because he was youthful, attractive, and clever.

Exam Tip: List the physical and intellectual attributes of Kach that Devayani found appealing.

Question 3. Kach did not respond to Devayani's love because
Answer: Kach did not respond to Devayani's love because he was a student.
In simple words: Kach did not return Devayani's love because he was focused on his studies.

Exam Tip: State the primary reason Kach gave for not reciprocating Devayani's feelings.

Question 4. What feelings did Kach have for Devayani ?
Answer: Kach liked Devayani and considered her a friend.
In simple words: Kach felt friendly affection for Devayani.

Exam Tip: Clearly distinguish between love and friendship when describing characters' emotions.

Question 5. How did Kach help Devayani ?
Answer: Kach gathered flowers and fruits for Devayani and helped her in her household duties.
In simple words: Kach helped Devayani by collecting flowers and fruits and assisting with house chores.

Exam Tip: List the specific ways Kach assisted Devayani in her daily life.

Question 6. What would Kach and Devayani do together ?
Answer: Kach and Devayani would often wander in the jungles and sing and dance together.
In simple words: They would explore forests, sing, and dance as companions.

Exam Tip: Describe the shared activities that Kach and Devayani enjoyed.

In course of time, the asurs found out why Kach was staying with Shukracharya. They did not want the secret of reviving dead people to be known to the devs and, therefore, they decided to remove Kach from Shukracharya's hermitage for good. That could only be done by killing him. One day, when Kach was taking his master's cows to the jungle, the asurs waylaid him and killed him. But they had to do away with his body. They were afraid that Shukracharya might revive Kach. So, they cut his body into pieces and gave the pieces to wolves and jackals.

Question 1. What did the asurs come to know?
Answer: The asurs found out why Kach was staying with Shukracharya.
In simple words: Asurs learned the reason behind Kach's presence at Shukracharya's place.

Exam Tip: State the primary piece of information the asurs discovered about Kach.

Question 2. Why did the asurs decide to remove Kach from the hermitage ?
Answer: The asurs decided to remove Kach from the hermitage because they did not want the devs to learn the secret of reviving dead people.
In simple words: They wanted to prevent the devs from learning the secret of bringing people back to life.

Exam Tip: Explain the asurs' motivation, focusing on their desire to maintain their advantage.

Question 3. The only way to remove Kach from the hermitage was
Answer: The only way to remove Kach from the hermitage was by killing him.
In simple words: The asurs believed killing Kach was the only way to get rid of him.

Exam Tip: State the method the asurs deemed necessary to eliminate Kach from the hermitage.

Question 4. What did the asurs do when Kach was taking the cows to the jungle ?
Answer: When Kach was taking the cows to the jungle, the asurs waylaid him and killed him.
In simple words: The asurs ambushed and killed Kach while he was tending the cows in the forest.

Exam Tip: Describe the specific action taken by the asurs and its immediate consequence.

Question 5. What did the asurs do with Kach's body ?
Answer: The asurs cut Kach's body into pieces and gave the pieces to wolves and jackals.
In simple words: They dismembered Kach's body and fed it to wild animals.

Exam Tip: Detail the gruesome fate of Kach's body at the hands of the asurs.

Question 6. Why did the asurs cut Kach's body, into pieces and feed it to the wolves ?
Answer: The asurs cut Kach's body into pieces and fed it to the wolves so that Shukracharya would not be able to bring him back to life.
In simple words: They dismembered Kach's body and fed it to wolves to prevent Shukracharya from reviving him.

Exam Tip: Explain the underlying reason for the asurs' extreme actions to ensure Kach could not be revived.

In the evening, Devayani was waiting for Kach, but the cows returned home without him. Devayani was upset. She went to her father and said, "The sun has set, the cows have returned home, Kach has not come. He is either lost or dead. O father, bring Kach back. I cannot live without him.” Shukracharya considered for a while as to what could have happened to Kach. He felt that Kach was dead and said, “I shall bring him back to life. Wait a little."

Question 1. Why was Devayani upset ?
Answer: Devayani was upset because the cows returned home in the evening without Kach.
In simple words: Devayani felt sad because Kach didn't return with the cows in the evening.

Exam Tip: Connect Devayani's emotion directly to the specific event that caused it.

Question 2. What did Devayani tell her father?
Answer: Devayani told her father that Kach was either lost or dead and that he should bring him back because she could not live without him.
In simple words: Devayani asked her father to bring Kach back, saying she couldn't live without him if he was lost or dead.

Exam Tip: Include both Devayani's concern about Kach's state and her plea to her father.

Question 3. What did Shukracharya feel ?
Answer: Shukracharya felt that Kach was dead.
In simple words: Shukracharya sensed that Kach had passed away.

Exam Tip: State Shukracharya's immediate understanding or intuition about Kach's condition.

Question 4. What did Shukracharya tell Devayani ?
Answer: Shukracharya told Devayani to wait until he brought Kach back to life.
In simple words: Shukracharya asked Devayani to be patient while he revived Kach.

Exam Tip: Focus on the instruction Shukracharya gave to Devayani regarding Kach's revival.

Then he silently said the secret mantra or magic formula. At once Kach appeared before the master. When Devayani asked him why he was late, he said, “The asurs killed me, cut my body into pieces and fed the wolves and jackals with them. When the great saint, your father, summoned me, I came out of the wolves and jackals, tearing their bodies, and now I stand before you."

Question 1. How did Kach appear before Shukracharya ?
Answer: Shukracharya silently recited the secret mantra, and immediately Kach appeared before him.
In simple words: After Shukracharya whispered the magic words, Kach instantly appeared.

Exam Tip: Describe the sequence of events: the mantra's use and Kach's sudden appearance.

Question 2. What happened when Shukracharya said the secret mantra ?
Answer: When Shukracharya uttered the secret mantra, Kach tore the bodies of the wolves and jackals and came out and stood before Devayani.
In simple words: The magic words made Kach emerge from the animals' bodies to stand before Devayani.

Exam Tip: Detail the specific actions Kach took upon being revived by the mantra.

Kach continued to live with Shukracharya and Devayani. But the asurs did not keep quiet. One day Kach was in the jungle collecting flowers when the asurs caught him. They killed him and grinding his body into a paste, they mixed it with the waters of the ocean.Devayani was again in despair when Kach did not return from the jungle. She told her father that she would not wish to live unless Kach was brought back. Again Shukracharya, with his magic spell, brought Kach back.

Question 1. What did the asurs do with Kach ?
Answer: The asurs killed Kach, ground his body into a paste, and mixed it with the ocean's waters.
In simple words: Asurs killed Kach, made his body into a paste, and mixed it with seawater.

Exam Tip: Describe the extreme measures taken by the asurs to prevent Kach's revival.

Question 2. When Kach did not return, Devayani was in
Answer: When Kach did not return, Devayani was in despair.
In simple words: Devayani felt hopeless when Kach failed to return.

Exam Tip: Identify the specific emotional state Devayani experienced when Kach was missing.

Question 3. What did Devayani tell her father ?
Answer: Devayani told her father that she would not wish to live unless Kach was brought back.
In simple words: Devayani declared she would rather not live if Kach wasn't revived.

Exam Tip: State Devayani's ultimatum to her father regarding Kach's return.

Question 4. What did Shukracharya do ?
Answer: Shukracharya used his magic spell and brought Kach back.
In simple words: Shukracharya revived Kach using his magical power.

Exam Tip: Describe Shukracharya's action in response to Devayani's plea and Kach's fate.

The asurs were very disappointed at their failures. They thought of a plan to dispose of Kach in such a way that Shukracharya would never be able to bring him back to life. The asurs caught Kach the third time. They killed him and burnt his body. They collected the ashes and mixed the ashes with the divine wine that Shukracharya drank. When Kach was missing again, Devayani said to her father, “Father, Kach went out to gather firewood but he has not come back. Surely he is lost or dead.”

