Class 9 English - BIHAR
Supplementary: The Lost Child
Supplementary: The Lost Child by Mulk Raj Anand is a poignant tale included in the Class 9 Bihar Board (BSEB) English curriculum. It narrates the story of a small boy who visits a vibrant spring fair with his parents. Attracted by the colorful toys, sweets, balloon vendor, and a snake charmer, he gets distracted and eventually gets lost in the bustling crowd. Panic sets in as he realizes his parents are nowhere to be seen. A kind stranger tries to pacify him by offering all the things he previously desired, but the child refuses them, crying only for his mother and father. The chapter emphasizes the deep emotional bond between parents and children, teaching students that parental love is far more valuable than worldly possessions.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Innocence of Childhood
The child is fascinated by simple joys like toys, balloons, and sweets at the fair, reflecting the pure and carefree nature of childhood.
Distraction and Despair
A moment of intense fascination causes the boy to lose sight of his parents, quickly turning his excitement into absolute panic and terror.
Realization of True Priorities
When lost, the child rejects all the things he wanted earlier, proving that material desires hold no value without the security of family.
Unconditional Parental Love
The story highlights the irreplaceable nature of parents, showing that no worldly pleasure can substitute the comfort and safety of mother and father.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Bihar Board (BSEB) Class 9 English examinations, this chapter typically carries around 5 to 8 marks. Questions usually include short-answer type questions focusing on the boy's reactions, multiple-choice questions (MCQs) testing comprehension of the text, and long-answer questions exploring the central theme of parental affection versus material wealth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the child lose interest in the toys and sweets when he gets lost?
When the child gets lost, panic takes over, and he realizes that his parents' safety and presence matter more to him than any toys, sweets, or balloons.
Who tries to help the lost child at the fair?
A kind-hearted man rescues the crying child from being trampled in the stampede and tries to soothe him by offering various items he wanted earlier.
What is the main message of the story 'The Lost Child'?
The main message is that material possessions cannot replace the unconditional love and security provided by one's parents.
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