Class 9 English - ANDHRA-PRADESH
Prose: Kathmandu
Kathmandu by Vikram Seth is a travelogue included in the Class 9 English syllabus for Andhra Pradesh (BSEAP) students. The chapter describes the author's visits to two sacred shrines in Kathmandu, Nepal: the Pashupatinath temple and the Boudhanath stupa. Seth vividly portrays the chaotic, busy atmosphere of Pashupatinath and contrasts it with the serene, quiet, and peaceful environment of the Boudhanath stupa. He also describes the bustling streets of Kathmandu, filled with fruit sellers, flute sellers, and film advertisements. The chapter is important for board exams as it tests reading comprehension and descriptive writing skills.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Pashupatinath Temple
A sacred Hindu temple where an atmosphere of feverish confusion and bustling activity prevails, featuring priests, worshippers, and roaming monkeys.
Boudhanath Stupa
A Buddhist shrine that offers a stark contrast to Pashupatinath, characterized by a sense of stillness, peace, and an absence of crowds.
The Flute Seller
An observant description of a seller carrying a pole of flutes, playing them meditatively without aggressive salesmanship, symbolizing simple joys.
Contrasting Atmospheres
The literary technique used by the author to compare the chaotic Hindu temple with the calm Buddhist stupa, highlighting cultural diversity.
Travelogue
A piece of writing about a journey or place visited, where the author shares personal observations, experiences, and reflections.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Andhra Pradesh (BSEAP) Class 9 English board exams, this chapter typically carries around 4 to 8 marks. Questions commonly include reading comprehension passages, paragraph-based questions about the differences between the two shrines, character-based or thematic questions, and vocabulary exercises.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of the chapter Kathmandu?
The chapter highlights the cultural richness, contrasting religious atmospheres, and vibrant street life of Kathmandu, Nepal.
How does the author describe the atmosphere at Pashupatinath temple?
The author describes it as an area of 'febrile confusion' with large crowds, priests, worshippers, and mischievous monkeys creating chaos.
Why is the Boudhanath stupa described as a haven of stillness?
Unlike Pashupatinath, the Buddhist stupa has no crowds around itsimmense white dome, creating an aura of peace and quietness amidst the busy city.
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