Question 1. What did the asurs plan ?
Answer: The asurs planned to dispose of Kach in a way that Shukracharya would never be able to bring him back.
In simple words: The asurs planned to get rid of Kach permanently so Shukracharya couldn't revive him.

Exam Tip: Highlight the asurs' intention to make Kach's revival impossible after their previous failures.

Question 2. The asurs were disappointed
Answer: The asurs were disappointed at their failures.
In simple words: The asurs felt let down because their attempts had failed.

Exam Tip: State the specific cause of the asurs' disappointment clearly.

Question 3. What did the asurs do to Kach the third time ?
Answer: The asurs killed Kach, burnt his body, and mixed the ashes with the divine wine that Shukracharya drank.
In simple words: For the third time, asurs killed Kach, burned him, and put his ashes in Shukracharya's wine.

Exam Tip: Detail the three specific actions taken by the asurs during their third attempt to kill Kach.

Shukracharya meditated for a while and said, “Yes, Kach is dead and now it is difficult for me to bring him back to life. I am helpless now. Whenever I bring him back to life he is slain again. O Devayani, do not grieve, do not cry. You should not distress yourself for a mortal. Gods are aware of your beauty. Anyone of them may propose to you.” But Devayani said, “How can I not grieve for the death of one whom I love ? He was handsome. He was great and he was young. No god will be like him. I will starve myself to death and follow him."

Question 1. What did Shukracharya advise Devayani not to do?
Answer: Shukracharya advised Devayani not to grieve, cry, or distress herself for a mortal like Kach.
In simple words: Shukracharya told Devayani not to feel sorrow or worry over a mere human like Kach.

Exam Tip: List all the negative emotions or actions Shukracharya told Devayani to avoid.

Question 2. Why was Shukracharya helpless?
Answer: Shukracharya was helpless because it was difficult for him to bring Kach back to life.
In simple words: Shukracharya felt powerless because reviving Kach had become very challenging.

Exam Tip: Explain the direct cause of Shukracharya's feeling of helplessness regarding Kach.

Question 3. Why did Shukracharya say that any god would propose to Devayani?
Answer: Shukracharya said that any god would propose to Devayani because they were aware of her beauty.
In simple words: He believed Devayani's beauty would attract proposals from any god.

Exam Tip: Connect Shukracharya's statement to Devayani's beauty and its perceived effect on gods.

Question 4. Why did Devayani grieve for Kach ?
Answer: Devayani grieved for Kach because she loved him.
In simple words: Devayani was sad for Kach because she had deep feelings for him.

Exam Tip: State the primary emotion Devayani felt for Kach that led to her grief.

Question 5. What did Devayani say about Kach?
Answer: Devayani said that Kach was young, handsome, and great, and no god would be like him.
In simple words: Devayani described Kach as youthful, attractive, and important, stating no god could compare to him.

Exam Tip: List the positive attributes Devayani used to describe Kach and her high regard for him.

Question 6. What did Devayani threaten to do ?
Answer: Devayani threatened to starve herself to death and follow Kach.
In simple words: Devayani threatened to die of hunger and follow Kach's fate.

Exam Tip: Identify the drastic action Devayani threatened to take due to her grief.

Shukracharya was sorry for his daughter and angry with the asurs who slew a disciple under his care. At Devayani's request, he began summoning Kach back from death. Kach answered in a low voice from his stomach. “I am Kach,” he said. “I was killed by the asurs, who burnt my body and mixed the ashes with the divine wine that you have drunk. Be gentle to me, O my master. Consider me as your son as I am now part of you."

Question 1. Why was Shukracharya angry with the asurs ?
Answer: Shukracharya was angry with the asurs because they had killed a disciple under his care.
In simple words: Shukracharya felt angry with the asurs for killing his student.

Exam Tip: Explain the specific reason for Shukracharya's anger, highlighting his responsibility as a guru.

Question 2. At Devayani's request
Answer: At Devayani's request, Shukracharya began summoning Kach back from death.
In simple words: Shukracharya started calling Kach back from the dead after Devayani asked him to.

Exam Tip: Explain the immediate action Shukracharya took in response to Devayani's plea.

Question 3. Where was Kach?
Answer: Kach was in Shukracharya's stomach.
In simple words: Kach was inside Shukracharya's stomach.

Exam Tip: State the unusual location of Kach after the asurs' final attempt to dispose of him.

Question 4. What did Kach request Shukracharya ?
Answer: Kach requested Shukracharya to be gentle to him and consider him as his son, as he was a part of him.
In simple words: Kach asked Shukracharya to be gentle and see him as a son, being now inside him.

Exam Tip: Include both parts of Kach's request: gentle handling and fatherly recognition.

Then Shukracharya said to Devayani, “What can I do now ? Kach is within me. Either I live or Kach lives. Both of us cannot exist together hereafter.” “If Kach dies," said Devayani, "I will not live, and if you die I also die.” Shukracharya was in a fix. He said to Kach, "Victory is yours. Since Devayani looks on you with such kindness, receive from me the magic mantra, or the secret of bringing back the dead to life. When you come out of me, try the mantra on my body.”

Question 1. Why was Shukracharya not able to take a decision ?
Answer: Shukracharya was unable to make a decision because Kach was inside him, meaning both could not exist simultaneously.
In simple words: He couldn't choose because Kach was within him, making their co-existence impossible.

Exam Tip: Explain the dilemma Shukracharya faced, which was the core conflict of his decision-making.

Question 2. What did Devayani tell her father?
Answer: Devayani told her father that if Kach died, she would not live, and if Shukracharya died, she would also die.
In simple words: Devayani warned her father that she would die if either Kach or he passed away.

Exam Tip: Highlight Devayani's desperate plea and her declaration of shared fate with both Kach and her father.

Question 3. What did Shukracharya tell Kach ?
Answer: Shukracharya told Kach to receive the magic mantra and, upon emerging from him, to try the mantra on Shukracharya's body.
In simple words: Shukracharya instructed Kach to learn the spell and use it to revive him once Kach was free.

Exam Tip: Detail the instructions Shukracharya gave Kach for both learning and applying the mantra.

Then Shukracharya taught Kach the secret mantra and asked him to come out of his stomach. Kach appeared in all his brilliance, and saw his teacher lying dead. He immediately revived him with his newly learnt mantra.Kach then paid homage to him, calling him father, as he was newborn out of him.

Question 1. What did Shukracharya do ?
Answer: Shukracharya taught Kach the secret mantra and asked him to emerge from his stomach.
In simple words: Shukracharya taught Kach the magic spell and told him to come out of his body.

Exam Tip: Describe the two main actions Shukracharya took at this critical moment.

Question 2. What did Kach do?
Answer: Kach emerged from Shukracharya's stomach and immediately revived him with his newly learned mantra.
In simple words: Kach came out of Shukracharya and instantly brought him back to life using the new spell.

Exam Tip: Explain Kach's actions upon his rebirth and the immediate use of his new knowledge.

Question 3. What did Kach do after reviving Shukracharya ?
Answer: After reviving Shukracharya, Kach paid homage to him, addressing him as father because he was reborn from him.
In simple words: Kach bowed to Shukracharya, calling him father because he was born from him.

Exam Tip: Describe Kach's respectful gesture and the reasoning behind his addressing Shukracharya as father.

Kach stayed for some more time and then sought the blessings of his master to return home. Shukracharya gave Kach permission to leave, but Devayani, seeing him about to depart, said to him, "Don't go away. You know how I have loved you from the time you were a student. Now that you have completed your studies it is time you should return my love and marry me." Kach said, “I respect you very much. You are dearer than life to me. But you are my sister. Both of us came out of your father. All my love for you is a brother's love for a sister."

