CBSE Class 11 English Chapter 2: A Pair of Mustachios NCERT Solutions

Solution: From the episode, Ramanand, the grocer and money lender, is revealed to be a shrewd and cunning individual with a naturally servile disposition suited to his profession. He avoids direct confrontation, preferring to use cleverness and subtle provocation, particularly by playing on his customers' pride, to achieve his aims. He prioritizes his business interests above all else, demonstrating a pragmatic approach where he appears to regard his customers as always right, at least in principle, to maintain business flow.

In contrast, Azam Khan is portrayed as a victim of misplaced pride and arrogance, dwelling on the past glory of his ancestors. He is easily angered, short-sighted, and willing to sacrifice his property for the sake of upholding a perceived honor, such as Ramanand's moustache being lower than his. His actions suggest he is impractical, quick-tempered, and unaware of what truly benefits him, living in a bygone era.

Solution: Ramanand's business acumen is clearly demonstrated through his interaction with Azam Khan. When Azam Khan demands that Ramanand lower his moustache, Ramanand readily agrees. However, he cleverly lowers only one tip of his moustache. This subtle action is a strategic move designed to provoke Khan further, encouraging him to mortgage more of his property. Ramanand's ability to remain calm, avoid anger, and prioritize his business interests above personal pride or conflict showcases his sharp business sense.

Solution: Ramanand and Azam Khan both hold rigid views about themselves and their social standing, influenced by a milieu that categorizes people based on symbols like moustaches. Ramanand belongs to the 'goat' class, while Azam Khan belongs to the 'tiger' class, and they adhere to the unspoken boundaries between these social groups.

Towards the end, Ramanand outsmarts Azam Khan through his adaptability and cunning. He cleverly turns up the tip of his 'goat' moustache so that it resembles a 'tiger' moustache. This action enrages Azam Khan, who feels his social superiority is threatened. Exploiting Khan's impulsive anger and pride, Ramanand tricks him into selling all his property, thus scoring a significant victory through manipulation rather than direct confrontation.

Solution: The author uses a light-hearted narrative tone to ridicule several social mores. He mocks the society and individuals who take excessive pride in their community, lineage, or superficial status symbols, often at the expense of practical matters and their own well-being. The story satirizes those who prioritize maintaining an image over actual possessions or sensible decision-making. It highlights how such individuals, blinded by their 'foolish' pride, can be easily exploited by smarter, more pragmatic people like Ramanand. These individuals, while appearing to uphold their status, are ultimately weaving their own downfall through their insensitivity and adherence to worn-out social conventions.

Solution: The references to the English people and the British monarchy serve to highlight a critical aspect of Indian society during the colonial era and beyond: the tendency to take pride in the culture and language of the rulers rather than valuing one's own rich heritage. The story points out how individuals who associated closely with the British Raj, often referred to as 'nabobs' and 'babus,' were respected, even though they were instrumental in upholding British authority. By citing examples, such as the 'lion moustache' associated with English generals and its parallel with Indian 'rajas' and 'maharajas,' the author illustrates how Indians often found pride in mimicking or aligning themselves with the dominant British culture, signifying a form of cultural subservience.

Solution: The author's central message is that individuals and societies that cling to outdated, impractical values and false pride often lead to their own downfall. The story advocates for evolution and adaptation in line with the progress of time and society. Sticking rigidly to past glories or superficial status symbols does not lead to prosperity. Instead, the author advises caution and awareness, urging people to be vigilant against those who might take advantage of their virtues or outdated beliefs. Essentially, the message is to embrace change, be practical, and avoid being misled by hollow pride.

Solution: The theme of the story, centered around moustaches as status symbols, is introduced in a manner that is both scientific and light-hearted. Initially, the reader might perceive it as a simple essay on the styles and pride associated with Indian moustaches. However, the author skillfully uses this seemingly mundane topic as a gateway to a deeper narrative. By providing a detailed description of the object around which the entire story revolves, the author prepares the reader for the underlying message. This introduction effectively sets the stage for exploring how men's fortunes rise and fall based on their adherence to or alteration of such status symbols.

Solution: The inclusion of dialogue significantly enhances the story's interest and effectiveness. Dialogues allow the writer to present characters' perspectives and emotions directly, using their authentic voice and expressions, which might not be suitable for a narrator's voice. For instance, Azam Khan's angry outbursts, such as "You know what I mean, seed of a donkey!" or "I tell you, turn that tip down," and his threats like "I shall wring your neck," vividly portray his temper and arrogance. These direct exchanges make the characters more real, drive the plot forward, and add dramatic tension and realism to the narrative.

Solution: The story highlights how certain French words have become integrated into the English language. Here are a few more examples of French words and expressions commonly used in English:

• Rendezvous: A meeting at an agreed time and place.
• Déjà vu: The feeling that one has lived this experience before.
• Coup d'état: A sudden, violent, and illegal seizure of power from a government.
• Fiancé/Fiancée: A person to whom one is engaged to be married.
• RSVP (Répondez s'il vous plaît): Please respond (used on invitations).
• Bon appétit: Enjoy your meal.
• Chic: Elegantly and stylishly fashionable.
• Entrepreneur: A person who sets up a business or businesses, taking on financial risks in the hope of profit.