CBSE Class 9 English Moments Chapter 3: Iswaran the Storyteller - NCERT Solutions

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This section provides detailed NCERT Solutions for Class 9 English Moments, Chapter 3, 'Iswaran the Storyteller'. It delves into the character of Iswaran, exploring his role as a domestic assistant and entertainer to Mahendra. The solutions analyze Iswaran's storytelling abilities, his vivid descriptions of events like the uprooted tree and the tusker incident, and how these narratives compensate for the lack of modern entertainment like television. It also examines Mahendra's initial skepticism towards supernatural tales and his eventual fright on a full-moon night, highlighting the psychological impact of Iswaran's stories. These solutions are designed to help students grasp the nuances of the chapter, understand character motivations, and prepare effectively for their exams.

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Quick info

BoardCBSE
ClassClass 9
SubjectEnglish Moments
Session2026
LanguageEnglish
TypeNCERT Solutions
ChapterChapter 3

Chapter summary

Chapter 3 of CBSE Class 9 English Moments, 'Iswaran the Storyteller,' focuses on the unique relationship between Mahendra and his cook, Iswaran. The NCERT Solutions cover Iswaran's multifaceted role as a skilled cook, resourceful helper, and captivating storyteller. They analyze his descriptive narrative style, the plausibility of his tales, and his ability to entertain Mahendra, making him an invaluable asset. The solutions also touch upon Mahendra's perspective on supernatural elements and his reaction to Iswaran's ghost stories, providing a comprehensive understanding of the chapter's themes and characters.

Learning outcomes

  • Understand the importance of a good domestic assistant and entertainer.
  • Analyze Iswaran's storytelling techniques and their impact on the listener.
  • Evaluate the plausibility of fictional narratives.
  • Explain how storytelling can compensate for the lack of modern amenities.
  • Discuss the psychological effects of fear and belief in the supernatural.

Topics covered

Paper topics

  • Iswaran's role as a domestic assistant
  • Storytelling techniques
  • Narrative suspense
  • Plausibility in stories
  • Mahendra's character
  • Fear of the unknown
  • Supernatural elements
  • Companionship
  • Imagination vs. Reality

Important topics

  • Iswaran's storytelling abilities
  • Analysis of narrative techniques
  • Mahendra's reaction to Iswaran's stories
  • The theme of companionship
  • The role of imagination

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Questions and Solutions

1. In what way is Iswaran an asset to Mahendra?

In what way is Iswaran an asset to Mahendra?
Solution: Iswaran proves to be a significant asset to Mahendra in multiple ways. Beyond his primary duty of cooking and managing the household chores efficiently, he serves as a source of entertainment. Iswaran possesses the remarkable ability to procure vegetables even from seemingly barren surroundings, ensuring Mahendra never lacks necessities. Furthermore, his talent for storytelling captivates Mahendra, making him an excellent companion and alleviating any boredom Mahendra might experience in his isolated posting. His resourcefulness and entertaining nature make him indispensable to Mahendra.

2. How does Iswaran describe the uprooted tree on the highway? What effect does he want to create in his listeners?

How does Iswaran describe the uprooted tree on the highway? What effect does he want to create in his listeners?
Solution: Iswaran describes the uprooted tree on the highway with dramatic flair. He recounts how, while traveling alone on a deserted road, he suddenly encountered something resembling an enormous, sprawling 'bushy beast' lying across his path. His eyebrows would arch, and his hands would gesture wildly as he narrated this. The effect he aims to create in his listeners is one of suspense and surprise. He builds tension by presenting the object as frightening and mysterious before revealing it to be a fallen tree, thereby making his narrative engaging and memorable.

3. How does he narrate the story of the tusker? Does it appear to be plausible?

How does he narrate the story of the tusker? Does it appear to be plausible?
Solution: Iswaran narrates the story of the tusker with great detail and dramatic embellishment. He begins by describing elephants as 'huge well-fed beasts.' He recounts how a tusker, having escaped from a timber yard, went on a rampage, destroying stalls, smashing pots and clothes, and entering a school. He vividly describes the chaos, the fear of students and teachers, and then details his own supposed heroic act of confronting the elephant. He claims to have grabbed a cane, faced the charging elephant, and hit its toenail, causing it to collapse. This narrative, particularly the part where a young Iswaran single-handedly subdues a wild elephant, does not appear to be plausible; it seems highly exaggerated for dramatic effect.

