GSEB Class 11 Gujarati Textbook Solutions Chapter 3 સુદામાચરિત્ર

Sudamacharitra Exercise

Answer Each Question In One Sentence:

Question 1. What does Sudama tell his wife to believe?
Answer: Sudama asks his wife to follow his counsel.
In simple words: Sudama tells his wife to listen to his advice.

Exam Tip: For single-sentence answers, directly state the main point clearly and concisely.

Question 2. Which two friends does Sudama mention?
Answer: Sudama refers to Sukrit and Dukrit as his friends.
In simple words: Sudama talks about his friends, Sukrit and Dukrit.

Exam Tip: Always recall specific names or terms mentioned in the text for character-based questions.

Question 3. Why does Sudama ask his wife, 'How will we eat grain?'
Answer: Sudama asks his wife, “How will we eat grain?” because if light varieties of grain are planted in the fields, then rice (paddy) will not grow there.
In simple words: Sudama asks this because if poor quality grain is planted, good rice won't grow.

Exam Tip: Connect the direct quote to its underlying reason provided in the context.

Question 4. Why are Sudama's children crying?
Answer: Sudama’s children are very hungry, but they have no food at home to eat, so they are crying.
In simple words: Sudama's children are crying because they are hungry and there is no food.

Exam Tip: Focus on the immediate cause and effect when explaining actions of characters.

Question 5. Which words are used for 'woman' in this section of the epic?
Answer: In the ‘Sudamacharitra’ epic section, the terms “Sundari” and “Abala” are used for ‘woman’.
In simple words: The words "Sundari" and "Abala" are used for "woman" in this story.

Exam Tip: Pay attention to specific vocabulary and terms used in literary texts.

2. Answer Each Of The Following Questions In Two-Three Sentences:

Question 1. What reasons did Sudama give for not getting food?
Answer: Explaining the reasons for not getting food, Sudama states that they have not observed Ekadashi fasts; they have not gone on pilgrimages; they have not made offerings to the fire. They have also not set aside different food for dogs, crows, and cows, nor have they arranged meals for Brahmins. They have disheartened guests and not carried out homahavan.
In simple words: Sudama said they didn't fast on Ekadashi, go on pilgrimages, make offerings to fire, set aside food for animals, feed Brahmins, or do fire rituals, which is why they have no food.

Exam Tip: List all reasons clearly and concisely as presented in the text to secure full marks.

Question 2. Whose examples does Sudama's wife cite from the Puranas?
Answer: Citing examples from the Puranas, Sudama’s wife states that Shiva kept Annapurna at his home; Surya had the Akshaya Patra; Rishis revered Kamadhenu, and the gods worshipped Kalpavriksha.
In simple words: Sudama's wife gave examples from old stories, saying Shiva had Annapurna, Surya had Akshaya Patra, sages worshipped Kamadhenu, and gods worshipped Kalpavriksha.

Exam Tip: Remember specific mythological references or figures mentioned in the text for such questions.

Question 3. Why doesn't Sudama's wife understand Sudama's words of wisdom?
Answer: Sudama’s wife cannot comprehend Sudama’s words of wisdom because knowledge alone cannot satisfy one’s hunger. The children in their house are crying for food, but there is absolutely nothing for them to eat.
In simple words: Sudama's wife doesn't understand his wise words because knowledge doesn't fill stomachs, and their children are crying for food.

Exam Tip: Focus on the practical implications and emotional state of the character when explaining their perspective.

3. Answer The Following Questions In Detail:

Question 1. Describe Sudama's poverty as presented in this poem, in your own words.
Answer: In the poem ‘Sudamacharitra,’ the portrayal of Sudama’s poverty is heard from his wife’s lips, with tears in her eyes. The children in their home are starving without any food. No activities for work or salvation are possible without proper nutrition. One can only survive if there is food, and only then can one practice religious duties. Spiritual wisdom alone cannot fill an empty stomach. Sudama’s wife requests Sudama to go and beg from Krishna Baldev. She firmly believes that Lord Vishnu will erase the lines of poverty written on his forehead instantly.
In simple words: Sudama's wife describes their extreme poverty, where children starve, and no work or devotion is possible without food. She asks Sudama to seek help from Krishna, believing he will remove their poverty.

