A Long Walk with Granny – Ruskin Bond

ഒരു മുത്തശ്ശിയും കൊച്ചുമകനും തമ്മിലുള്ള ബന്ധത്തിൻ്റെ കഥയാണ് “മുത്തശ്ശിയുടെകൂടെയൊരു നീണ്ടയാത്ര.”

മണിയും അച്ഛനും മണിയുടെ മുത്തശ്ശിയും ഒരു ഗ്രാമത്തിലായിരുന്നു താമസിച്ചത്. മുത്തശ്ശിക്ക് കണ്ണിനു തീരെ കാഴ്ചയില്ലായിരുന്നു. മണിയുടെ അമ്മ അവൻ്റെ ചെറുപ്പത്തിൽ തന്നെ മരിച്ചുപോയതിനാൽ മുത്തശ്ശിയായിരുന്നു മണിയെ വളർത്തിയത്. മുത്തശ്ശിയെപോലെതന്നെ മുത്തശ്ശിയുടെ കണ്ണടക്കും പ്രായമായി, പോറൽ വീണു. അവസാനം ഒരുദിവസം മുത്തശ്ശിക്കൊരു പുതിയ കണ്ണട വാങ്ങാൻ തീരുമാനമായി. ദൂരയാത്ര ചെയ്യാൻ ഇഷ്ടമില്ലാതിരുന്നിട്ടും മുത്തശ്ശി അവസാനം സമ്മതിച്ചു – നയിൻ എന്ന ഗ്രാമത്തിലൂടെ നടന്നും ബസിലും ഒക്കെയായി മസ്സൂരി പട്ടണത്തിലെ കണ്ണാശുപത്രിയിലേക്ക്, മണിയുടെ കൂടെ. മഴ നനഞ്ഞിട്ടും, മലകളും കാടുകളും കയറിയിറങ്ങിയിട്ടും മുത്തശ്ശിക്ക് ഒരു ക്ഷീണവും തോന്നിയില്ല, കാരണം മണിയുടെ കൂടെ എത്ര നടന്നാലും മുത്തശ്ശിക്ക് വേദനകളും വിഷമങ്ങളും ഇല്ലായിരുന്നു.

ബസിൽ യാത്ര ചെയ്യുമ്പോൾ ഒരു മലയിടിച്ചിൽ ഉണ്ടാകുകയും അവരുടെ യാത്ര തടസ്സപ്പെടുകയും ചെയ്തു പക്ഷെ അവർ യാത്ര തുടർന്ന് അവസാനം മസ്സൂരിയിൽ എത്തി. ഒരു ധർമ്മശാലയിൽ താമസിച്ച് അവർ പിറ്റേന്ന് ഡോക്ടറെ കാണുകയും ഒരു ഗുണവും ഇല്ലാത്ത ആ കണ്ണട മാറ്റി പുതിയ ഒന്ന് വാങ്ങി വയ്ക്കുകയും ചെയ്തു. വർഷങ്ങൾക്കു ശേഷം മുത്തശ്ശി പുതിയ കണ്ണടയിലൂടെ മണിയെ കണ്ടു. തിരികെ പോകുമ്പോൾ അവരുടെ മനസ്സ് സന്തോഷം കൊണ്ട് നിറഞ്ഞിരുന്നു. 

Summary

Granny, an elderly woman with very weak eyesight, lived in a quiet village where she had lovingly raised her grandson, Mani, after his mother passed away. Her glasses were old and scratched, and Mani and his father decided it was time for her to get new ones. Though hesitant to travel far, Granny agreed to visit the eye hospital in Mussoorie when Mani offered to go with her. Together, they set off on a long journey through rain, hills, forests, and even a landslide that blocked their bus route. Undeterred, they continued on foot, finally reaching Mussoorie. After staying at a dharamsala, they visited the hospital, where the doctor replaced her useless glasses with stronger ones. For the first time in years, Granny could see Mani clearly and was overjoyed. They returned home with new glasses, shoes, a cowbell, and hearts full of happiness.

