Wit and Humour — Class 7 English
Poorvi · Chapter 2
Visual story
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7- Mathematics
- Science
- + 3 more
- Space weighted by chapter size
- Charts from the book's own data
- Traps corrected
2- Mathematics
- Social Science
- Space weighted by chapter size
- Charts from the book's own data
- Traps corrected
- Space weighted by chapter size
- Charts from the book's own data
- Traps corrected
Chapter summary
The story in steps
- Mrs. Shaw cleans the room and tells Mary to behave politely when two guests come to visit.
- Mary insists that she can talk well, so her mother gives her careful advice about pleasing guests.
- When the guests arrive, Mary wrongly says Mrs. Harding has beautiful children she has seen before.
- Mary keeps making rude remarks about bankers, clothes, doctors, talkative women, dogs, and horses.
- Again and again, the guests feel awkward because Mary unknowingly insults things connected to their family.
- As the guests leave, Mary forgets the right words and says, 'Oh, must you stay? Can't you go?'
Key ideas & terms
- Doctor Dolittle
- A kind human physician who learns animal languages from his parrot and happily becomes an animal doctor.
- Polynesia
- Doctor Dolittle's clever parrot who reveals that animals can speak and teaches him their languages.
- The funny man
- The eccentric figure in the poem whose reversed, absurd actions (shoe on head, hats on feet) create nonsense humour.
- Mary Shaw
- The outspoken young girl in the play whose blunt, tactless remarks cause one comic blunder after another.
- Dramatic irony
- A device in the play where the audience sees Mary doing the very opposite of the polite advice she was given.
- Inversion
- A poetic device in 'A Funny Man' where normal word order and object roles are reversed for comic, nonsensical effect.
शब्दार्थ · Word meanings
- hilariously
- in a very funny way
- blunders
- careless mistakes
- embarrasses
- makes others feel uncomfortable
- wealthy
- rich
- gladly
- happily
- quietly
- in a soft, low voice
- banker
- person who works in a bank
- talkative
- talking too much
- practises shooting
- does shooting as an activity
- unable
- not able
Extra questions & answers
How did Doctor Dolittle come to understand animal languages?
His parrot Polynesia revealed that animals have their own languages and taught him their words, which he eagerly wrote down and learned.
Why did Doctor Dolittle stop being a people's doctor?
Once he could talk with animals, he found he understood them far better than human patients, so he became an animal doctor instead.
What makes Polynesia a good teacher of animal language?
She patiently dictates bird and animal words, explains how creatures communicate through sounds and movements, and helps the Doctor become fluent.
What unusual things does the funny man do in the poem?
He wears a shoe on his head and hats on his feet, lifts the shoe like a hat, calls a currant bun a rose, and sings a strange song.
How does the funny man's behaviour affect the mood of the poem?
His absurd, reversed actions make the poem light, playful and full of nonsense humour, leaving the reader amused.
In the play, what advice does the mother give Mary before the guests arrive?
She tells Mary to be kind and pleasant, to flatter people, to laugh, and never to say anything that might offend the visitors.
What kind of blunders does Mary make with the guests?
She insists a guest has children she does not have, criticises a banker, mocks a neighbour's clothes, and insults talkative women.
What does the repeated stage direction 'No one speaks' show?
It shows the embarrassed, awkward silence that follows each of Mary's tactless remarks, deepening the comedy of the scene.
What lesson does the humorous play teach?
It shows the importance of tact and of knowing what to say at the right time, because honesty without sensitivity can embarrass others.
What is the overall theme that links the three readings in this unit?
They all explore wit and humour — arising from curiosity, nonsense and reversed behaviour, and from the comic gap between intention and result.
Let us do these activities before we read.
I Do you have a pet or a domestic animal? If yes, why? If not, why not? How do people usually spend time with a pet or domestic animal? Share your thoughts with your classmates and the teacher.
This is a discussion activity. Many students have pets like dogs, cats or cows for companionship, help or affection, while others do not due to space or responsibilities. People spend time with pets by feeding, playing, walking, grooming and talking to them.
II You must have read stories where animals and birds talk. If you had a chance to communicate with an animal or a bird, who would you like to speak to and why? Share your thoughts with your classmates and the teacher.
This is an open choice. For example, one might like to speak to a parrot to learn about flying, or to a dog to understand its loyalty and feelings. The reason is curiosity and friendship.