Exam Tip: When describing a character's state, use evocative language and include details from the poem to support your points.

Sudamacharitra Questions And Answers

1. Answer The Following Questions In Detail:

Question 2. What advice does Sudamaji give to his wife?
Answer: Giving counsel to his wife, Sudamaji explains that they experience joy and sorrow according to the destiny written by the creator. Both sin and virtue are companions. They always stay together. They can only gain something if they have previously given charity. They reap what they sow. It is not possible to hope for good grain by planting light grain in the field. One should take precautions beforehand. One should observe Ekadashi fasts; one should go on pilgrimages; one should fast. One should set aside separate food for dogs, crows, and cows; one should arrange meals for Brahmins. One should not disrespect Hari Prasad. They have not performed such good deeds. That is why they remain poor.
In simple words: Sudamaji advises his wife that joy and sorrow come from destiny. He says good and bad deeds are linked, and we only get what we give. He tells her they are poor because they haven't done good deeds like fasting, giving charity, or feeding animals and Brahmins.

Exam Tip: Provide a comprehensive answer, listing all the key pieces of advice and their underlying philosophical reasons given by Sudama.

Question 2. What does Sudama's wife say explaining the importance of food?
Answer: Explaining the importance of food, Sudama’s wife states that no one can manage without sustenance. Devotion is not possible on an empty stomach. The entire world subsists on food. Lord Shiva kept Annapurna at his dwelling. The Sun God possessed the Akshaya Patra. The sages revered Kamadhenu and obtained their desired food. Thus, every activity for work or salvation can only be performed if food is available. The whole world stands because of food.
In simple words: Sudama's wife explains that no one can live or worship without food, and the world depends on it. She mentions Shiva had Annapurna, Surya had Akshaya Patra, and sages had Kamadhenu to show food's importance.

Exam Tip: Highlight the fundamental role of food in all aspects of life as emphasized by Sudama's wife, including mythological examples.

2. Answer The Following Questions In Two-Three Sentences:

Question 1. Why does Sudama tell his wife to be content?
Answer: Sudama tells his wife to remain content because even though they committed many wrongdoings in their previous birth, they are now free from the animal incarnation. They have attained human birth in this life.
In simple words: Sudama tells his wife to be content because, despite past sins, they were reborn as humans, not animals.

Exam Tip: Explain Sudama's reasoning by referencing concepts of past karma and reincarnation as presented in the text.

Question 2. What does Sudama say to console his wife?
Answer: Sudama advises his wife to surrender her mind to Hari’s feet. He states that they will achieve all kinds of prosperity through devotion to God. Therefore, he asks her to maintain patience.
In simple words: Sudama tells his wife to give her mind to God. He says devotion will bring them wealth, so she should be patient.

Exam Tip: Identify the specific spiritual and practical advice Sudama offers to comfort his wife.

3. Answer The Following Questions In One Sentence:

Question 1. For whom is the word 'Sundari' used?
Answer: The word ‘Sundari’ is used for Sudama’s wife.
In simple words: 'Sundari' is used for Sudama's wife.

Exam Tip: Direct questions require direct answers, accurately identifying the character.

Question 2. For whom is the word 'Rishirayaji' used in the 'Sudamacharitra' epic?
Answer: In the ‘Sudamacharitra’ epic, the term ‘Rishirayaji’ is used for Sudama.
In simple words: 'Rishirayaji' refers to Sudama in the epic.

Exam Tip: Ensure correct character identification for honorific titles within the narrative.

Question 3. What does 'Kamadhenu' mean?
Answer: ‘Kamadhenu’ means a legendary cow that fulfills all desires.
In simple words: 'Kamadhenu' is a mythical cow that grants wishes.

