Class 10 Hindi - WEST-BENGAL
Prose: Netaji ka Chashma
Netaji ka Chashma by Swayamprakash is a thought-provoking story included in the Class 10 Hindi curriculum for West Bengal Board (WBBSE) students. The chapter revolves around Captain Chashmewala, a patriotic vendor who replaces a missing pair of spectacles on Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose's statue in the town square. Through characters like Haldar Sahab and the panwala, the story explores the true essence of patriotism, reminding students that nation-building is not just the responsibility of leaders, but of every ordinary citizen. For board exams, this chapter is crucial as it tests students' understanding of social responsibility, moral values, and character analysis.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Capain Chashmewala (कैप्टन चश्मेवाला)
An eccentric yet deeply patriotic hawker who sells spectacles and takes pride in placing a frame on Netaji's statue, showing that true respect for national heroes comes from within.
Haldar Sahab (हालदार साहब)
A government official who passes through the town regularly, observes the changing spectacles on the statue, and gradually understands and appreciates the hidden patriotism of the townspeople.
The Panwala (पानवाला)
A local shopkeeper who initially makes sarcastic remarks about the Captain's physical appearance and obsession with Netaji's spectacles, reflecting society's indifference toward selfless individuals.
Theme of Patriotism (देशभक्ति की भावना)
The chapter highlights that patriotism is not limited to soldiers at the border; even common people like Captain contribute to the nation through their love for freedom fighters.
Significance of the Spectacles (चश्मे का महत्व)
The missing spectacles symbolize the incomplete vision or neglect of national ideals by society, which the Captain tries to fix in his own small way.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the West Bengal Board (WBBSE) Class 10 Hindi examination, this chapter typically carries around 5 to 8 marks. Common question types include short answer questions based on the plot, character sketches of Captain Chashmewala and Haldar Sahab, and value-based long-answer questions about the message of patriotism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Captain Chashmewala keep changing the spectacles on Netaji's statue?
The original statue was sculpted without glasses, and the Captain felt it was disrespectful to Netaji. Since he felt bad for the eyeless statue, he used to put one of his own frames on it whenever a customer demanded a similar one.
What was Haldar Sahab's initial reaction to the Captain, and how did it change?
Initially, Haldar Sahab was amused and curious about why the spectacles kept changing. However, when he learned about the Captain's patriotism and his eventual death, he was filled with respect for him.
What is the core message of the story 'Netaji ka Chashma'?
The story teaches us that patriotism is not restricted to great historical figures or soldiers alone; every ordinary citizen who respects the nation's heroes and contributes to society in their own way is a true patriot.
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