Notes

• Granny and Mani lived in a quiet village near the river and pine trees.
• She could hear and smell things, but she could not see clearly.
• Her old glasses were scratched and over ten years old.
• Her eyesight had become very weak with time.
• She lived with her son and Mani, her grandson.
• Granny had raised Mani since he was a baby.
• Mani’s mother had died when he was just one year old.
• Granny had taken care of both Mani and his father.
• She also looked after the house, cows, and hens.
• Mani and his father wanted Granny to get new glasses.
• Granny said she couldn’t get new glasses in the village.
• Mani said they must go to the eye hospital in Mussoorie.
• Granny didn’t want to travel so far and gave excuses.
• The journey to Mussoorie would take two full days.
• Granny didn’t want to leave Mani behind.
• Mani said he would come with her to Mussoorie.
• Granny felt happy and ready to go when she heard that.
• She said they could also do some shopping there.
• Mani’s father gave them only ₹100 for the trip.
• Granny had ₹50 more, saved from her own money.
• They started their journey early next morning in the rain.
• Mani carried a bedding roll on his back.
• Granny carried a shopping bag and a leaky umbrella.
• Granny walked fast and didn’t stop for berries.
• Mani ran behind her after eating blackberries.
• They walked through rain, sunshine, and beautiful hills.
• Granny said she could see the path and Mani’s white shirt.
• They ate food under a pine tree and drank water from a spring.
• They reached the town of Nain by late afternoon.
• It was raining hard when they entered the town.
• They stayed at Uncle’s house and dried themselves.
• Next morning, Mani ran to bathe in the river.
• The bus to Mussoorie arrived while Mani was away.
• Granny had already bought their tickets for the bus.
• The bus was very noisy, shaky, and full of people.
• Granny fell asleep on Mani’s shoulder during the ride.
• The bus suddenly stopped because of a landslide.
• Rocks and mud had fallen and blocked the road.
• Some rocks even hit the roof of the bus.
• The driver reversed the bus to keep everyone safe.
• Most people went back to Nain, but not Granny and Mani.
• They decided to walk to Mussoorie through a mountain path.
• They climbed up and down hills and forests.
• They ate pakoras, buns, and peaches from Uncle’s house.
• Finally, they reached the lights of Mussoorie at night.
• They stayed in a dharamsala near a temple.
• Next morning, they waited in line at the eye hospital.
• The doctor said Granny’s glasses were very old and harmful.
• After testing, he gave her stronger lenses to help her see.
• Granny was very happy to see Mani clearly after many years.

Ente English

Welcome to Ente English Program. 

സ്വന്തമായി ഉത്തരങ്ങൾ എഴുതാനും പരീക്ഷകളിൽ മിനിമം 98% മാർക്ക് വാങ്ങാനും “എൻ്റെ ഇംഗ്ലീഷ്” പ്രോഗ്രാമിൽ പങ്കെടുക്കുക. ക്ലാസുകൾ കൂടാൻ ഇപ്പോൾ തന്നെ ഈ ഗ്രൂപ്പിൽ ചേർന്ന്‌ വൈകിട്ട് 06:30 മണിയുടെ ക്ലാസുകൾ കൂടുക. കാണാപാഠം പഠിക്കാൻ താഴേക്ക് സ്ക്രോൾ ചെയ്യുക. അടുത്ത ചാപ്റ്റർ പഠിക്കാൻ ഇവിടെ അമർത്തുക.  

Questions and Answers

1. Why did Granny need new glasses?

   Granny had been using the same pair of glasses for over ten years. Her eyes had become very weak, and the glasses were old, scratched, and full of spots. Because of this, she could hardly see anything through them. Mani and his father were worried that the glasses were doing more harm than good and wanted her to get her eyes tested and get new glasses.
2. Why was Granny unwilling to travel to Mussoorie?

   Granny didn’t want to travel to Mussoorie at first because it was a long two-day journey. She was also looking for excuses because she did not want to be separated from her grandson Mani. Even though he was old enough to stay alone, she had brought him up since he was a baby and felt deeply attached to him.
3. What kind of relationship did Granny have with Mani?

   Granny and Mani shared a very close and loving relationship. She had raised him since he was one year old, after his mother had died. Granny had not only looked after Mani but also taken care of his father and the household. She loved Mani dearly and didn’t want to leave him, showing how strong their bond was.
4. How did Granny react when she found out Mani might go with her?

   When Granny heard that Mani might accompany her to Mussoorie, her attitude completely changed. She became excited and eager to make the journey. She even started planning what to buy during the trip, like seeds, a cowbell, and shoes. Knowing Mani would be with her gave her courage and happiness.
5. What items did Granny and Mani carry for their journey?

