Class 10 English - PUNJAB
Supplementary: Bholi
Bholi, written by K.A. Abbas, is a moving story about a neglected girl named Sulekha who overcomes her physical and mental setbacks to emerge as an empowered, educated individual. Afflicted by a brain injury in childhood and disfigured by smallpox pockmarks, Bholi stammers and lacks confidence. Her turning point arrives when she is sent to school, where an affectionate teacher transforms her life. In the Punjab PSEB board exams, this chapter is crucial for testing character analysis, especially Bholi's transformation from a timid, submissive girl into a bold, self-respecting woman who bravely rejects a greedy groom.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
The Impact of Neglect
Bholi's low self-esteem stems from parental apathy; she is treated as a burden because of her looks and stammer, highlighting how a lack of encouragement stunts a child's growth.
The Role of Education
The primary school teacher acts as Bholi's mentor and savior, showing patience and kindness that instills confidence and empowers Bholi to speak without hesitation.
Social Evils (Dowry System)
The story strongly critiques the societal evil of dowry through the character of Bishamber Nath, an elderly, lame groom who demands a hefty sum of money from Bholi's father.
Self-Respect and Courage
The climax demonstrates Bholi's immense moral courage when she refuses to marry the greedy Bishamber, choosing instead to remain unmarried and serve her parents while teaching at her school.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Punjab (PSEB) Class 10 English board examination, chapters from the supplementary reader typically carry questions worth 3 to 5 marks. Students can expect short answer questions focusing on character sketches (Bholi, the teacher, or Bishamber), plot details, and long answer questions based on the central theme of women empowerment and the evils of the dowry system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Sulekha nicknamed Bholi?
Sulekha was nicknamed Bholi, which means a simpleton, because she was a backward child who suffered a brain injury in her infancy and learned to speak much later than other children.
How did the teacher change Bholi's life?
The teacher showed immense love, encouragement, and patience. She gave Bholi a book with pictures, spoke to her soothingly, and instilled confidence in her, which removed her fear and stammering.
Why did Bholi refuse to marry Bishamber at the last moment?
Bholi refused to marry Bishamber because he demanded a dowry of 5,000 rupees upon seeing her pockmarked face. Disgusted by his greed and cowardice, she threw the garland into the fire and decided not to marry him.
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