III If we closely observe the body language of animals and birds, we can understand what they want to tell us. Work in pairs and study the pictures given below. Find out what emotions these animals and birds are trying to convey. Share your observations with your classmates and the teacher.
Picture 1 shows an angry duck with spread wings and open beak. Picture 2 shows a frightened or aggressive cat with arched back. Picture 3 shows a happy friendly dog with tongue out. Picture 4 shows a surprised or calling cockatoo with crest raised.
Let us discuss
I Complete the following sentence by selecting a suitable reason. The Cat’s-food-Man suggests to Doctor Dolittle that he should become an animal doctor because he believes that Dolittle ______________________________________________________. 1. earns less fee by treating human patients 2. enjoys the company of animals as they speak less 3. dislikes spending time with human patients 4. knows more about animals than the local veterinarians
The correct choice is 4. knows more about animals than the local veterinarians. The Cat's-food-Man says Dolittle knows more about cats and animals than the vets and his book on cats is wonderful.
II Fill in the blanks by choosing the suitable option given in the brackets. Doctor Dolittle reacts to Polynesia’s information about animal languages with both excitement and ____________ (certainty/curiosity). He rushes to ____________ (write/memorise) the bird words she provides and is interested in learning more.
Doctor Dolittle reacts with both excitement and curiosity. He rushes to write the bird words she provides.
III Do you think Doctor Dolittle would be famous as an animal doctor? If yes, why? If not, why not?
Yes, he would become famous because he can understand and speak animal languages, diagnose correctly by listening to animals themselves, and treats them with kindness, which no other vet can do.
Let us discuss
I What became a common sight in Puddleby after Doctor Dolittle started treating animals? 1. Humans talking to farm animals 2. Farm animals wearing glasses 3. Farm animals learning bird language 4. Birds riding atop farm animals
2. Farm animals wearing glasses became a common sight, after the plough horse received green spectacles and could see well again.
II What challenges do you think Doctor Dolittle might face if more and more animals come to him for help? 1. How might he overcome these challenges to ensure that he provides good treatment?
He would face overcrowding in his house and garden, lack of time, space and different needs for different species. He could overcome this by making separate doors and waiting areas for each animal type, organizing timings, keeping records, and taking help if needed while giving patient individual attention.
III Arrange the following events in correct order according to the story. Two have been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher. 1. Doctor Dolittle decides to stop being a doctor for people and becomes a doctor for animals. 2. Animals from near and far come to Doctor Dolittle for help, crowding his garden. 3. A man with a stomach-ache visits Doctor Dolittle and suggests he should treat animals instead of people. (i) 4. Polynesia teaches Doctor Dolittle animal languages, and he starts understanding and communicating with animals. 5. A plough horse with vision problems visits Doctor Dolittle, who prescribes green spectacles, to improve the horse’s eyesight. 6. The parrot, Polynesia, encourages Doctor Dolittle to become an animal doctor, revealing that animals can talk. (ii) 7. Doctor Dolittle installs special doors for different animals to enter his house for treatment. 8. Doctor Dolittle’s ability to communicate with animals helps him diagnose and treat their illnesses effectively. 9. Doctor Dolittle gains fame among animals worldwide, and they come to him from various places for his help. 10. Word spreads, and people start bringing their sick pets and farm animals to Doctor Dolittle for treatment.
Correct order is: 3 (i) - 6 (ii) - 4 - 1 - 10 - 5 - 8 - 2 - 7 - 9. The Cat's-food-Man's suggestion and Polynesia's encouragement come first, then learning languages, becoming animal doctor, people bringing pets, the horse with glasses, effective treatment, crowding, special doors, and worldwide fame.
Let us think and reflect
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 1. “If I say, ‘Polly wants a cracker’, you understand me. But hear this: Ka-ka oi-ee, fee-fee?” “Good Gracious!” cried the Doctor. “What does that mean?” “That means, ‘Is the porridge hot yet?’—in bird language.” “My! You don’t say so!” said the Doctor. “You never talked that way to me before.” “What would have been the good?” said Polynesia, dusting some cracker crumbs off her left wing. “You wouldn’t have understood me if I had.” (i) Complete the sentence by choosing the correct option. In the line, “Good Gracious!” cried the Doctor, the expression ‘Good Gracious’ can be replaced by ______________! A. bravo B. gosh C. alas D. hurray
B. gosh. Good Gracious expresses surprise, similar to gosh.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 1. (ii) Why had Polynesia never used bird language with the Doctor earlier?