Exam Tip: Provide a clear, concise definition for mythological terms.

Question 4. What does 'Kalpavriksha' mean?
Answer: ‘Kalpavriksha’ means a mythical tree of heaven, under which a person obtains whatever they wish for.
In simple words: 'Kalpavriksha' is a heavenly tree that gives you whatever you wish for.

Exam Tip: Accurately define mythological items based on their described properties.

Question 5. To whom does Sudama's wife ask Sudama to go for alms?
Answer: Sudama’s wife requests Sudama to go to Krishna Baldev for alms.
In simple words: Sudama's wife asks him to seek help from Krishna Baldev.

Exam Tip: Identify the specific characters involved in the request for assistance.

Question 6. What trust does Sudama's wife have in Trikam?
Answer: Sudama’s wife trusts that Trikam will accept Sudama’s plea and instantly eliminate the roots of their poverty.
In simple words: Sudama's wife believes Trikam will hear Sudama's request and quickly end their poverty.

Exam Tip: State the nature of the character's faith clearly and directly.

4. Choose The Correct Option From The Given Alternatives For The Following Questions And Write The Answer:

Question 1. Name the poet of 'Sudamacharitra'.
(a) Akho
(b) Premanand
(c) Mirabai
(d) Dayaram
Answer: (b) Premanand
In simple words: Premanand is the poet who wrote 'Sudamacharitra'.

Exam Tip: Memorize the author and title of literary works for direct recall questions.

Question 2. Name the best 'Akhyan poet' of medieval Gujarati literature.
(a) Premanand
(b) Narsinh Mehta
(c) Umashankar Joshi
(d) Dalpatram
Answer: (a) Premanand
In simple words: Premanand is considered the greatest Akhyan poet of medieval Gujarati literature.

Exam Tip: Be familiar with the prominent figures in literary history and their contributions.

Question 3. State the genre of 'Sudamacharitra'.
(a) Akhyan-khand
(b) Pad
(c) Urmikavya
(d) Ghazal
Answer: (a) Akhyan-khand
In simple words: 'Sudamacharitra' is an Akhyan-khand, which means a section of an epic narrative.

Exam Tip: Understand and correctly identify literary genres for specific works.

Question 4. Name an epic by Premanand.
(a) Kunvarbai nu Mameru
(b) Mangalik Gitavali
(c) Vasantotsav
(d) Kunvarbai nu Mameru
Answer: (a) Kunvarbai nu Mameru
In simple words: 'Kunvarbai nu Mameru' is an epic written by Premanand.

Exam Tip: Recall major works associated with prominent poets for identification questions.

Sudamacharitra Grammar

1. Rewrite The Following Sentences Correcting The Language:

Question 1.
(1) What destiny has written, happens accordingly.
(2) One should build an embankment before water.
(3) Our stomach is filled with sins.
Answer:
(1) What fate has written, occurs accordingly.
(2) One should construct an embankment before water.
(3) Their stomachs are filled with wrongdoings.
In simple words: The sentences are rewritten to correct grammatical and word usage errors.

Exam Tip: Focus on verb tense, agreement, and appropriate word choice when correcting sentences.

2. Identify And Write The Suffixes From The Following Sentences:

Question 1.
(1) Life goes with the soul.
(2) We have not attained an animal incarnation.
(3) Who can manage without food?
Answer:
(1) Ni
(2) E, No
(3) E
In simple words: The suffixes 'Ni', 'E', and 'No' are identified from the given sentences.

Exam Tip: Carefully read each word and identify the small grammatical elements added to the end of a root word to change its meaning or function.