   Mani carried a small bedding roll on his shoulders, and Granny carried a large cloth shopping bag and an umbrella, which was old and leaking. They also took some food with them, like pakoras, buns, and peaches from Uncle’s house, which Granny wisely packed knowing Mani would get hungry.
6. What were some things Granny could still sense clearly even though she couldn’t see well?

   Even though Granny could not see much, her other senses were strong. She could hear the roar of the river, smell the pine needles, and feel Mani’s presence near her. These senses helped her enjoy the journey in her own way.
7. Describe the scenery they passed on their journey.

   Granny and Mani walked through beautiful hills, pine forests, and green fields. They saw parrots flying in the sky, and at one point, the sun came out and the hills were bathed in golden sunshine. Later, they walked through thick mist and a gloomy deodar forest. The scenery was full of nature’s beauty and change.
8. What happened during the bus journey to Mussoorie?

   The bus they boarded was old and noisy. As it went around sharp bends, passengers were thrown from side to side. Suddenly, the bus had to stop because a landslide had blocked the road. Rocks and mud were still falling, and even hit the roof of the bus. The driver wisely reversed the bus to keep everyone safe.
9. Why did Granny and Mani decide not to return to Nain with the others?

   Even though most passengers went back to Nain after the landslide, Granny and Mani decided to continue on foot. Granny bravely said it was only ten miles, the same distance they had walked the day before. She was determined and did not want to turn back, especially since Mani was with her.
10. What challenges did they face during their walk to Mussoorie?

    They had to climb up and down steep hills and walk across windy, bare hillsides and dark forests. It started getting dark, and they were all alone. Granny’s umbrella leaked, and they were tired, but they kept going. Still, they stayed cheerful and continued their journey with courage.
11. Where did they stay in Mussoorie, and why?

    They stayed in a dharamsala near a temple because they couldn’t find a cheap hotel. Even though Granny had saved some money, hotels in Mussoorie were too expensive for them. The dharamsala was a simple and affordable place to spend the night.

    Dharmashala is a charitable rest house for travelers. Cheap hotels charge very low rent. Affordable places charge low rent so that ordinary people can stay there. 
12. How did the eye doctor react to Granny’s old glasses?

    The doctor was shocked to see how old and damaged Granny’s glasses were. He first threw them in the dustbin, then jokingly said he should send them to a museum. He told Granny that those glasses had probably done more harm than good and that she should have changed them years ago.
13. What did the doctor tell Granny about her eyesight?

    The doctor examined her eyes and told her that although her eyesight was very weak, she was not going blind. He reassured her that with a new and stronger pair of glasses, her vision would improve a lot. This news made Granny very happy.
14. How did Granny feel when she saw Mani clearly for the first time in years?

    Granny was overjoyed when she saw Mani clearly. She clapped her hands with happiness and told him he looked very nice. Then, like a loving grandmother, she started noticing small things—saying he needed a haircut, a wash, and buttons on his shirt. It was a heartwarming moment of love and joy.
15. What did Granny and Mani buy after the hospital visit?

    After getting her new glasses, Granny and Mani went shopping. They bought a new pair of shoes for Mani, a thick woollen pullover for Mani’s father, seeds and bulbs for their garden, a new umbrella for Granny, and a new bell for the white cow.
16. How did the journey back home feel different for Granny?

    On the way back, Granny sat by the window and happily looked outside. She could now see many things she hadn’t seen clearly in a long time—fields, people, animals, and even a rainbow in the sky. Her joy and excitement made the return journey very special.
17. What did Granny and Mani buy after the hospital visit?

    The rainbow was a symbol of hope and happiness for Granny. It was one of the most beautiful things she had seen in a long time, thanks to her new glasses. It made her feel that the long and difficult journey had been completely worth it.
18. What does this story show about Granny’s character?

    Granny is shown to be brave, loving, and full of energy. Even though she had weak eyesight, she didn’t let that stop her. She was deeply attached to Mani and willing to take risks for him. Her sense of humor, strength, and determination made her a truly inspiring character.
19. What lessons can we learn from this story?

    This story teaches us the importance of caring for our loved ones, being brave in difficult situations, and never giving up. It also reminds us that growing old doesn’t mean losing hope or strength. Granny shows us that love and courage can make any journey possible.
20. How does the story end?

