READING COMPREHENSION:

Answer the following questions in 30 to 40 words.

1. Why do the farmers hail the God of rain?

ANSWER:

The farmers hail the God of rain because they are grateful for the mercy and blessings that help their crops grow. The rain is vital for their fields and grain for a bountiful harvest. They recognize that without the rain, their valleys wouldn’t be rich and their grain wouldn’t be ripen. 

2. What is being referred to as ‘wealth of our valleys’? Why?

ANSWER:

The ‘wealth of our valleys’ means the crops and grain grown in the fertile valleys. Valleys have rich soil, which helps crops grow well. This harvest is valuable because it provides food and supports the livelihood of the people.

3. Why has the poet presented the poem as voices of men, women, and all voices?

ANSWER:

The poet uses the voices of men, women, and all people to show that the entire community is united in gratitude for the harvest. It highlights collective celebration, shared thankfulness, and harmony between people and nature.

4. “Why is the poem called a hymn?”

ANSWER:

The poem is called a hymn because it expresses praise and gratitude to nature and various deities such as Surya (the sun), Varuna (rain), Prithvi (earth), and Brahma (the creator).  for a good harvest. It shows collective thankfulness, spiritual faith, and reverence for nature as a divine gift.

HOMEWORK

Answer the following questions in 30 to 40 words.

1. Why does everyone in the poem offer their “labours for tribute’?

2. How does the poet create the joyous atmosphere of rural India at harvesting time?

3. State one reason why the women refer to the Earth as a ‘source of manifold gladness’.