3. Give The Meaning Of The Following Idioms And Use Them In Sentences:

Question 1.
(1) To build an embankment before water - To show foresight, to prevent disaster before it strikes.
Sentence: One who builds an embankment before water can protect themselves during a natural disaster.
(2) To acknowledge a favor - To express gratitude.
Sentence: The child's mother thanked Jayeshbhai for saving her child from falling into the tank.
Answer:
(1) To construct a barrier before water flows - This means to exercise foresight, to avert a crisis before it actually occurs. Sentence: Someone who builds a barrier before the water flows can safeguard themselves during a natural calamity.
(2) To recognize a kindness – This means to show appreciation. Sentence: Because Jayeshbhai rescued her child from falling into a tank, the child’s mother expressed her gratitude to him.
In simple words: The idioms are explained and used in sentences to show their meaning.

Exam Tip: Clearly define the idiom first, then construct a sentence that appropriately demonstrates its meaning in context.

4. Write The Standard Forms Of The Following Colloquial Words:

Question 1.
(1) Pache
(2) Boliya
(3) Rakhiya
(4) Apvas
Answer:
(1) Pachi
(2) Bolya
(3) Rakhya
(4) Upvas
In simple words: The informal words are converted into their formal, standard forms.

Exam Tip: Be familiar with common colloquialisms and their standard equivalents in the language.

5. Match The Synonyms From Section “A” With Section “B” Below:

Question 1.
Section “A” – Section “B”
(1) Shikkhaman – Surya, Bhanu
(2) Ateet – Dev, Devta
(3) Ravi – Bodh, Salah Vina, Vagar
(5) Vin – Atithi, Mehman
(6) Trupt – Dharayelu, Santusht
Answer:
(1) Shikkhaman – Bodh, Salah
(2) Ateet – Atithi, Mehman
(3) Ravi – Surya, Bhanu
(4) Sur – Dev, Devta
(5) Vin – Vina, Vagar
(6) Trupt – Dharayelu, Santusht
In simple words: The words from Section A are matched with their correct synonyms in Section B.

Exam Tip: Carefully review each word and its potential matches, cross-referencing meanings to ensure accuracy.

6. Write The Antonyms Of The Following Words:

Question 1.
1. Sukrit X
2. Trupt X
3. Jad X
4. Mitra X
5. Amrut X
6. Gyan X
7. Jamano X
8. Pratham X
9. Pap X
10. Santosh X
Answer:
1. Sukrit X Dukrit
2. Trupt X Atrupt
3. Jad X Chetan
4. Mitra X Dushman
5. Amrut X Zer
6. Gyan X Agyan
7. Jamano X Dabo
8. Pratham X Antim
9. Pap X Puny
10. Santosh X Asantosh
In simple words: The opposite words (antonyms) for each given word are provided.

Exam Tip: Understand the meaning of each word before attempting to find its direct opposite.

7. Rewrite The Following Words Correcting The Spelling:

Question 1.
1. Sikhaman
2. Hariprasad
3. Amrut
4. Bhakti
5. Annapurna
6. Manvanchhit
7. Rushi
8. Dwarika
9. Dharanidhar
10. Trikam
Answer:
1. Shikhaman
2. Hariprasad
3. Amrut
4. Bhakti
5. Annapurna
6. Manvanchhit
7. Rushi
8. Dwarika
9. Dharanidhar
10. Trikam
In simple words: The spellings of the given words are corrected to their accurate forms.

Exam Tip: Practice common spellings and be aware of typical errors in the language.

8. Split The Following Words Into Their Components:

Question 1.
(1) Nirmukh
(2) Santosh
Answer:
(1) Nirmukh \( = \) Nih \( + \) Mukh
(2) Santosh \( = \) Sam \( + \) Tosh
In simple words: The compound words are separated into their root parts.

Exam Tip: Learn the rules of word formation and prefixes/suffixes to correctly split words.

