READING COMPREHENSION

1. Why did Rakesh’s parents send him to Mussoorie?


ANSWER:

Rakesh’s parents lived in the village and worked in the fields. They wanted their son to go to school and get his education. So, his parents sent him to Mussoorie to live with his grandfather, from where he could easily travel to the nearby school.

2. Why did Rakesh let the praying-mantis remain on the branch of the cherry tree?


ANSWER:

Rakesh  let the praying-mantis remain on the branch of the cherry tree  because It was the first guest on the cherry tree and did not harm it. So Rakesh allowed it to stay there.

3. How is life in the Himalayan foothills described in the story?

ANSWER:


Life is close to nature and events like snowfall can hamper smooth functioning of life. Rakesh wears chappals and raincoat when he walks to and from school during the monsoons. In winters, they sit in front of charcoal fire, sit in the warm Sun to get heat and have to bear with no supplies of essentials like newspapers.

4. What might Rakesh mean when he says, “Is this what it feels to be God?” at the end of the story?

ANSWER:


Rakesh had experienced the joy and relief of seeing something he was taking care of grow and flourish. He watered the cherry tree and protected it from hairy caterpillars and celebrated every flower and every milestone. Therefore, he wondered if God felt the same sense of accomplishment when he sees his creations develop and become the best versions of themselves.

5. How does the writer describe the relationship between Rakesh and his grandfather?


ANSWER:

The writer describes the relationship between Rakesh and his grandfather to be positive, warm, and comfortable. Rakesh would help his grandfather by cutting wood for the fire and reading the newspaper for him. His grandfather would give him useful advice, support, and entertain him with vivid stories.