Question 1. Kach sought Shukracharya's blessings
Answer: Kach sought Shukracharya's blessings to return home.
In simple words: Kach asked for his master's permission and blessing to go home.

Exam Tip: State the purpose of Kach seeking Shukracharya's blessings, emphasizing his desire to return home.

Question 2. What did Devayani tell Kach?
Answer: Devayani told Kach not to go because she loved him, and since he had finished his studies, he should return her love and marry her.
In simple words: Devayani asked Kach to stay and marry her, reminding him of her love and his completed studies.

Exam Tip: Include both Devayani's desire for Kach to stay and her expectation of marriage as a return for her love.

Question 3. What did Kach tell Devayani?
Answer: Kach told Devayani that his love for her was a brother's love for a sister because both of them came out of her father, Shukracharya.
In simple words: Kach explained he loved her like a sister because they were both born from Shukracharya.

Exam Tip: Clearly state Kach's reasoning for not accepting Devayani's love, emphasizing their shared origin.

Question 1. Kach's love for Devayani was a brother's love for a sister because
Answer: Kach's love for Devayani was a brother's love for a sister because both of them came out of her father, Shukracharya. This meant they shared a parentage.
In simple words: Kach saw Devayani as his sister because they were both created by Shukracharya.

Exam Tip: Clearly state the primary reason for Kach's feelings, connecting it to the familial relationship established through Shukracharya.

Question 2. What did Devayani tell Kach about her love for him ?
Answer: Devayani told Kach that it was her deep affection for him that had saved him from demise three times. She emphasized that her love was genuine and had consistently protected him.
In simple words: Devayani reminded Kach that she loved him deeply and this love had saved his life multiple times.

Exam Tip: When answering about character statements, use their exact words or a very close paraphrase if it's crucial for the context, otherwise summarize the core message.

Question 3. Devayani told Kach not to
Answer: Devayani told Kach not to disregard her and asked him to accept her as his wife. She wanted him to reciprocate her feelings and commitment.
In simple words: Devayani asked Kach to not leave her and to marry her.

Exam Tip: Focus on the specific negative action (discard) and the desired positive action (accept as wife) when framing this type of answer.

Question 4. Why did Kach say that it was a sin to marry Devayani ?
Answer: Kach said that it was a sin to marry Devayani because she was his sister, as both of them had come out of her father, Shukracharya. He considered them siblings by creation.
In simple words: Kach believed marrying Devayani was wrong because they were both from Shukracharya, making them like brother and sister.

Exam Tip: Highlight the direct family relationship as perceived by Kach, emphasizing the shared parentage from Shukracharya.

Question 5. Kach was sure that
Answer: Kach was confident that he could not be persuaded into committing sin. He trusted his own moral strength and resolve not to marry Devayani, despite her pleas.
In simple words: Kach was certain he wouldn't be tempted to do anything wrong.

Exam Tip: When describing a character's certainty, use strong verbs and clearly state what they were confident about.

Question 6. Kach requested Devayani to continue their relationship
Answer: Kach requested Devayani to continue their connection as a sister and brother. He preferred to maintain their bond as siblings rather than transitioning into a marital relationship.
In simple words: Kach asked Devayani to keep being like a sister and brother.

Exam Tip: For requests, specify the desired outcome and the nature of the relationship being proposed by the character.

Question 1. Why did Devayani curse Kach ?
Answer: Devayani cursed Kach because he refused to marry her, and she believed that he had betrayed her trust. She felt rejected and wronged by his decision.
In simple words: Devayani cursed Kach because he would not marry her and she felt he had cheated her.

Exam Tip: When explaining a character's actions, provide both the immediate cause (refusal) and the underlying emotion (betrayal of trust).

Question 2. Why was Devayani disappointed?
Answer: Devayani was disappointed because Kach only loved her as a sister, and he promised her that he would not commit a sin by marrying her. This dashed her hopes for a romantic relationship.
In simple words: Devayani was sad because Kach only saw her as a sister and would not marry her.

Exam Tip: Explain disappointment by contrasting the character's expectations with the actual outcome, mentioning key statements from the other character.

Question 3. What did Devayani curse Kach ?
Answer: Devayani cursed Kach that he would not be able to apply what he had learned. Her curse specifically targeted his acquired knowledge, making it useless in practice.
In simple words: Devayani cursed Kach so that he would not be able to use his learned knowledge.

Exam Tip: State the exact consequence of the curse as mentioned in the text, focusing on its specific impact.

Question 4. Kach thought that Devayani cursed him because of
Answer: Kach thought that Devayani cursed him because of her strong feelings. He understood that her intense love and emotional distress led to the curse.
In simple words: Kach believed Devayani cursed him because of her intense emotions.

Exam Tip: Identify the underlying emotion or motivation that Kach perceived as the cause of Devayani's actions.

Question 5. How would Kach make his knowledge useful?
Answer: Kach would make his knowledge useful by giving it to someone else. Despite Devayani's curse, he intended to ensure his learning served a purpose through teaching.
In simple words: Kach planned to use his knowledge by teaching it to someone else.

Exam Tip: Focus on the method Kach chose to circumvent the curse and ensure his knowledge was utilized.

2. Frame Sentences Using The Given Set Of Words. You May Change The Forms Of The Words.

(1) capable of - mighty
Answer: Our wrestlers are capable of defeating the strongest wrestlers in the world.
In simple words: Our wrestlers are strong enough to beat the best in the world.

Exam Tip: Ensure that the sentence clearly shows the meaning of both words in context, and that any changes in word form are grammatically correct.

(2) as long as - serve
Answer: Ramu has promised to help his old master for as long as he lives. He will continue his service indefinitely.
In simple words: Ramu promised to help his old master for his whole life.

Exam Tip: Use "as long as" to indicate duration, and ensure "serve" implies providing assistance or loyalty.

(3) in search of - take leave of
Answer: Lakshman took leave of King Dashrath to go in search of Rama and Sita. He embarked on a journey to find them.
In simple words: Lakshman asked King Dashrath for permission to leave to find Rama and Sita.

Exam Tip: Demonstrate understanding of both idioms by integrating them into a coherent sentence, showing cause and effect.

(4) passion - attain - objective
Answer: The youth must have the strong desire to achieve their goal in life. They need this drive to succeed.
In simple words: Young people need to be very eager to reach their main aim in life.

Exam Tip: Connect the three words logically, showing how "passion" drives one to "attain" an "objective."

(5) undertake - mission
Answer: The army has decided to carry out a very dangerous assignment to catch the terrorists. This vital mission requires courage.
In simple words: The army took on a risky job to catch the terrorists.

Exam Tip: Use "undertake" to mean initiating a task and "mission" to refer to a specific, important objective.

(6) win the favour - satisfaction
Answer: I promise you that I will work to your approval and soon gain your support. Your happiness with my efforts is important.
In simple words: I promise to work well so you are happy and I earn your approval quickly.

Exam Tip: Show how one action (winning favour) leads to or results from the other (satisfaction).

(7) respond - in despair
Answer: When Mr Verma's son did not reply - to his phone calls, he was filled with extreme sadness. His silence caused deep distress.
In simple words: When Mr Verma's son didn't answer his calls, he felt very sad.

Exam Tip: Use "respond" to show communication and "in despair" to describe a state of hopelessness or deep sadness.

(8) disappoint - refuse
Answer: Jatin was very disheartened when his friend said no to helping him. The denial caused him great sadness.
In simple words: Jatin felt very sad when his friend would not help him.

Exam Tip: Link "refuse" as the action causing the feeling of "disappoint."

(9) helpless - permission
Answer: Mohini felt very powerless when she could not get the approval to meet her brother. Without consent, she felt unable to act.
In simple words: Mohini felt unable to do anything when she couldn't get approval to see her brother.

