Class 9 English - ODISHA
Prose: Kathmandu
Kathmandu, a travelogue by Vikram Seth from his book 'Heaven Lake', takes Class 9 students on a vivid journey to the capital of Nepal. The chapter captures the author's visits to two famous shrines: the Pashupatinath temple, known for its chaotic and bustling Hindu devotion, and the Baudhnath stupa, which offers a serene and peaceful Buddhist atmosphere. Seth also contrasts the frantic street life of Kathmandu—filled with flute sellers, hawkers, and pollution—with the quiet calm of the stupa. For BSE Odisha board exams, this chapter is important for testing comprehension, travelogue features, and descriptive writing skills.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Travelogue Genre
A type of literature where an author writes about their personal travel experiences, observations, and reflections on different places.
Pashupatinath Temple
A sacred Hindu temple in Kathmandu where strict rules apply, and the atmosphere is busy, noisy, and crowded with worshippers, priests, and animals.
Baudhnath Stupa
A Buddhist shrine in Kathmandu characterized by a sense of stillness, peace, and quietness amidst the bustling city streets.
The Flute Seller
A modest vendor in Kathmandu who plays his bansuri thoughtfully and meditatively, standing apart from aggressive commercial hawkers.
Sensory Details
Descriptive language used by Vikram Seth to appeal to the senses of sight, sound, and smell to make the reader feel present in Kathmandu.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the BSE Odisha Class 9 English examination, this chapter typically carries around 4 to 8 marks. Questions usually include multiple-choice questions (MCQs), short-answer questions about the two temples, and long-answer questions testing the comparison of the author's experiences at Pashupatinath and Baudhnath.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of the chapter Kathmandu?
The chapter highlights the cultural richness, contrasting atmospheres of religious sites, and the observant nature of a traveler.
How does the author contrast Pashupatinath and Baudhnath Stupa?
Pashupatinath is described as chaotic, noisy, and full of frantic activity, whereas Baudhnath Stupa is an oasis of calm and quietness.
Why does the author find the flute seller different from other hawkers?
Unlike other hawkers who shout to attract buyers, the flute seller plays his instrument meditatively and without excessive urgency.
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