    The story ends with Granny happily looking out of the bus window as they head home. She is full of joy because she can see the world again. Mani rests his head on her shoulder and falls asleep, showing their closeness. It’s a peaceful, happy ending after a long and adventurous journey.

Places in this Story

1. “Nain” refers to Nainbagh, a small village and market located on the Mussoorie-Yamunotri road, approximately 35-40 kilometers from Mussoorie.
2. Mussoorie is a hill station located in the Garhwal Himalayan range of the Indian state of Uttarakhand.

Letters

Letter Writing 1

Dear Papa,

I hope you are doing well. Granny and I reached Mussoorie safely. It was a long journey, but Granny walked bravely all the way. We had some trouble on the road because of a landslide. The bus had to stop, and we walked over the mountains to reach Mussoorie.

Granny was very happy to be with me. She kept smiling and talking, even though she could not see clearly. At the hospital, the doctor gave her new glasses. Now she can see much better. She was so happy when she saw me clearly after many years. She said I looked like a fine boy!

We also bought some things for home. I have new shoes now, and we bought a warm pullover for you. Granny also got seeds, bulbs, and a new bell for the white cow.

Tomorrow, we will be back home. Please don’t worry about us. Granny is strong and happy. I think she enjoyed the trip more than anyone.

With love,
Your son, Mani

Letter 2

Dear Leela,

How are you, my dear old friend? I have just returned from Mussoorie, and I must tell you all about my trip with Mani.

At first, I did not want to go. You know how much I love staying home. But Mani and his father insisted that I should get my eyes tested. So, Mani and I walked to Nain, and from there we went to Mussoorie.

We had some adventure too. There was a landslide, and the road was blocked. But I didn’t give up! Mani and I climbed a mountain and reached Mussoorie by foot. It was tiring but exciting.

At the hospital, the doctor gave me new glasses. And guess what? I could see Mani’s face clearly for the first time in years. What a joy it was! I couldn’t stop smiling. We also did some shopping. I got an umbrella, seeds, and a cowbell.

Mani took great care of me, and I am proud of the boy I raised. I feel young again!

Do write back soon.

With love,
Your friend, Nirmala.

Conversations

Conversation 1: Between Mani and Granny on the way to Mussoorie

• Mani: Are you tired, Granny? We can rest if you want.
• Granny: Not yet, dear. We’ll rest when you’re hungry!
• Mani: You’re so strong, Granny. I hope I can walk like you when I’m old.
• Granny: (laughs) You will, if you eat well and work hard.
• Mani: I picked some berries. Want some?
• Granny: No, thank you. You eat. I want to reach before dark.
• Mani: I can see the temple! We’re almost there.
• Granny: I can’t see anything, but I trust your eyes.
• Mani: Soon you’ll see everything, Granny. I promise.

Conversation 2: Doctor and Granny

• Doctor: Good morning, Granny. Please come and sit on this chair. How are you today?
• Granny: Good morning, Doctor. I’m fine, but I can’t see things clearly anymore.
• Doctor: Let me take a look at your glasses. May I hold them for a moment?
• Granny: Of course, Doctor. Here they are. I’ve been using them for many, many years.
• Doctor: Oh my! These glasses are very old and full of scratches!
• Granny: Yes, Doctor. I’ve had them since Mani was a little baby.
• Doctor: These may be hurting your eyes more than helping. You need new ones.
• Granny: That’s what my grandson says too. He made me come here today.
• Doctor: You are lucky to have such a caring grandson. He brought you at the right time.
• Granny: He is my world, Doctor. I look after him, and he looks after me.
• Doctor: Now, can you look at that big board on the wall and tell me what you see?
• Granny: I’m sorry, Doctor. I can’t see the board at all. It’s just a blur.
• Doctor: No problem. I will test your eyes with some lights and lenses now.
• Granny: Please go ahead, Doctor. I hope I can see better soon.
• Doctor: Don’t worry, Granny. We will find the perfect glasses for you today.