Polynesia had not used bird language earlier because the Doctor would not have understood it, so there was no use in speaking it until he was willing to learn.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 1. (iii) Identify whether the following statement is true or false. Polynesia had been munching on a food item while talking to Doctor Dolittle.
True. She was dusting cracker crumbs off her wing, showing she had been eating a cracker.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 1. (iv) How did Doctor Dolittle feel according to the extract? A. anxious B. surprised C. angry D. relaxed
B. surprised. He says My! You don't say so! and Good Gracious showing wonder.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 2. “I would like a pair like yours,” said the horse—“only green. They’ll keep the Sun out of my eyes while I’m ploughing the field.” “Certainly,” said the Doctor. “Green ones you shall have.” “You know, the trouble is, Sir,” said the plough horse as the Doctor opened the front door to let him out—“the trouble is that anybody thinks he can doctor animals—just because the animals don’t complain. As a matter of fact, it takes a much cleverer man to be a really good animal doctor than it does to be a good people’s doctor.” (i) Choose a word from the extract to complete the analogy. digging: flower bed:: ______________: field
ploughing. Digging is done in a flower bed, ploughing is done in a field.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 2. (ii) Choose the correct word to complete the sentence. Doctor Dolittle’s attitude in the extract is ______________. A. respectful B. sentimental C. understanding D. careful
C. understanding. He listens to the horse and readily agrees to give green spectacles.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 2. (iii) Complete the sentence with an appropriate reason. Based on the extract, we can conclude that doctors take animals for granted because ______________ .
because animals don't complain and cannot speak in human language, so people think anyone can treat them without proper knowledge.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 2. (iv) Do you agree with the concluding sentence of the extract? Why/why not?
Yes, I agree that a good animal doctor needs to be cleverer because animals cannot describe their pain in words, so the doctor must understand their languages and body signals to diagnose correctly.
II Answer the following questions. 1. How can we say that Polynesia was a good trainer of animal language?
Polynesia taught systematically, starting with the Birds' A.B.C., speaking slowly, correcting, explaining that animals talk with ears, feet and tails, and patiently giving words all afternoon until Dolittle could talk himself.
II Answer the following questions. 2. Explain how Doctor Dolittle gave equal and individual attention to each animal who came to him for treatment.
He listened to each animal's own language about pain, made separate entrances labelled HORSES, COWS, SHEEP and a tiny tunnel for mice, and went round to each group, so every kind got proper individual care.
II Answer the following questions. 3. How does Doctor Dolittle’s readiness to follow the parrot’s advice highlight the importance of listening to different viewpoints?
Though a famous people's doctor, he humbly accepted advice from a parrot and the Cat's-food-Man, tried a new path, and succeeded. It shows open-mindedness to learn from anyone leads to growth.
II Answer the following questions. 4. Which qualities of Doctor Dolittle made him famous among the animals? Explain with evidence from the text.
His kindness, curiosity, willingness to learn languages, and excellent medical skill. He learned bird language eagerly, gave the horse green glasses, cured all creatures, and birds spread his fame worldwide.
II Answer the following questions. 5. What changes do you think would happen in the world if people suddenly gained the ability like Doctor Dolittle, to understand and communicate with animals?
People would understand animal needs, treat them better, reduce cruelty, improve veterinary care and conservation, and animals could warn about danger. Overall there would be more empathy and respect for nature.
Let us learn
I Complete the following table correctly by choosing words from the box given below. An example has been done for you. sailor song teatime check-in plough horse harvest mice windowsill well-bred Hyphenated Words | Open Compound Words | Closed Compound Words check-in
Hyphenated Words: well-bred, check-in. Open Compound Words: sailor song, plough horse, harvest mice. Closed Compound Words: teatime, windowsill.
II Create compound words from the table given below. A B 1. fun (i) head 2. high (ii) birds 3. never (iii) flying 4. early (iv) loving 5. song (v) risers 6. over (vi) tops 7. tree (vii) ending Now, complete the paragraph with suitable compound words from the table. An example has been done for you. After being treated by Doctor Dolittle, the A. fun-loving dolphins danced playfully in his sanctuary. The B. _______________ chatter of monkeys echoed through the C. _______________, their ailments cured. D. ______________ eagles soared gracefully E. _______________ their health restored. F. _______________ among the G. _______________ chirped joyfully from the branches. All creatures were happy with Doctor Dolittle’s care.
