Class 9 Hindi - TAMILNADU
Supplementary: Reedh ki Haddi
Supplementary chapter 'Reedh ki Haddi' (रीढ़ की हड्डी) by Jagdish Chandra Mathur is a thought-provoking one-act play included in the Class 9 Tamil Nadu Samacheer Kalvi Hindi curriculum. The title literally means 'backbone', but here it metaphorically highlights self-respect, moral courage, and the backbone of human character, especially concerning gender equality and women's education. The play revolves around the prospective groom's family visiting a college-educated girl named Uma for marriage. Through witty dialogue and realistic situations, the author critiques regressive societal mindsets that treat girls as commodities while emphasizing the importance of empowering women through education.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Social Satire
The play uses humor and irony to expose the hypocrisies and orthodox traditions prevalent in Indian society regarding marriage and gender roles.
Importance of Women's Education
Through the protagonist Uma, the chapter strongly advocates that education is essential for girls to build self-confidence and stand up against societal injustices.
Concept of 'Reedh ki Haddi' (Backbone)
Metaphorically used to describe people who lack independent thinking, moral courage, and self-respect, like the character Shankar in the play.
Character Contrast
The contrast between Ramswaroop (a father willing to compromise his values for his daughter's marriage) and Uma (a bold girl with immense self-respect).
The One-Act Play Format
Understanding dramatic elements like stage directions, dialogue delivery, and plot progression within a single-act setting.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Tamil Nadu (Samacheer Kalvi) Class 9 Hindi Board examinations, supplementary chapters like 'Reedh ki Haddi' typically carry around 5 to 8 marks. Questions usually include short answer questions, character sketches of Uma or Ramswaroop, message-based long answer questions, and contextual reference (सपसंग व्याख्या).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central theme of the chapter 'Reedh ki Haddi'?
The central theme is gender equality, the importance of women's education, and the necessity of self-respect over societal pressure.
Why is the play titled 'Reedh ki Haddi'?
The title is used ironically to mock people like Shankar and his father who lack a moral 'backbone' or independent thinking and blindly follow orthodox practices.
How does Uma prove her point in front of the groom's family?
Uma courageously speaks up against the shallow expectations of Shankar and his father, revealing that Shankar lacks character and has been chased by college girls, thus exposing their hypocrisy.
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