Conversation 2: Trying Lenses and New Glasses

• Doctor: Granny, I’m placing this soft metal frame on your nose. Is it comfortable?
• Granny: Yes, Doctor. It feels funny, but not painful. You may continue.
• Doctor: Great. Now I’ll put one lens at a time. Tell me if things get clearer.
• Granny: Oh, wait! With this one, I can almost see your tie, Doctor!
• Doctor: Very good! Now, I’ll try a stronger lens. How about now?
• Granny: Yes! I can see your face better now! You look nice and round!
• Doctor: Haha! That’s a good sign. Now look at the board. Can you read the big letters?
• Granny: Yes, Doctor! I can read the top line now! It says “E” very big!
• Doctor: Excellent, Granny! Your eyes are weak, but you’re not going blind.
• Granny: Oh, thank you, Doctor! I was so scared that I’d never see clearly again.
• Doctor: Don’t worry. With new glasses, your world will look bright and clear.
• Granny: That makes me so happy! I want to see Mani’s face properly again.
• Doctor: Turn around now, Granny. Look at the boy standing near the door.
• Granny: Oh my! That’s my Mani! I can see his smile! He looks so smart and sweet!
• Doctor: That’s wonderful, Granny. Now let’s get your new glasses made right away!

News Report 

Landslide Blocks Road Near Nain – Travelers Face Trouble

Date: May 24, 2025
Location: Near Nain, on the way to Mussoorie

Yesterday afternoon, a sudden landslide blocked the mountain road near Nain, causing great trouble for travelers going to Mussoorie. The landslide happened just a few minutes after a bus full of passengers had started its climb up the mountain road. Big rocks, trees, and soil began falling from the hill above, completely covering the road.

The bus driver quickly stopped the vehicle to keep the passengers safe. He then reversed the bus to a safe place far from the falling stones. Many passengers were afraid, and some of them screamed as rocks hit the roof of the bus. The driver told everyone to remain calm. Thankfully, no one was hurt.

After some time, the driver decided it was too dangerous to wait, so he took the bus back to Nain. However, not everyone returned. A few people, including a seventy-year-old woman and her young grandson, decided to walk to Mussoorie. They had an important reason — the grandmother needed to get her eyes tested at the hospital. They walked over small mountain paths, through bushes and streams, showing great courage and strength.

The local authorities have sent workers to clear the road, but they said it may take a few days. The police have put up warning signs and advised other travelers to take a different route. People living nearby are also scared because such landslides happen often during this season.

This event shows how dangerous mountain roads can be, especially after rains or small earthquakes. Travelers are asked to stay alert and listen to police instructions.

News Report 2

A Grandmother’s Long Walk for Clear Sight – A Story of Strength and Love

Date: May 24, 2025
Location: Mussoorie

A seventy-year-old grandmother showed amazing courage and love during a recent journey to Mussoorie for an eye check-up. The woman, lovingly called Granny, was joined by her young grandson Mani on this long and tiring trip. They did not take a car or train from the village. Instead, they walked many miles over hills and through forests to reach Nain. From there, they took a bus to Mussoorie.

Their journey became more difficult when a sudden landslide blocked the road. The bus had to stop, and stones began falling. Most passengers returned to Nain, but Granny did not want to go back. Her eyes had become very weak, and she could hardly see anything. She wanted new glasses badly. So she and Mani climbed the mountain by foot.

The climb was not easy. They had to walk on narrow paths and cross streams. They ate berries from the forest and slept in small hotels on the way. Mani looked after Granny like a hero — finding food, guiding her steps, and making her smile with jokes.

At last, they reached the hospital in Mussoorie. The doctor was surprised by Granny’s old glasses — they were more than ten years old! After a few tests, the doctor gave her new glasses. Granny’s face lit up when she saw her grandson clearly. It was a beautiful moment.

Their return journey was safer. They stopped at the market and bought things for home — a pullover, a cowbell, seeds, and medicines.

This journey tells us that age is just a number when there is love and determination. Granny is a true example of strength, and Mani is a wonderful grandson. Their story reminds us to take care of our elders and respect their efforts.

Essay 1

Strengthening Relationship with Grandparents

Grandparents are very special people in our lives. They love us deeply and care for us in many ways. Sometimes, we forget to spend time with them because we are busy with school, phones, and games. But we must try to build a strong bond with them.

We can make our grandparents happy by talking to them every day. We should ask them about their childhood, stories, and experiences. They have so much to share! They also feel happy when we help them in small ways, like bringing them water, reading letters, or going for a walk with them.