B. never-ending C. treetops D. High-flying E. overhead F. Songbirds G. early risers. Matching pairs: fun-loving, high-flying, never-ending, early risers, songbirds, overhead, treetops.
III Underline the names of animals that are hidden in the sentences given below. Clues are given within the brackets. An example has been done for you. 1. Dr. Dolittle was eating oatmeal for his breakfast. (a farm animal) 2. Old ladies began to bring him their pets. (an insect) 3. The author sees the connection between humans and animals. (a farm animal) 4. The three baby dinosaurs are from ice age. (field animal) 5. The patients who came late didn’t know where to go. (ship of the desert)
The animals hidden in the sentences are: goat, ant, horse, mice, and camel.
IV Read the sentences below and identify the palindrome words and sentences. 1. Step on no pets. 2. Naman saw a race car at the show. 3. Nitin speaks in Malayalam. 4. The engineer used a rotator to check the surface level. 5. The pilot relied on the radar to navigate safely. 6. Eva can I see bees in a cave? Now, create your own palindrome and share it with your classmates and the teacher.
1. Step on no pets is a palindrome sentence. 2. Naman, race car. 3. Nitin, Malayalam. 4. rotator, level. 5. radar. 6. Eva can I see bees in a cave is palindrome sentence. Example own palindrome: Madam, Was it a cat I saw.
V Underline the verbs and identify the tense form in the following sentences from the text. 1. He is asking you a question. 2. Oh, there are plenty of animal doctors. 3. I am going blind in one eye. 4. … the trouble is that anybody thinks he can doctor animals.
1. is asking - present continuous. 2. are - simple present. 3. am going - present continuous. 4. is, thinks, can doctor - simple present.
Fill in the blanks using the correct form of verbs (present perfect) given within brackets. Since becoming an animal doctor, Doctor Dolittle 1. _________ (learn) to communicate with all animals and birds. He 2. _________ (treat) countless farm animals and pets with care. The parrot, Polynesia, 3. _________ (teach) him bird-language, and he 4. _________ (write) books about his adventures. Many people 5. _________ (bring) their sick animals to his door. Over the years, Dolittle 6. _________ (become) renowned worldwide for his unique abilities.
1. has learnt/learned 2. has treated 3. has taught 4. has written 5. have brought 6. has become.
Let us listen
I You will listen to an announcement. As you listen, state whether the following statement is true or false. (Transcript for the teacher on pg. 88) Dr. Dolittle’s new clinic presents an offer of free medicines.
False. The announcement mentions opening, location, timings and best care, but does not offer free medicines.
II You will listen to the announcement again. As you listen, complete the details given below with one or two exact words you hear. 1. The new clinic is located in the town of ______________. 2. The address is 12, ______________ Lane. 3. The clinic is open Monday to Friday from ______________ a.m. to 5 p.m. 4. Special timings for ______________ are on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 5. Dr. Dolittle will ensure that animals get the ______________. 6. All animals—horses, cows, ______________, wild animals, and others are welcome.
1. Woodstock 2. Rose 3. 9 4. birds 5. best care 6. pets.
Let us speak
Conversation between a doctor and a patient Read the information about the problems 1–4. Use the cue cards provided to guide your conversation. Take turns to play parts of doctor and patient. Problem 1:Cough and cold Solution: Ginger and honey mix Additional Advice: Drink warm fluids and rest. Problem 2:Dry lips Solution: Apply ghee Additional Advice: Stay hydrated and avoid wetting your lips. Problem 3:Sore throat Solution: Gargle with warm salt water. Additional Advice: Drink herbal teas and avoid cold drinks. Problem 4:Fatigue Solution: Ensure adequate sleep and a balanced diet. Additional Advice: Take short walks to increase energy levels.
This is a speaking role-play. Example: Patient: Good morning, Doctor, I have a cough and cold. Doctor: Good morning, since when do you have it? Patient: For two days, with sneezing. Doctor: I suggest a ginger and honey mix, drink warm fluids and rest. When to come again? Doctor: Come after three days if not better. Patient: Thank you, Doctor.