9. Identify The Compounds (Samas) Of The Following Words:

Question 1.
1. Gogras -
2. Brahmabhojan -
3. Hariprasad -
4. Haricharan
5. Navnidhi
6. Annapurna -
7. Kalpavriksh
8. Kamadhenu
9. Prananath
Answer:
1. Gogras – Madhyamapadalopi Samas
2. Brahmabhojan – Tatpurush Samas
3. Hariprasad – Madhyamapadalopi Samas
4. Haricharan – Tatpurush Samas
5. Navnidhi – Dvigu Samas
6. Annapurna – Upapad Samas
7. Kalpavriksh – Madhyamapadalopi Samas
8. Kamadhenu – Madhyamapadalopi Samas
9. Prananath – Tatpurush Samas
In simple words: The type of compound word (Samas) for each word is identified.

Exam Tip: Understand the different types of compounds (Samas) and their formation rules to correctly classify each word.

Sudamacharitra Summary In Gujarati

Sudamacharitra Introduction

This section represents a medieval poetic form known as Akhyana, which is often called ‘Kadva’. The poet has utilized a mythological narrative as its central theme. This ‘Kadva’ features two main characters: Sudama and Sudama’s wife. Sudama believes in predetermined destiny, while his wife champions the concept of diligent effort.

Sudama tells his wife that they receive their outcomes based on their deeds in previous existences. If virtuous actions were not performed in a past life, and no charitable giving took place, then a lavish existence cannot be anticipated in this current life. They should find satisfaction in whatever they obtain through divine benevolence.

In response to her husband’s philosophical teachings, Sudama’s wife explains the harsh realities to Sudama and urges him to seek assistance from Lord Krishna. She asserts that devotion is not possible on an empty stomach. No one can endure without sustenance. Starving children cannot be comforted with abstract philosophy. Great deities like Shiva keep Annapurna by their side. The Sun God sustains the world with his Akshaya Patra. The seven sages worship Kamadhenu. Thus, no human endeavor is feasible without food. It becomes clear upon reading this ‘Kadva’ that even in such a dire situation, there is no acrimony in the conversation between the husband and wife. This ‘Kadva’ is delightful to sing along with a Raga.

Sudamacharitra Poem Explanation

Then Sudamaji spoke, saying, “Sundari, listen to me. Who has made you foolish for not accepting the advice I offer?”

“We receive whatever has been ordained; Sundari, listen, the deity of fortune has inscribed both gains and losses. Who has made you foolish?”

“Sin and virtue are two companions; Sundari, listen, life departs alongside the soul. Who has made you foolish?”

“We cannot acquire without giving; Sundari, listen, we have not given with our right hand (meaning, we have not given charity). Who has made you foolish?”

“If we cultivate the field and sow inferior grains, Sundari, listen, then from where will we acquire rice? Who has made her foolish?”

One obtains results corresponding to their actions.

“What is the benefit of regretting after the opportunity is lost? Sundari, listen, if a protective barrier was not constructed earlier, then who has made her foolish?”

One should always build a protective barrier before trouble starts.

“We have not observed Ekadashi fasts, Sundari, listen. We have not undertaken pilgrimages or fasts. Who has made you foolish?”

“We have not appeased the fire, Sundari, listen. We have not set aside separate food for dogs, crows, and cows before our meals. Who has made her foolish?”

“We have not arranged Brahmin feasts, Sundari, listen. We have not performed homahavan ceremonies. Who has made you foolish?”

“We have sent guests away without feeding them, Sundari, listen. So, how will we get food? Who has made her foolish?”

“We have not partaken of Hari Prasad, Sundari, listen. We have not consumed the remaining portion of oblations. Who has made her foolish?”

“Our stomachs are full of wrongdoings, Sundari, listen. We have been freed from animal rebirth. Who has made you foolish?”

Even with all our wrongdoings, we have not been reborn as animals. “Let us taste the nectar of contentment, Sundari, listen. Let us surrender our minds to Hari’s feet. Who has made her foolish?”

Let us focus our minds on remembering God and remain content.

“Through devotion, we will attain the nine treasures (all kinds of prosperity), Sundari, listen. You, being a woman, should exercise patience. Who has made you foolish?”