Sometimes, grandparents cannot see or hear well, but they still love us more than anyone. If we take care of them, it makes them feel respected and needed. Just sitting with them and listening is enough to make them smile.

Spending time with grandparents also teaches us important values like kindness, patience, and respect. They are like living books, full of wisdom and love.

Let us promise to make our grandparents feel special. A little love and time from us can make a big difference in their lives.

Activity 1

Describing a scenery:

The scenery captures a moment of breathtaking, sun-drenched tranquility, where nature flourishes under a crystal-clear blue sky. At the top right, a radiant sun beams down, casting a gentle, golden light that bathes everything in warmth. The sky is dotted with fluffy, snow-white clouds, drifting lazily and adding a touch of dreamlike softness to the atmosphere.

Beneath the sky stretches a lush, emerald-green meadow, its well-tended grass rolling gently toward the horizon. The foreground is wide and open, giving a sense of freedom and space. To the left stands a majestic, broad-canopied tree, its dense, verdant foliage offering a cool sanctuary of shade and stillness. Its presence anchors the scene with a feeling of steadfastness and grace.

On the right, a line of vibrant, sunlit trees bursts forth with golden-yellow leaves, each one a small flame against the cool greens. The spacing between them is even, creating a harmonious, well-composed visual rhythm. Their color contrast with the grass below and the sky above is simply striking.

In the middle distance, two graceful, free-flying birds soar, lending a breath of motion and life to the otherwise serene, still tableau. The distant rolling hills subtly rise and fall, painting the backdrop with gentle contours.

Altogether, this scene feels like a living painting — a portrait of peace, balance, and the timeless beauty of the natural world.

Activity 2

A. Granny and Mani return after their thrilling experience of walking and exploring the surroundings. At home, Mani shares his experience with his father. Write the likely narrative.

You know, Papa, I really enjoyed the journey with Granny. It was more exciting than I imagined! We left in the morning drizzle, and Granny walked so fast, I had to keep up. She didn’t even rest until I got hungry. We ate under a pine tree and drank from a spring. It felt peaceful and magical.

The next day, while on the bus to Mussoorie, a landslide blocked the road. Rocks were falling everywhere! People panicked, but Granny stayed calm. When others turned back, she said, “It’s just ten miles,” and we walked through forests and over hills. She didn’t complain once!

We reached Mussoorie by evening and stayed in a dharamsala. The next morning, the eye doctor was shocked by her old glasses and said they belonged in a museum! After testing her eyes, he gave her new lenses. When she looked at me, she smiled and said, “You look nice, but you need a haircut and a wash!”

We bought new shoes for me, a pullover for you, seeds, bulbs, and a new cowbell. On the way back, Granny sat by the window, pointing out everything — even a rainbow. You should’ve seen her, Papa. She looked truly happy.

B. The eye-specialist couldn’t forget Granny and his interaction with her. He recollects the encounter in his diary. Write the likely diary entry.

12 May, 2025

Today, I met a patient I won’t forget easily — an elderly village woman who came in with her young grandson. Her name wasn’t mentioned, but her personality was unforgettable. She wore a warm, contented smile and had the most ancient pair of spectacles I’ve ever seen in my career. I almost threw them in the wastebasket! Honestly, those glasses belonged in a museum.

Her eyes were very weak, but thankfully, she wasn’t going blind. As I tested her vision and fitted lenses, I noticed her quiet strength and sense of humor. She couldn’t see the eye chart at all, nor could she see me properly. But the moment she tried the new lenses, her face lit up. She looked at her grandson and burst with joy, calling him handsome and then teasing him about needing a haircut and buttons!

It was touching — a perfect moment of love and laughter. I’ve examined thousands of eyes, but few patients have warmed my heart like she did. Her cheerful spirit, even at her age, reminded me why I chose this profession.

Sometimes, it’s not just about helping people see better — it’s about seeing life more clearly through them.

C. Have you recently visited a tourist spot or a place that caught your attention with its beauty? Attempt a descriptive paragraph on the spot you visited.