Let us write
Write a notice in about 50 words about the Annual Health Check-up for students of Grades 6–8. Remind students to collect their health check-up cards from the class teacher. Include all other necessary details about date, time, and venue. Complete the draft of the notice by using the words and phrases given in the box below. inform queries health card health check-up assembly hall Grades 6–8 please contact Thursday and Friday Name of the School NOTICE 12 July 20XX _____________________________ This is to _________ all the students of Grades 6–8 about the Annual Health Check-up. Date: _____________, 27 and 28 July 20XX Time: 9:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Venue: _____________________ All students are requested to bring their _________ for the check-up. For _________ or further details _________ the undersigned. Asma In-charge
NOTICE 12 July 20XX Annual Health Check-up This is to inform all the students of Grades 6–8 about the Annual Health Check-up. Date: Thursday and Friday, 27 and 28 July 20XX Time: 9:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Venue: assembly hall All students are requested to bring their health card for the check-up. For queries or further details please contact the undersigned. Asma, In-charge.
Let us explore
I The word ‘goshala’ translates to ‘cowshed’ in English. It is a Sanskrit word that is made up of the words ‘go’, which means ‘cow’, and śālā, which means ‘shed’ or ‘hall’. Plan a visit with the teacher to a ‘goshala’ and find out how the cows are looked after.
Students can visit a nearby goshala with teacher, observe feeding, cleaning, health care and shelter provided to cows and note how they are protected and revered.
II Ayurveda is the oldest existing medical system in India. Animals received good medicinal care in ancient India. Indian medical treatises like Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Harita Samhita contain references of care of animals. Find out names of different organisations that work for the welfare of animals with the help of the teacher.
Some organisations are Blue Cross of India, People for Animals, Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, World Wildlife Fund India, and local gaushalas and animal shelters.
III What is the best way to take care of stray and abandoned animals? 1. Provide food and water for the animal 2. Take them to an animal shelter 3. Adopt them by taking them home Give reasons for your responses.
All three help. Providing food and water gives immediate help, taking to a shelter ensures medical care, and adoption gives permanent loving home. Shelter and adoption are best long-term, while feeding is good temporary support.
Let us do these activities before we read.
Look around you for things or people that make you laugh. Write them in the bubbles given below. Share the reasons for your answers with your classmates and the teacher. Things I Find Funny
This is a personal activity. Examples: a clown with funny dress, a puppy chasing its tail, cartoons, friends mimicking teachers. They are funny because they are unexpected and silly.
Let us discuss
I Work in pairs. Identify the true statements. Check your answers with the teacher. 1. The poet says that she had never heard such an amusing song. 2. The funny man was quite ill-mannered. 3. The funny man wore two hats on his feet. 4. The funny man hopped on his head to reach home. 5. The funny man gave a rose to the poet. 6. The funny man smiled at the poet.
True statements are 1, 3, 4, 6. False are 2 (he was polite) and 5 (he gave a currant bun, not a rose).
II Identify the words from the poem based on the meanings given. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher. 1. a small seedless raisin – C __ R __ __ __ T 2. moved unsteadily – S __ __ G G __ __ __ D
1. CURRANT 2. STAGGERED.
III Complete the following sentences with a reason. 1. The tone of the poem is ___________ because ___________. 2. The rhyme scheme of the poem is ___________; and it gives a ___________ quality to the poem. 3. The poet has frequently repeated the word ‘funny’ in order to ___________.
1. The tone is humorous and playful because the man does absurd things like wearing shoes on head. 2. The rhyme scheme is mostly couplets AABB and it gives a musical, lilting quality. 3. The poet repeats funny to emphasize the absurdity and keep the mood light and comic.
IV Choose the correct answer from the options given in the brackets. 1. The poem uses vivid imagery to create a _______________________ (humorous and nonsensical/ confusing but thought-provoking) scene. 2. The structure of the poem is in ___________ (monologue/ dialogue) form. 3. The phrases ‘sounding sight’ and ‘hopped home’ are examples of ___________. (alliteration/simile)
1. humorous and nonsensical 2. dialogue 3. alliteration. Hopped home is alliteration, sounding sight is also alliterative and oxymoron.
V Rewrite the following line from the poem in the correct order. 1. But never had I seen before Such a funny sounding sight. Sometimes, the poets change the word order (inversion) in a line in order to maintain a rhythm.
But I had never seen such a funny sounding sight before.
V 2. Why has the poet used phrases like ‘funny sounding sight’ and ‘funny feeling sound’ with reference to the funny man?
The poet mixes senses deliberately to show confusion and nonsense, creating humour because a sight cannot be heard and a sound cannot be felt.
VI Can you think of any real-world situations where people do similar things for fun, entertainment, or performance? Share with your classmates and the teacher.