Exam Tip: Show how the lack of "permission" leads to a state of "helplessness."

(10) pay homage - passion
Answer: We must show respect to all those who fought enthusiastically to free India from the British rule. Their dedication was immense.
In simple words: We should honor everyone who fought hard to make India free from British rule.

Exam Tip: "Pay homage" means to show deep respect, and "passion" implies strong emotion or enthusiasm. Combine them to create a meaningful statement.

3. Fill In The Blanks Selecting The Correct Words From The Brackets.

(1) (service, permission, respect, honour)
Answer: Jay went to the principal to take his permission to hold a function to honour the brave soldiers of the village. It was to show the soldiers how much the people respect them and appreciate their great service to the nation.
In simple words: Jay asked the principal for approval to hold an event to show honor and respect to the village's brave soldiers for their excellent service to the country.

Exam Tip: Carefully read the context of the sentence to choose the most appropriate word that fits the meaning and grammatical structure.

(2) (knowledge, accept, eager, refused)
Answer: Eklavya was eager to gain the knowledge of archery from Dronacharya. But Dronacharya refused to accept him as his disciple.
In simple words: Eklavya really wanted to learn archery from Dronacharya, but Dronacharya would not take him as a student.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to synonyms and antonyms within the brackets to ensure the best fit. "Eager" and "refused" show the contrast in intent.

(3) (mighty, disappointed, wickedness, trust)
Answer: The powerful king was known for his bad deeds. Even his own brother did not trust him. He was disappointed with the king.
In simple words: The strong king was known for his evil. Even his brother didn't trust him, and was upset with him.

Exam Tip: The words in brackets often highlight thematic elements. Choose words that maintain the narrative and emotional tone of the sentence.

(4) (objective, devote, gain, attain)
Answer: You cannot get anything without hard work. You have to dedicate a lot of time and effort to achieve your goal in life.
In simple words: You need to work hard and commit a lot of time to reach your life's goal.

Exam Tip: Understand the sequence of actions: "devote" leads to "gain" or "attain" an "objective."

(5) (revive, distress, requested, grieve)
Answer: When Devayani asked Shukracharya to bring Kach back to life, Shukracharya told her not to feel sad for Kach. "Do not worry yourself for a mortal," he said.
In simple words: When Devayani asked Shukracharya to revive Kach, he told her not to mourn for someone mortal.

Exam Tip: Select words that reflect the emotional state and actions of the characters, ensuring consistency with the story's events.

(6) (fulfill, upset, failures, plan)
Answer: You should not be afraid of setbacks. Do not be sad if you cannot achieve your dreams. Think about your errors and " plan again.
In simple words: Do not fear mistakes. Don't be sad if dreams aren't met. Think about what went wrong and make a new plan.

Exam Tip: The words here offer advice. Choose those that form a coherent and encouraging message about overcoming challenges.

(7) (assured, summoned, helpless, silently)
Answer: The principal called the boys and asked them who had played mischief. The boys stood quietly. The principal promised them that he would not punish anyone. But the boys stood there as if they were unable to do anything.
In simple words: The principal called the boys and asked about the mischief. The boys were quiet. The principal promised no punishment, but they looked unable to help themselves.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to the sequence of events and the emotional states conveyed by the words. "Summoned" and "helpless" describe the interaction.

(8) (pleading, despair, cursed, deserve)
Answer: The sage was so angry with the king that he spoke harsh words to him. The king was in deep sadness. He did not merit this. But his earnest request had no effect on the sage.
In simple words: The sage was so angry with the king that he cursed him. The king was very sad and felt he didn't deserve it, but his pleas didn't change the sage's mind.

Exam Tip: The words should reflect the intensity of the situation, especially the sage's anger and the king's reaction.

(9) (promised, respond, duty, necessary)
Answer: The secretary thought that it was important to reply to the questions of the parents. It was the responsibility of the school management to help them. He committed to solve all their problems.
In simple words: The secretary felt it was important to answer parents' questions, as it was the school's job to help them, and promised to fix all their issues.

Exam Tip: Ensure the chosen words accurately reflect the obligations and commitments described in the sentence.

(10) (serve, undertook, task, purpose)
Answer: Sardar's only objective in life was to help his country. He accepted the most challenging job of keeping India united.
In simple words: Sardar's main aim was to serve his country, so he took on the hard task of uniting India.

Exam Tip: Clearly link the "purpose" to the "task" and the action of "undertaking" it, showing a strong commitment.

(11) (blessings, capable of, sought, victory)
Answer: Bina requested the good wishes of her parents. She was certain of her win. She knew she was able to defeat her opponent.
In simple words: Bina asked her parents for their good wishes, feeling sure she could beat her opponent and win.

Exam Tip: Connect the act of seeking "blessings" with the confidence of being "capable of" achieving "victory."

4. Write Short Notes Using The Given Questions Points.

Question 1. (1) Kach
(Who was Kach ? - Why did the devs send him to Shukracharya ?-How did he win Shukracharya's favour?-How many times was he killed ?-What happened when he was killed the third time ? - How did he save Shukracharya's life?-Why did he refuse to marry Devayani ?)
Answer: Kach was Brihaspati's son. The devs sent him to Shukracharya to gain the knowledge of sanjivani vidya. He resided in Shukracharya's ashram and helped him with devotion. He earned Shukracharya's approval. When the asurs found out why Kach was staying with Shukracharya, they decided to end his life. Every time they killed him, he was brought back to life by Shukracharya.
When he was brought back to life for the third time, he came out of Shukracharya's stomach. Then he used the magic chant to bring Shukracharya back to life. When he wanted to go home, Devayani asked him to marry her. But Kach refused, stating that he viewed her as a sister because both of them came from the same father, and he did not want to commit a sin by marrying her.
In simple words: Kach, Brihaspati's son, went to Shukracharya to learn magic. He won Shukracharya's favor by serving him. The asurs killed Kach three times, but Shukracharya brought him back. The third time, Kach was reborn from Shukracharya and used magic to save his guru. He refused to marry Devayani because he considered her a sister, as they shared a father.

Exam Tip: Structure short notes chronologically, covering all key points. Begin with identification, then motivations, actions, and key events, concluding with significant decisions and their reasons.

Question 2. (2) Devayani
(fell in love with Kach - deep love -requested her father to bring him back ) to life whenever he was killed - proposed him to marry her-did all that because of her love for him - Kach refused - got angry - cursed him)
Answer: Devayani was Shukracharya's daughter. She developed a deep affection for the youthful, attractive, and clever Kach. She was intensely in love with him. So, whenever the asurs killed Kach, Devayani would ask her father Shukracharya to bring him back to life. When Kach desired to go back home, Devayani asked him to marry her and give her his affection.
However, Kach informed her that he loved her as a sister. Devayani reminded him that her strong feelings had saved his life three times. But Kach stated that he would not commit a sin by marrying his sister. Devayani became very angry. She spoke harsh words to him, saying that he would not be able to apply what he had learned.
In simple words: Devayani, Shukracharya's daughter, fell deeply in love with Kach due to his charm and intelligence. She always asked her father to revive him when he was killed. She later asked Kach to marry her, but he refused, seeing her as a sister. This made her angry, and she cursed him, saying he would lose his knowledge.

Exam Tip: For character-based short notes, describe their key relationships, motivations, actions, and reactions. Use adjectives to capture their personality and emotional states.