I recently visited Munnar, a beautiful hill station in Kerala. The moment I reached there, I was amazed by the green tea gardens that stretched across the hills like a soft green carpet. The cool breeze and the scent of fresh tea leaves made the air feel so fresh and clean. Mist floated gently over the hills in the morning, making the whole place look magical. We visited a viewpoint where I could see clouds floating below me. It felt like I was standing in the sky. There were small waterfalls along the road and colourful flowers everywhere. The silence, broken only by birds and rustling leaves, gave a peaceful feeling. I clicked many photos, but no picture could match the real beauty of the place. The sunset in the evening turned the sky orange and pink, making it look like a painting. Munnar is truly one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen, and I wish to go there again.

Don’t Miss

• Chapter 2 – The Seven Ages of Man
• Chapter 3 – Coming Soon

Textbook Side Questions

1. Why couldn’t Granny see properly through her glasses?
Granny had been using the same pair of glasses for more than ten years. Over time, her eyesight had grown weaker, but she never changed her glasses. The lenses of her glasses had become old, scratched, and spotted. This made it very difficult for her to see clearly through them. She could only make out a few things like Mani’s fuzzy hair or the gleam of his teeth when he smiled. Most of the time, everything looked blurry or unclear. That’s why Mani and his father felt that she should get her eyes tested and get a new pair of glasses.

2. Why didn’t Granny want to be parted from Mani?
Granny didn’t want to be away from Mani because she loved him deeply. She had been looking after him since he was just a baby. Mani’s mother had died when he was only one year old, and Granny had raised him like her own child. She had also taken care of Mani’s father, their cows, and hens with great dedication. Even though Mani was now eleven years old and quite capable of managing things on his own, Granny felt very attached to him. She was afraid something might happen to him in her absence, and also she would miss him too much.

3. Do you think Granny was confident about walking to Nain? Give 5 reasons.
Yes, Granny was very confident about walking to Nain.
Here are five reasons:

1. She had strong legs – Even though her eyesight was weak, Granny clearly said that there was nothing wrong with her legs.
2. She had a positive attitude – She said walking uphill was even easier, which showed her cheerful spirit.
3. She walked faster than Mani – On the way, Mani stopped to eat berries, but Granny kept walking. This shows she had stamina and didn’t get tired easily.
4. She didn’t complain – When Mani offered to rest, Granny said they’d rest only when he was hungry, not her. This shows her strength.
5. She took the lead – Granny was always ready for the journey and even packed food without telling Mani, showing she was prepared and confident.

4. Why does Mani’s father call Granny’s journey to Mussoorie a ‘shopping trip?’
Mani’s father called the journey a ‘shopping trip’ because Granny started making a long list of things she wanted to buy in Mussoorie, apart from getting her eyes tested. She talked about buying seeds, bulbs, a new bell for the white cow, a pullover for Mani’s father, and shoes for Mani. This made her journey seem more like an opportunity to shop and get useful things for the house and family, rather than a medical visit. Mani’s father had only a hundred rupees to spare, and he was worried that Granny was planning to spend more than that.

5. Why couldn’t Mani keep up with Granny on the way?
Mani couldn’t keep up with Granny because she was walking steadily without taking many breaks. When Mani stopped to pick and eat wild blackberries, Granny continued walking without waiting for him. She wasn’t interested in berries and didn’t slow down. Mani had to run to catch up with her. This shows Granny’s energy and determination to complete the journey without wasting time. Even though she was seventy years old, her pace was firm and strong.

6. Make a list of recent natural calamities in Kerala first and then outside. Discuss the possible causes of these.
In Kerala:

• 2018, 2019, 2021: Heavy floods and landslides in various districts.
• 2022: Cyclone Asani caused heavy rainfall and coastal damage.
• 2023: Floods in Pathanamthitta and Wayanad due to intense monsoon rain.

Outside Kerala (India):

• 2021: Uttarakhand glacier burst caused a deadly flood in Chamoli.
• 2023: Sikkim flash floods due to cloudburst.
• 2024: Cyclone Michaung hit Chennai and Andhra Pradesh, causing severe flooding.

Possible Causes:

• Climate change: Warmer temperatures cause more rain and melting glaciers.
• Deforestation: Cutting down trees weakens the soil and causes landslides.
• Unplanned construction: Building on hills and river banks increases flood risk.
• Poor drainage systems: Overflowing drains lead to waterlogging and floods.