Yes, clowns, comedians, street performers, and actors in fancy dress do silly acts, wear mismatched clothes and perform acrobatics to make people laugh.
Let us think and reflect
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 1. He said, “Allow me to present Your Highness with a rose.” And taking out a currant bun He held it to my nose. I staggered back against the wall And then I answered, “Well!” (i) Why does the funny man address the poet as ‘Your Highness’?
He mockingly treats the poet as royalty to be extra polite and formal while presenting a silly gift, adding to the humour.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 1. (ii) Choose a phrase from the extract which indicates a polite request.
Allow me to present.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 1. (iii) Choose the option which shows a ‘currant bun’. A. Image 1 B. Image 2 C. Image 3 D. Image 4
It is a small round bun with currants or raisins on top. Choose the image that shows a round baked bun studded with raisins.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 1. (iv) Complete the sentence with an appropriate reason. When the poet says, ‘Well!’, it expresses surprise. This was so because _________________.
because the man called a currant bun a rose and its smell was strange and funny, not like a real rose.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 2. You never heard in all your life Such a funny feeling sound. “My friend, why do you wear two hats Upon your feet?” I said. He turned the other way about, And hopped home on his head. (i) Choose the line from the extract which tells us that the sound was unique.
You never heard in all your life Such a funny feeling sound.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 2. (ii) Complete the sentence with an appropriate reason. The poet calls the funny man ‘my friend’ because _________________.
because the man was friendly and polite though funny, and the poet felt comfortable to ask him a question.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 2. (iii) What does the reaction of the funny man to the poet’s question tell us about him?
He is whimsical and does not give a logical answer; instead he turns and hops on his head, showing he enjoys being absurd and playful.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 2. (iv) Choose the correct option to complete the sentence. The last line of the extract makes the readers feel _________________. A. dreamy B. impatient C. worried D. cheerful
D. cheerful.
II Answer the following questions. 1. Which character trait of the funny man was most appealing to you? Why?
His politeness and playfulness are appealing because even while looking silly he remains kind and cheerful.
II Answer the following questions. 2. The funny man does unusual things in the poem. How does it affect the overall mood of the poem?
His unusual acts like shoe on head and hopping on head create a light-hearted, nonsensical and joyful mood that makes readers laugh.
II Answer the following questions. 3. What alternative title would you suggest for the poem? Give reason(s) for your choice.
The Topsy-Turvy Man, because everything he does is upside down and opposite, which is the central fun of the poem.
II Answer the following questions. 4. Why do you think the poet has included dialogues in the poem?
Dialogues make the poem lively, show interaction between poet and funny man, and involve readers as if they are watching the scene.
II Answer the following questions. 5. What does the poet wish to convey by highlighting the unusual behaviour of the funny man?
The poet shows that humour lies in breaking normal rules and that laughter and imagination make life joyful.
Let us learn
I Match the phrasal verbs in Column 1 with their correct meaning in Column 2. Column 1 Column 2 1. take up (i) to understand or comprehend something 2. take after (ii) to assume control or responsibility for something 3. take in (iii) to begin to study, practice, or do something 4. take over (iv) to become successful or popular quickly 5. take off (v) to resemble or look similar to (usually a family member)
1. take up - (iii) to begin to study, practice, or do something. 2. take after - (v) to resemble or look similar to. 3. take in - (i) to understand or comprehend something. 4. take over - (ii) to assume control or responsibility for something. 5. take off - (iv) to become successful or popular quickly.
Now, fill in the blanks with suitable phrasal verbs from the table given in I. You may change the tense of the verb, if required. 1. The new technology is set to _________________ traditional methods of communication. 2. I tried hard to _________________ what the writer wanted to say but was unsuccessful. 3. Arjun decided to _________________ painting as a hobby. 4. The smartphone quickly _________________ the sales in the market. 5. Sheela _________________ her father; they have the same smile.
1. take over 2. take in 3. take up 4. took off 5. takes after.
II Match the verbs in Column 1 with any suitable adverbs or prepositions in Column 2. Write their meanings in Column 3. An example has been done for you. Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 1. look after, away, up, for, in, on, into, down, off, out look after: take care of, 2. run 3. put 4. break 5. call
2. run - run into (meet by chance), run out (finish). 3. put - put on (wear), put off (postpone). 4. break - break down (stop working), break up (end relationship). 5. call - call up (telephone), call off (cancel). Any suitable combination with correct meaning is acceptable.