Question 3. (3) The asurs' attempts to kill Kach
(knew the reason - first attempt - cut his body into pieces - fed the wolves and jackals - second time - ground his body-threw into the ocean - third attempt - burnt his dead body-mixed the ashes ; with wine)
Answer: When the asurs discovered why Kach was living with Shukracharya, they decided to kill him. One day, when Kach was grazing the cattle in the forest, the asurs attacked him. They cut his body into pieces and gave the parts to the wolves and jackals. But Shukracharya brought Kach back to life with his magic spell.
One day, when Kach was gathering flowers, the asurs again killed him. They ground his body into a paste and mixed it with the waters of the ocean. But again Shukracharya brought Kach back to life. When the asurs killed Kach for the third time, they burned his body and mixed the ashes with the holy wine that Shukracharya drank.
In simple words: The asurs wanted to stop Kach from learning Shukracharya's magic. First, they killed him, cut his body, and fed it to animals. Second, they killed him, ground his body, and threw it in the ocean. Third, they killed him, burned his body, and mixed his ashes into Shukracharya's wine. Each time, Shukracharya revived him.

Exam Tip: Detail each attempt clearly, including the method used and the outcome, to show the asurs' persistence and Shukracharya's power.

Question 4. (4) Kach's Life in the Hermitage
(How did he serve Shukracharya -What work did Shukracharya assign to him - Why did Devayani fall in love with him - Why could he not respond to her love - How did he help Devayani - What did they do together ?)
Answer: Kach assisted Shukracharya with sincere dedication and earned his approval. He helped Shukracharya in his prayers by bringing blossoms from the forest. He would also collect wood for the ritual fire. Kach took care of the cows, taking them out for feeding and bringing them back when they were full.
Kach was young, attractive, and very intelligent, and Devayani developed feelings for him right away. But Kach was a learner, so he could not return her feelings. He liked her and considered her a friend. He gathered flowers and fruits for her and also helped her with chores. Sometimes they would wander around the forests and sing and dance together.
In simple words: Kach faithfully served Shukracharya by collecting flowers, firewood, and tending cows. Devayani fell in love with him because he was handsome and smart, but Kach couldn't return her love as he was a student and saw her as a friend. He helped her with chores, and they would sometimes explore the jungle, singing and dancing.

Exam Tip: Describe Kach's duties, Devayani's feelings and their basis, Kach's response, and their shared activities to paint a complete picture of his life in the hermitage.

5. Select The Title Of The Read Related With Each Sentence.
(Note: Important sentences of this Read are given here.)
(1) The devs and asurs were always fighting each other.
(2) The asurs were powerful, capable of all kinds of evil acts.
(3) They had on their side a great saint and teacher, Shukracharya, who knew the magic spell or formula for bringing dead people back to life.
(4) He brought many asurs who were killed in the battles against the devs back to life.
(5) The devs did not have anybody who knew that spell.
(6) I do not know the science of giving life to the dead.
(7) Somebody from your side should go to him and stay with him as his student and learn the secret.
(8) Go to Shukracharya and be with him as his student for as long as is necessary to learn the science of bringing the dead.
(9) I am eager to gain knowledge of sanjivani vidya at your feet.
(10) What can I teach you that your father can't.
(11) You can help me in my prayers by bringing flowers from the jungle.
(12) You can also bring firewood for my sacrificial fire and you can look after my cows.
(13) He gathered flowers and fruits for her and helped her in her household duties.
(14) They did not want the secret of reviving dead people to be known to the devs.
(15) They cut his body into pieces and gave the pieces to wolves and jackals.
(16) I shall bring him back to life.
(17) The asurs killed me, cut my body into pieces and fed the wolves and jackals with them.
(18) When the great saint, your father, called me, I came out of the wolves and jackals, tearing their bodies.
(19) They killed him and grinding his body into a paste, they mixed it with the waters of the ocean.
(20) The asurs were very disappointed at their failures.
(21) They collected the ashes and mixed the ashes with the holy wine that Shukracharya drank.
(22) Whenever I bring him back to life he is killed again.
(23) Gods are aware of your beauty. Anyone of them may propose to you.
(24) How can I not grieve for the death of one whom I love ?
(25) I will starve myself to death and follow him.
(26) Shukracharya was sorry for his daughter and angry with the asurs who slew a disciple under his care.
(27) Consider me as your son as I am now part of you.
(28) When you come out of me, try the mantra on my body.
(29) You know how I have loved you from the time you were a student.
(30) Now that you have completed your studies it is time you should return my love and marry me.
(31) Both of us came out of your father.
(32) All my love for you is a brother's love for a sister.
(33) Remember, my love for you saved you from death three times.
(34) We have spent happy days together as sister and brother.
(35) Since you have betrayed my trust, what you have learnt, you will not be able to practice.
(36) I don't merit your curse.

6. Fill In The Blanks Selecting The Correct Words From The Brackets.

(miserable, young, brave, greatest, give up)
Answer: At Siddhartha's birth it was foretold that when the young prince would grow up, he would give up his wealth, his family and his kingdom to become one of the greatest religious leaders. When Siddhartha left his kingdom, his wife was miserable. But she was also brave enough to live without him.
In simple words: When Siddhartha was born, it was predicted that he would give up his wealth, family, and kingdom to become a great religious leader. His wife was sad when he left, but she was also strong enough to live without him.

Exam Tip: Carefully choose words that fit the narrative context and emotional tone of the story, especially when filling in blanks related to character traits or prophecy.

7. Change Into The Reported Speech.

Question 1. (1) Mihir: Can I speak to Vinay ?
Jay: Vinay is not at home. May I know who is speaking ?
Mihir: I am his classmate. My name is Mihir. Please ask Vinay to call me. Jay: I will.
Answer: Mihir asked if he could speak to Vinay. Jay told him that Vinay was not at home and wanted to know who was speaking. Mihir introduced himself and said that he was his classmate. He requested Jay to ask Vinay to call him. Jay said that he would.
In simple words: Mihir asked to talk to Vinay. Jay said Vinay wasn't home and asked who it was. Mihir said he was Vinay's classmate and asked Jay to tell Vinay to call him. Jay agreed.

Exam Tip: When converting direct speech to reported speech, remember to change pronouns, tenses, and time/place references as needed, and use appropriate reporting verbs like 'asked,' 'told,' 'requested,' and 'agreed.'

Question 2. (2) Raghav : Mary, please type this letter.
Mary: Is it urgent ?
Raghav :Yes, it was. It has to be mailed in one hour.
Mary: Do not worry. I will type it in a few minutes.
Answer: Raghav requested Mary to type that letter. Mary asked Raghav if it was urgent. Raghav replied that it was and added that it had to be sent in one hour. Mary asked Raghav not to worry and said that she would type it in a few minutes.
In simple words: Raghav asked Mary to type a letter. Mary asked if it was urgent, and Raghav said yes, it needed to be mailed soon. Mary told Raghav not to worry and said she would type it quickly.

Exam Tip: Pay close attention to commands, questions, and statements, converting them into reported speech while maintaining the original meaning and sequence of dialogue.

Question 3. (3) Father: If you don't take your medicines properly, you will not get well.
Manan: Let's talk about something else.
Father (angrily): Stop behaving like a child.
Manan: I hate medicines. Please stop this topic.
Answer: Father warned Manan that if he didn't take his medicines correctly, he would not get better. Manan suggested that they should discuss something else. Father angrily asked him to stop acting like a child. Manan said that he disliked medicines and requested his father to end that topic.
In simple words: Father told Manan he wouldn't get better without his medicine. Manan wanted to talk about something else. Father angrily told him to stop acting childish. Manan said he hated medicine and asked to change the subject.

Exam Tip: Use appropriate reporting verbs such as 'warned,' 'suggested,' 'angrily asked,' and 'requested' to convey the tone and intention of the original speakers.