7. Narrate your experiences of journeys delayed on account of natural calamities or breakdowns.
Once, during a train journey to Chennai, heavy rains caused flooding on the tracks. Our train had to stop at a small station for more than six hours. It was hot and crowded, and there was no proper food or water. People were restless and worried. The station master announced that the tracks ahead were damaged. Finally, we had to return to our starting point. Though it was tiring and disappointing, we were thankful to be safe. This experience taught me the power of nature and the importance of patience during emergencies.

8. The doctor says he will send Granny’s glasses to the museum. What does he mean?
The doctor was joking when he said that he would send Granny’s glasses to a museum. He meant that the glasses were very old and outdated—so old that they belonged to the past and could be kept as historical items in a museum! It was his way of saying that Granny should have changed her glasses many years ago. Her old glasses were not only useless but had probably damaged her eyesight further. The doctor was surprised she had been using them for so long.

9. What was Granny’s reaction when she saw Mani clearly?
Granny was filled with joy and surprise when she saw Mani clearly for the first time in years. She clapped her hands happily and said how handsome he looked. She said he was a fine boy whom she had brought up well. But at the same time, like a caring grandmother, she pointed out that he needed a haircut, a wash, buttons on his shirt, and new shoes! This shows her love and attention to detail. She was happy and proud but also practical and thoughtful about his appearance.

Let’s Rewind

1. Why does Granny finally agree to travel to Mussoorie?
Granny finally agrees to travel to Mussoorie because she finds out that Mani would be coming along with her. At first, she was not ready to go because it meant being separated from Mani and because the journey seemed long and difficult. But once Mani offered to take her and mentioned that he had been to Mussoorie before, Granny became more enthusiastic. She loved the idea of being with her grandson on the journey and even started planning what things to buy there. This shows that her love for Mani motivated her to go.

2. Granny’s courage and determination are evident in the story. Substantiate this statement with instances.
Granny shows courage and determination in many ways:

• Despite her poor eyesight, she is not afraid to travel a long distance to Mussoorie.
• She insists on walking all the way to Nain and confidently says she can manage.
• When faced with the landslide, she does not panic but agrees to take the mountain path.
• She climbs up and down hills in rain and sunshine, without complaining.
• Even after reaching Mussoorie, she stands in a long queue at the hospital patiently.

These moments show Granny is brave, strong-willed, and ready to face challenges with a positive spirit.

3. How does Mani support Granny during their journey? What does this reveal about his character?
Mani supports Granny in many ways during their journey:

• He offers to take her to Mussoorie himself.
• He carries a bedding-roll and walks beside her the whole way.
• He offers rest breaks and cares about her comfort.
• He helps her at the bus station and is always alert to her needs.
• He laughs and encourages her, and even supports her emotionally.

This shows Mani is loving, responsible, kind, and mature for his age. He respects his grandmother and is willing to go through hardship to help her.

4. ‘A shoulder to rest on is a blessing indeed.’ Don’t you agree? How does the story highlight the bond between generations?
Yes, a shoulder to rest on is truly a blessing. In the story, this is shown when Granny rests her head on Mani’s shoulder in the bus, and later, Mani rests his head on Granny’s shoulder while returning home. These moments are symbolic. They show mutual support and love across generations. The story beautifully captures how the older generation (Granny) takes care of the young, and then the young (Mani) begins to care for the elder in return. Their bond is filled with trust, affection, and shared experiences. It reminds us how important family and togetherness are.

My Words

Describing Words

My Questions

1. What could Granny hear and smell at the beginning of the story?
2. How did Granny describe Mani’s eyes?
3. Why was Granny’s vision so poor?
4. Where did Mani say they had to go for an eye check-up?
5. How did Granny feel about leaving Mani behind?
6. Why did Granny say “there’s nothing wrong with my legs”?
7. What did Granny plan to buy in Mussoorie?
8. Who offered to take Granny to Mussoorie first?
9. What did Mani carry during the walk?
10. Why did Mani’s lips turn purple?
11. What did Granny say about the mist in the valley?
12. Where did they take shelter from the rain in Nain?
13. What happened to the bus on the way to Mussoorie?
14. How did Granny react to the landslide?
15. Why did some passengers decide to walk to Mussoorie?
16. What food did Granny bring from Uncle’s house?
17. Where did they spend the night in Mussoorie?
18. What did the doctor say about Granny’s glasses?
19. What was the first thing Granny noticed about Mani after getting new glasses?
20. What did Granny see from the bus window on the way back?

Textual Analysis

June 26, 2025