4. Why does the author say that Iswaran seemed to more than make up for the absence of a TV in Mahendra's living quarters?

Why does the author say that Iswaran seemed to more than make up for the absence of a TV in Mahendra's living quarters?
Solution: The author states that Iswaran more than compensated for the lack of a television because he provided Mahendra with constant companionship and entertainment. In the evenings, after Mahendra returned from work, Iswaran would engage him in conversation and, more importantly, tell him fascinating stories. These narratives, filled with suspense and imagination, kept Mahendra thoroughly engaged and amused. Thus, Iswaran's presence and his storytelling abilities eliminated any need or desire for a TV, making Mahendra's living quarters feel lively and entertaining.

5. Mahendra calls ghosts or spirits a figment of the imagination. What happens to him on a full-moon night?

Mahendra calls ghosts or spirits a figment of the imagination. What happens to him on a full-moon night?
Solution: Mahendra initially dismisses ghosts and spirits as mere figments of imagination, partly influenced by Iswaran's own ghost stories and the fact that they lived near a burial ground. However, his skepticism is challenged on a full-moon night. He is awakened by a low, guttural moaning sound near his window, which he initially mistakes for a cat. The sound intensifies, and despite his fear, he looks out. In the moonlight, he sees a dark, cloudy form clutching a bundle. This terrifying sight causes him to break out in a cold sweat and fall back onto his pillow, panting, profoundly shaken by the experience.

6. Can you think of some other ending for the story?

Can you think of some other ending for the story?
Solution: Certainly, the story could have concluded differently. One alternative ending might have seen Mahendra, instead of resigning, confronting his fear and perhaps discovering a rational explanation for the sounds, thereby proving his initial belief about ghosts being imaginary. Another possibility is that Mahendra, recognizing Iswaran's value as a companion and storyteller, decides to stay. In this version, both Mahendra and Iswaran could leave the place together, maintaining their strong bond and continuing their journey, highlighting the deep connection they formed.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing Iswaran's fictional tales with reality.
  • Underestimating the role of storytelling in building relationships.
  • Failing to analyze the author's intent behind Iswaran's character.

Revision tips

  • Focus on Iswaran's descriptive language and how it creates vivid imagery.
  • Consider Mahendra's changing reactions to Iswaran's stories.
  • Think about the underlying themes of companionship and imagination.
  • Practice summarizing Iswaran's different tales in your own words.

Practice MCQs

Q1. What made Iswaran an asset to Mahendra?

Q2. How did Iswaran describe the uprooted tree to create suspense?

Q3. What was the main effect Iswaran wanted to create with his stories?

Q4. Why did Mahendra initially dismiss Iswaran's ghost stories?

Q5. What sound woke Mahendra on the full-moon night?

Frequently asked questions

Who is Iswaran and why is he important in Chapter 3 of Class 9 English Moments?

Iswaran is Mahendra's cook and a central character. He is important because he is not just a domestic helper but also a skilled storyteller who entertains Mahendra, making him an asset.

How does Iswaran's storytelling affect Mahendra?

Iswaran's vivid and suspenseful stories entertain Mahendra, filling the void of entertainment like TV and making Mahendra feel less lonely. However, they also instill a sense of fear, especially regarding supernatural tales.

What is the significance of the full-moon night incident for Mahendra?

The incident on the full-moon night, where Mahendra hears a moan and sees a figure, challenges his rational belief that ghosts are imaginary. It shows the psychological impact of Iswaran's stories on him.

Are Iswaran's stories believable?

The chapter suggests that while Iswaran's storytelling is captivating, his tales, like the one about the tusker, are often exaggerated and not entirely plausible, serving more as entertainment than factual accounts.

How do these NCERT Solutions help Class 9 students?

These solutions provide clear explanations of the chapter's content, character analysis, and thematic understanding, helping students grasp the nuances of 'Iswaran the Storyteller' for better comprehension and exam preparation.

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