Kach & Devayani Summary In Gujarati

દેવો અને અસુરો એકબીજા સાથે હંમેશાં લડતા રહેતા. દેવો ઈશ્વરોમાંના હતા. (અને) અસુરો રાક્ષસો હતા. અસુરો શક્તિશાળી હતા અને દરેક પ્રકારની દુષ્ટતા આચરવા સમર્થ હતા. તેમાંના કેટલાક મહાન શાસક અને શક્તિશાળી રાજાઓ હતા. દેવો સાથેના યુદ્ધમાં અસુરોને એક લાભ હતો. તેમના પક્ષે શુક્રાચાર્ય જેવા એક મહાન સંત અને ગુરુ હતા, જેઓ મૃત વ્યક્તિઓને પુનર્જીવિત કરવાનો મંત્ર અથવા જાદુઈ પ્રયોગ જાણતા હતા. દેવો સાથેના યુદ્ધમાં માર્યા ગયેલા કેટલાય અસુરોને તેમણે પુનર્જીવિત કર્યા હતા.

દેવો પાસે આ મંત્ર જાણતું હોય તેવું કોઈ હતું નહીં. તેઓ તેમના મુખ્ય સલાહકાર બૃહસ્પતિ પાસે ગયા અને તેમની મદદ માગી, પણ બૃહસ્પતિએ કહ્યું, “મૃત પામેલાને પુનર્જીવિત કરવાની વિદ્યા હું જાણતો નથી. માત્ર શુક્રાચાર્ય તે જાણે છે. તમારામાંથી કોઈ તેમની પાસે જઈ, તેમના વિદ્યાર્થી તરીકે રહીને આ રહસ્ય – જાણી લેવું જોઈએ."

“આવું અઘરું કાર્ય પાર પાડવા માટે અમારી પાસે કોઈ નથી. પણ અમને લાગે છે કે તમારો પુત્ર કચ આ કામ માટે શ્રેષ્ઠ પસંદગી છે.”

થોડી વાર વિચાર કરીને બૃહસ્પતિએ કહ્યું, “હા, કચને જવા દો.” દેવોએ કચને બોલાવીને પૂછ્યું કે તે આ કામ માટે તેની સેવા આપી શકશે કે નહીં. તેઓએ કહ્યું, "શુક્રાચાર્ય પાસે જા. અને જરૂર હોય ત્યાં સુધી તેમના શિષ્ય તરીકે રહીને મૃતકોને પુનર્જીવિત કરવાની વિદ્યા શીખી આવ. પૂરા ભક્તિભાવથી તેમની સેવા કરજે. તેમની સુંદર પુત્રી દેવયાની સાથે પણ મૈત્રી કરજે. તારો હેતુ સિદ્ધ કરવામાં તે મદદરૂપ થશે."

{ તેનું આ કાર્ય સિદ્ધ કરવા માટે તે બનતું બધું જ કરી છૂટશે { તેવું વચન કચે આપ્યું. તેણે દેવોની રજા લીધી અને શુક્રાચાર્યના આશ્રમમાં પહોંચી ગયો. તે મહાન સંતે તેનું ભાવપૂર્વક સ્વાગત કર્યું. “હે મહાન ગુરુ,” કચે કહ્યું, “હું બૃહસ્પતિનો પુત્ર કચ હું છું. હું તમારો શિષ્ય થવા માગું છું. તમારા ચરણોમાં બેસીને હું સંજીવની વિદ્યા પ્રાપ્ત કરવા આતુર છું.’

"શું તું બૃહસ્પતિનો પુત્ર છે?” શુક્રાચાર્યે પૂછ્યું. “જો એમ જ હોય, તો તારા પિતા તને ન શીખવી શકે એવું હું તને શું ? શીખવી શકે? જે હોય તે, પણ તું મારી પાસે વિદ્યાની શોધમાં આવ્યો છે. મારાથી બની શકે તે રીતે તેને મદદ કરવામાં મને આનંદ થશે.” “અત્યારથી જ હું આપની સેવામાં હાજર છું,” કચે કહ્યું. તારે અહીં કોઈ શ્રમ કરવાની જરૂર નથી,” શુક્રચાર્યે કહ્યું. “વનમાંથી પુષ્પો લાવીને તું મને મારી પ્રાર્થનામાં મદદ કરી શકે છે. યજ્ઞ માટે તું લાકડાં પણ લાવી શકે છે અને તું મારી ગાયોની સંભાળ પણ રાખી શકે છે, તેમને બહાર ચરવા લઈ જઈ, તેઓ ધરાઈ જાય ત્યારે પાછી લાવવી.” તમને સંતોષ થાય તે રીતે બધું જ કરવાનો હું પ્રયત્ન કરીશ,” કચે કહ્યું.

આમ, કચે શુક્રાચાર્ય સાથે રહેવાનું શરૂ કર્યું. તેની ઉગ્ર ભક્તિ અને સારી સેવાને કારણે તેણે શુક્રાચાર્યનું મન જીતી લીધું. કચ યુવાન, દેખાવડો અને ખૂબ જ બુદ્ધિશાળી હતો અને તેથી દેવયાની પ્રથમ નજરે જ તેના પ્રેમમાં પડી. પણ કરો તો એક વિદ્યાર્થી હતો અને (તેથી) તે તેના પ્રેમનો પ્રતિસાદ આપી ન શક્યો. તેમ છતાં કચને તે પસંદ હતી અને તે તેને સખી માનતો હતો. કરતો અને તેને ઘરકામમાં મદદ કરતો. કેટલીક વાર તેઓ વનમાં ફરતા અને કોઈક વાર તેઓ સાથે ગીતો ગાતા અને નૃત્ય કરતા. સમય જતાં કચ શા માટે શુક્રાચાર્ય સાથે રહે છે, તે અસુરોને ખબર પડી, મૃત વ્યક્તિઓને પુનઃજીવિત કરવાનું રહસ્ય દેવો જાણી જાય તેવું અસુરો ઇચ્છતા ન હતા, અને તેથી તેમણે કચને હંમેશને માટે શુક્રાચાર્યના આશ્રમમાંથી દૂર કરવાનો નિર્ણય કર્યો. અને તે માત્ર તેની હત્યા કરવાથી જ થઈ શકે તેમ હતું.

એક દિવસ કચ જ્યારે તેના ગુરુની ગાયો વનમાં લઈ જતો હતો, ત્યારે અસુરોએ તેના પર હુમલો કરી, તેને મારી નાખ્યો. (પણ) તેમને ડર હતો કે કદાચ શુક્રાચાર્ય કચને પુનર્જીવિત કરે. તેથી તેમણે તેના શરીરના ટુકડા કરી શિયાળો અને વરુઓને ખવરાવી દીધા.

સાંજે, દેવયાની કચની રાહ જોતી હતી, પણ ગાયો તો તેના (ચ) વગર ઘરે પાછી ફરી. દેવયાની ચિંતામાં પડી. તે તેના પિતા પાસે ગઈ અને કહ્યું, “સૂર્યાસ્ત થઈ ગયો છે. ગાયો આશ્રમમાં પાછી ફરી ગઈ છે. (પણ) કચ નથી આવ્યો. તે માર્ગ ભૂલ્યો છે અથવા તો મૃત્યુ પામ્યો છે. પિતાજી, કચને પાછો લાવો. હું તેના વિના રહી શકીશ નહીં.”

કચને શું થયું હોઈ શકે, તે વિશે શુક્રાચાર્યે થોડી વાર વિચાર કર્યો.

તેમને લાગ્યું કે કચ મૃત્યુ પામ્યો હશે અને કહ્યું, “હું તેને પુનર્જીવિત કરીશ. થોડી વાર રાહ જો." પછી તેમણે મનોમન ગુપ્ત મંત્રનો અથવા જાદુઈ નુસખાનો જાપ કર્યો. તરત જ કચ તેના ગુરુ સમક્ષ હાજર થયો. જ્યારે દેવયાનીએ તેને મોડા આવવાનું કારણ પૂછવું, તેણે કહ્યું, "અસુરોએ મને મારી નાખ્યો, મારા શરીરના ટુકડા કર્યા અને શિયાળો અને વરુઓને ખવરાવી દીધા. જ્યારે મહાન સંત, તારા પિતાએ, મને બોલાવ્યો, હું શિયાળો અને વરુઓનાં શરીર ચીરીને બહાર આવ્યો, અને હવે હું તારી સામે ઊભો છું.”