With tears in her eyes, the weak woman (Sudama’s wife) states, “O Rishirayaji (Sudama), my mind has become insensitive (devoid of emotion). I bow down to you.”

“I do not appreciate this knowledge, Rishirayaji (Sudama), because the child is crying for sustenance. I bow down to you.”

“No one can survive without sustenance, Rishirayaji (even if they are) a great Yogeshwar (Shiva) or a devotee of Hari (Vishnu). I bow down to you.”

Without food, devotion is not possible, Rishirayaji. The entire world subsists on food. I bow down to you.

Shiva (Shankar) kept Annapurna at his home, Rishirayaji. Ravi (Sun) possessed the Akshaya Patra. I bow down to you.

Sages revere Kamadhenu, Rishirayaji, so who are we in comparison? I bow down to you.

Should we not strive to fulfill our desires? The gods serve Kalpavriksha, Rishirayaji, and obtain their desired food. I bow down to you.

Without food, religious duty and life cannot endure, Rishirayaji. The entire world exists because of food. I bow down to you.

The fruit of your efforts will not be lost (your endeavor will not fail), Rishirayaji. Go and beg from Krishna Baldev. I bow down to you.

The letters of poverty are inscribed (poverty is destined), Rishirayaji. Dharanidhar (Vishnu) will instantly wash them away (remove them). I bow down to you.

Trikam (Vishnu) will instantly cut down the tree of poverty. Prananath (Sudama), you should visit Dwarka. I express my gratitude to you.

Sudamacharitra Glossary

• Pache – After, later, subsequently.
• Sudamaji – Sudama, a poor classmate of Shri Krishna.
• Sun – To hear, to listen (here, listen to advice, counsel).
• Gheli – Foolish, senseless.
• Nimyu – Ordained, predetermined, fixed, fated.
• Pamiye – To obtain, to acquire.
• Vidhiye – By Brahma, by the god of destiny.
• Vrudhdhi – Growth, prosperity.
• Han – Harm, loss, damage.
• Sukrit – Good deed, virtue.
• Dukrit – Bad deed, sin.
• Khadadhan – Grain that grows without cultivation, like wild grass (e.g., samai, manki), low-quality grain.
• Khedi – To cultivate, to plough, to loosen the soil with a plough.
• Shal – Paddy, a grain from which rice is obtained.
• Sochna – Lament, sorrow, worry, regret.
• Pal – An embankment built to stop liquids from flowing away.
• Ekadashi Vrat – Ekadashi fast.
• Kidha – Done, performed.
• Upvas – Fast, abstinence.
• Trupt – Satisfied, contented.
• Shvan – Dog.
• Vayas – Crow.
• Gaugras – Separate food set aside for cows.
• Brahmabhojan – Feeding Brahmins.
• Homahavan – Fire ritual.
• Ateet – Guest, visitor, stranger, beggar.
• Nirmukh – Returned without eating.
• Nirash Thai Pachhu Gayelu – Returned disappointed.
• Valiya – To send off, to bid farewell (here).
• An – Grain, food.
• Hariprasad – Offering made to God (here).
• Hutshesh – Remainder of an offering, sacred portion.
• Ahar – Food, to eat, diet.
• Santosh Amrut – Nectar of contentment.
• Haricharan – At the feet of God (here).
• Navnidhi – Nine treasures of Kubera, all kinds of prosperity.
• Dhir – Patience.
• Abala – Woman.
• Rishirayaji – A form of address used by Sudama's wife for Sudama (here).
• Jad – Lifeless, inanimate, emotionless, unintelligent, lacking vitality.
• Lagu Payaji – To bow down, to touch feet.
• Jogeshwar – Yogeshwar – Shiva, Mahadev.
• Haribhakt – Devotee of Vishnu, devotee of Shri Krishna.
• Vin – Without.
• Suze – To understand, to comprehend.
• Annapurna – Goddess of food.