કચ શુક્રાચાર્ય અને દેવયાની સાથે રહેવાનું ચાલુ રાખ્યું. પણ અસુરો શાંત રહ્યા નહીં. એક દિવસ કચ વનમાંથી પુષ્પો એકઠાં કરી રહ્યો હતો, ત્યારે અસુરોએ તેને પકડ્યો. તેમણે તેને મારી નાખ્યો અને તેના શરીરને પીસીને છુંદી નાખી, તેને સમુદ્રના પાણીમાં ભેળવી દીધો.

કચ વનમાંથી પાછો ફર્યો નહીં, ત્યારે દેવયાની ફરીથી નિરાશ થઈ ગઈ, તેણે તેના પિતાને કહ્યું કે કચને પાછો લાવવામાં ન આવે, તો તેને (પણ) જીવવાની ઇચ્છા ન હતી. ફરી એક વાર શુક્રાચાર્યે તેમના મંત્રથી કચને પુનર્જીવિત કર્યો. અસુરો તેમની નિષ્ફળતાથી ખૂબ નિરાશ થયા. તેમણે કચનો નિકાલ કરવાની એક એવી યોજના ઘડી કે શુક્રાચાર્ય તેને કદી પણ પુનઃજીવિત ન કરી શકે.

ત્રીજી વાર અસુરોએ કચને પકડ્યો. તેમણે તેને મારી નાખ્યો અને તેનું શરીર બાળી નાખ્યું. તેમણે (તેની) રાખ એકઠી કરી શુક્રાચાર્ય પીતા તે સોમરસમાં ભેળવી દીધી. ફરી વાર કચ પાછો ફર્યો નહીં ત્યારે દેવયાનીએ તેના પિતાને કહ્યું, “પિતાજી, કચ લાકડા લેવા ગયો હતો, પણ હજી પાછો આવ્યો નથી. નક્કી એ માર્ગ ભૂલ્યો છે અથવા મૃત્યુ પામ્યો છે.

શુક્રાચાર્યે થોડી વાર ધ્યાન ધર્યું અને કહ્યું, “હા, કચ મૃત્યુ : પામ્યો છે અને હવે તેને પુનર્જીવિત કરવા મારા માટે કઠિન છે, : હું લાચાર છું. જ્યારે જ્યારે હું તેને પુનર્જીવિત કરું છું, ત્યારે તેને ફરીથી – મારી નાખવામાં આવે છે. હે દેવયાની, દુ:ખી ન થા, ૨૭ નહીં. એક માણસ માટે તારે આટલા બધા દુઃખી થવું ન જોઈએ, દેવો તારા સૌંદર્યથી પરિચિત છે. તેમનામાંથી કોઈ પણ તારો હાથ માગશે.

પણ દેવયાનીએ કહ્યું, “જેને હું પ્રેમ કરું છું, તેના મૃત્યુ પર હું દુ:ખી કેમ ન થાઉં? તે દેખાવડો હતો, તે મહાન હતો અને યુવાન હતો, કોઈ પણ દેવ તેના જેવો ન હોઈ શકે. હું આમરણાંત ઉપવાસ કરી તેની પાછળ જઈશ.’ – શુક્રાચાર્યને પોતાની પુત્રી માટે દુઃખ થયું અને પોતાના આશ્રિત શિષ્યને મારનાર અસુરો પર ક્રોધ થયો. દેવયાનીની વિનંતીથી, તેમણે કચને મૃત્યુમાંથી પાછો બોલાવવાનું શરૂ કર્યું.

શુક્રાચાર્યના પેટમાંથી કચે ધીમા અવાજે ઉત્તર આપ્યો, “હું કચ છું," તેણે કહ્યું. “અસુરોએ મને મારી નાખી, મારું શરીર બાળી નાખ્યું અને તેની) રાખ તમે પીધેલા સોમરસમાં ભેળવી દીધી. હે ગુરુ! મારા પર કૃપા કરો. હવે હું તમારો અંશ બની ગયો હોવાથી મને તમારો પુત્ર માનો.”

પછી શુક્રાચાર્યે દેવયાનીને કહ્યું, “હવે હું શું કરી શકું? કરો – મારી અંદર છે. હું જીવું અથવા તો કચ જીવે. હવે પછી અમે . બંને સાથે જીવી શકીએ નહીં.” – દેવયાનીએ કહ્યું, “જો કચ મૃત્યુ પામે, તો હું જીવીશ નહીં, અને જો તમે મૃત્યુ પામો, તો હું પડ્યું મૃત્યુ પામીશ.” – શુક્રાચાર્ય ધર્મસંકટમાં ફસાયા. તેમણે કચને કહ્યું, “તારો વિજય થયો, દેવયાની તારી પ્રત્યે આટલી સમતા રાખે છે, તો તું મારી પાસેથી તે જાદુઈ મંત્ર અથવા મૃતકોને પુનર્જીવિત કરવાનું રહસ્ય જાણી લે. જ્યારે તું મારામાંથી બહાર આવે, ત્યારે તે મંત્રનો મારા શરીર પર પ્રયોગ કરજે."

પછી શુક્રાચાર્યે કચને તે ગુપ્ત મંત્ર શીખવાડ્યો અને પોતાના પેટમાંથી બહાર આવવાનું કહ્યું. કચ તેના સંપૂર્ણ તેજ સાથે બહાર આવ્યો અને પોતાના ગુરુને મૃત અવસ્થામાં જોયા. તેણે તરત જ નવા શીખેલા મંત્રથી તેમને પુનઃજીવિત કર્યા. કચને શુક્રાચાર્યમાંથી નવો જન્મ મળ્યો હોવાથી, તેણે તેમને પિતા તરીકે સંબોધન કરી, તેમને અંજલિ આપી.

* કચ થોડો વધારે સમય ત્યાં રોકાયો અને પછી ઘરે જવા માટે તેના ગુરુના આશીર્વાદ માગ્યા. શુક્રાચાર્યે કચને જવાની રજા આપી, પણ તેને જતા જોઈને દેવયાનીએ કહ્યું, “તમે જશો નહીં. તમે જાણો છો કે તમે શિષ્ય હતા ત્યારથી મેં તમને કેટલો પ્રેમ કર્યો છે. હવે જ્યારે તમે તમારો અભ્યાસ પૂર્ણ કર્યો છે, તો મારા પ્રેમના બદલામાં મારી સાથે લગ્ન કરવાનો સમય આવી ગયો છે.”

કયે કહ્યું, “હું તમારું ખૂબ સન્માન કરું છું. તમે મારા માટે પ્રાણથી પણ પ્રિય છો. પણ તમે મારી બહેન છો આપણે બંને તમારા પિતાનો અંશ છીએ. તમારા માટેનો મારો પ્રેમ એ એક બહેન માટેનો ભાઈનો પ્રેમ છે.” તમે મહાન છો અને હું તમને પ્રેમ કરું છું,” દેવયાનીએ કહ્યું. “યાદ કરો, તમારા માટેના મારા પ્રેમે તમને ત્રણ વાર મૃત્યુમાંથી બચાવ્યા છે. પ્રેમ માટે નહીં તો મેં એ શા માટે કર્યું? મારો ત્યાગ ન કરો. મને તમારી પત્ની તરીકે સ્વીકારો.” “તમે જે કહો છો તે પ્રમાણે કરવા હું સંમત થાઉં તો એ પાપ છે,” કચે કહ્યું. “આપણે ભાઈ અને બહેન તરીકે સુખદ સમય સાથે વીતાવ્યો છે. આપણે એ સંબંધ ચાલુ રાખીએ. હું તમને ખાતરી આપું છું કે હું પાપ કરી શકું.”

: દેવયાની એટલી બધી નિરાશ થઈ ગઈ કે તેણે ક્રોધિત થઈને તેને શાપ આપ્યો. “તમે મારો વિશ્વાસઘાત કર્યો હોવાથી, તમે જે શીખ્યા છો તેનો તમે ઉપયોગ નહીં કરી શકો.” કચે કહ્યું, “મેં તમને નકાર આપ્યો કારણ કે તમે મારાં બહેન છો. હું તમારા શાપને પાત્ર નથી. તમે તમારા ઉત્કટ પ્રેમને કારણે આવું કર્યું છે. તમે કહ્યું કે હું જે શીખ્યો છું તે નિરુપયોગી થશે, પણ હું તે અન્ય કોઈને શીખવાડીને તેને ઉપયોગી બનાવીશ.”

દેવયાનીની આજીજી છતાં, કચને જવાનું જ હતું. દેવોએ ખૂબ માનપૂર્વક કચને આવકાર્યો અને સ્વયં ઇન્દ્રદેવે તેનું અભિવાદન કર્યું. (આદિપર્વ – મહાભારત)

Word Meanings

• dev (દેવ) દેવ
• asur (અસુર) રાક્ષસ, દાનવ
• demon (ડીમન) રાક્ષસ
• wickedness (વિકિડનિસ) દુષ્ટતા
• mighty (માઇટિ) બળવાન, શક્તિશાળી
• advantage (અડ્વાન્ટિજ) લાભ, ફાયદો
• saint (સેન્ટ) સંત
• magic formula (મૅજિક ફૉર્મ્યુલા) જાદુઈ નુસખો / પ્રયોગ
• to restore (ટૂ રિસ્ટૉર) પાછું લાવવું
• battle (બૅટલ) યુદ્ધ
• adviser (અડ્વાઇઝર) સલાહકાર
• sought (past tense of 'seek') (સૉટ) મેળવવાનો પ્રયત્ન કર્યો
• secret (સિક્રિટ) રહસ્ય, ગુપ્ત વાત
• to undertake (ટૂ અન્ડરટેક) હાથમાં લેવું, પાર પાડવું
• task (ટાસ્ક) કામ
• choice (ચૉઇસ) પસંદગી
• purpose (પર્પસ) હેતુ
• to render (ટૂ રેન્ડર) આપવું
• service (સર્વિસ) સેવા
• disciple (ડિસાઇપલ) શિષ્ય
• necessary (નેસસરિ) જરૂરી, આવશ્યક
• to raise (ટૂ રેઝ) ઊભું કરવું
• to serve (ટૂ સર્વ) સેવા કરવી
• devotion (ડિવોશન) એકનિષ્ઠા, ભક્તિ
• to attain (ટૂ અટેન) પ્રાપ્ત કરવું, સિદ્ધ કરવું
• objective (અબ્જેક્ટિવ) હેતુ
• to promise (ટૂ પ્રૉમિસ) વચન આપવું
• to fulfill (ટૂ ફુલફિલ) પાર પાડવું
• mission (મિશન) કાર્ય
• hermitage (હર્મિટિજ) આશ્રમ
• sage (સેજ) સંત, સાધુ
• to receive (ટૂ રિસીવ) સ્વાગત કરવું
• eager (ઈગર) આતુર, ઉત્સુક
• to gain (ટૂ ગેન) પ્રાપ્ત કરવું
• knowledge (નોલિજ) જ્ઞાન
• prayer (પ્રેઅર) પ્રાર્થના
• firewood (ફાયરવુડ) બળતણ માટેનું લાકડું
• sacrificial fire (સૈક્રિફિશલ ફાયર) યજ્ઞ
• to graze (ટૂ ગ્રેઝ) ચરવું/ચરાવવું
• keen (કીન) ઉગ્ર
• handsome (હૅન્ડસમ) દેખાવડું
• intelligent (ઈન્ટેલિજન્ટ) બુદ્ધિશાળી
• to respond (ટૂ રિસ્પૉન્ડ) પ્રતિસાદ આપવો
• to consider (ટૂ કન્સિડર) માનવું
• household (હાઉસહોલ્ડ) ઘરના તંત્રને લગતું
• duty (ડ્યૂટિ) ફરજ
• to wander (ટૂ વૉન્ડર) ફરવું
• to revive (ટૂ રિવાઈવ) ફરીથી જીવતું કરવું
• to waylay (ટૂ વેલે) હુમલો કરવો
• upset (અપસેટ) ચિંતાતુર
• silently (સાઈલન્ટલિ) મનોમન
• to summon (ટૂ સમન) બોલાવવું
• to grind (ટૂ ગ્રાઈન્ડ) દળવું
• paste (પેસ્ટ) છૂંદીને બનાવેલ લાહી
• ocean (ઓશન) સમુદ્ર
• despair (ડિસ્પેઅર) નિરાશ થવું
• magic spell (મૅજિક સ્પેલ) જાદુઈ મંત્ર
• disappointed (ડિસ્પૉઈન્ટિડ) અપેક્ષાભંગ થયેલું, નિરાશ થયેલું
• failure (ફેલ્યર) નિષ્ફળતા
• plan (પ્લેન) યોજના
• ash (ઍશ) રાખ
• divine (ડિવાઈન) દૈવી, અલૌકિક
• to meditate (ટૂ મેડિટેટ) ધ્યાન કરવું
• helpless (હેલ્પલિસ) લાચાર
• slain (to slay) (સ્લેન) મારી નાખ્યું
• to grieve (ટૂ ગ્રીવ) દુઃખી થવું
• to distress (ટૂ ડિસ્ટ્રેસ) દુઃખી થવું
• mortal (મૉર્ટલ) માણસ
• to propose (ટૂ પ્રપૉઝ) હાથ માગવો
• to starve (ટૂ સ્ટાર્વ) ભૂખ્યા રહેવું, ઉપવાસ કરવો
• request (રિક્વેસ્ટ) વિનંતી
• gentle (જેન્ટલ) ઉદાર
• to exist (ટૂ ઇગ્ઝિસ્ટ) જીવવું, અસ્તિત્વમાં હોવું
• victory (વિક્ટરિ) વિજય
• brilliance (બ્રિલિઅન્સ) તેજ
• homage (હૉમિજ) અંજલિ
• blessing (બ્લેસિંગ) આશીર્વાદ
• permission (પર્મિશન) પરવાનગી
• to depart (ટૂ ડિપાર્ટ) જવા નીકળવું
• to respect (ટૂ રિસ્પેક્ટ) આદર કરવો / આપવો
• to discard (ટૂ ડિસ્કાર્ડ) ત્યાગ કરવો
• to accept (ટૂ અક્સેપ્ટ) સ્વીકાર કરવો
• sin (સિન) પાપ
• relationship (રિલેશનશિપ) સંબંધ
• to assure (ટૂ અશુઅર) ખાતરી આપવી
• to tempt (ટૂ ટેમ્પ્ટ) પ્રલોભન આપવું
• to curse (ટૂ કર્સ) શાપ આપવો
• to betray (ટૂ બિટ્રે) વિશ્વાસઘાત કરવો
• trust (ટ્રસ્ટ) વિશ્વાસ
• to refuse (ટૂ રિફ્યુઝ) નકારવું
• to deserve (ટૂ ડિઝર્વ) -ને પાત્ર હોવું
• passion (પૅશન) ઉત્કટ પ્રેમ
• to impart (ટૂ ઇમ્પાર્ટ) આપવું
• pleading (પ્લીડિંગ) આજીજી
• honour (ઑનર) સન્માન, માન
• to greet (ટૂ ગ્રીટ) અભિવાદન કરવું