Now, frame sentences of your own using any five phrasal verbs.
1. I look after my pet dog. 2. She put on her coat. 3. The car broke down on the highway. 4. Please call up your friend. 5. They run out of milk every week.
III Read the following words from the poem. walking, staggered, hopped The given words denote the different ways of walking. Arrange the words given in the box in increasing order of pace. sprint, trot, jog walk stagger hop
Slowest to fastest: stagger, walk, hop, jog, trot, sprint. Stagger is unsteady slowest, then walk, hop is jumping, jog is slow run, trot is faster, sprint is fastest.
Let us listen
I You will listen to a girl narrate a personal incident. As you listen, select the picture related to the narration. (Transcript for the teacher on pg. 88)
Select the picture that shows a girl with a plate in the bedroom and shoes in the kitchen, confused and then laughing, because she swapped the plate and shoes due to preoccupation.
II You will once again listen to the girl narrate a personal incident. As you listen, arrange the events in order of occurrence. 1. Ate lunch 2. Took off shoes 3. Put shoes in the room 4. Laughed at the mistake 5. Placed the plate in the room 6. Prepared for the presentation 7. Put the plate in the kitchen
Correct order: 6. Prepared for the presentation - 2. Took off shoes - 1. Ate lunch - 5. Placed the plate in the room - 3. Put shoes in the room (actually shoes in kitchen) - 4. Laughed at the mistake - 7. Put the plate in the kitchen (correction after realization). Sequence is preparation, remove shoes, eat, swap plate and shoes, laugh, correct.
Let us speak
Read the joke given below. A man is talking to God. The man says, “God, how long is a million years?” God replies, “For me, it’s about a minute.” The man asks, “How much is a million rupees?” God smiles and replies, “It’s less than a rupee for me.” The man quickly requests, “God, may I have a rupee?” God promptly says, “Wait a minute.” Work in pairs and take turns to tell the joke. Remember: Narrator’s voice – your own voice (speak in a matter-of-fact manner) Man’s voice – change to louder voice (speak with respect) God’s voice – deep voice (speak in a pleasant tone) Now, work in pairs to create a joke and tell it in front of the class.
Practice telling with voice modulation. Example new joke: Teacher: Why did the book go to hospital? Student: Why? Teacher: Because it had too many broken sentences. Deliver with pauses and expression.
Let us write
I A limerick is a nonsensical and funny verse consisting of five lines. Study the limerick given below and identify the rhyme scheme. 1. There was an Old Man with a beard, Who said, “It is just as I feared! Two Owls and a Hen, Four Larks and a Wren, Have all built their nests in my beard!” Edward Lear
Rhyme scheme is AABBA. Lines 1,2,5 rhyme (beard, feared, beard) and lines 3,4 rhyme (Hen, Wren).
II Follow the structure given below and write a limerick on your own. Line 1 : Introduction of a person or place Lines 2–4: A silly story Line 5 : An unexpected ending There was a child from _______ Who _________________________ ______________________________ She/He ______________________ ______________________________
There was a child from Jaipur town Who wore a teacup like a crown He danced with a cat Who wore a tall hat And slipped on a peel with a frown. Rhyme AABBA.
Let us explore
I In ancient Indian literature and mythology, there are several humorous or funny characters who play important roles in the stories. These characters often represent wit, humour and mischief while conveying deeper moral lessons. Here are a few well-known funny characters: Tenali Rama Birbal Mullah Nasruddin King Vikramaditya and Betal Take any story to read and share it with your classmates and the teacher.
Example: Tenali Rama story - How he tricked thieves by saying his treasure was in a well, making them draw water all night. It shows wit protects the wise.
II We can identify the acts of the funny man with certain modern-day activities that have playfulness, or unconventional behaviour. For example: Street Performers or Clowns: Like the funny man in the poem, modern-day street performers or clowns often dress in unusual ways and do unexpected acts to entertain people. Performance Art or Abstract Theatre: The funny man’s actions, such as singing a song and hopping on his head, resemble performance art or abstract theatre, where artists break conventional rules to create thought-provoking, often humorous experiences. Children’s Entertainment and Comedy Shows: The funny man’s behaviour is reflected in children’s shows to evoke laughter. In these examples, the common theme is humour, imagination, and defying logic or expectation, which is exactly what the funny man in the poem represents.
No specific question, this is information. Students can relate funny man's upside-down acts to clown shows and comedy acts they see on TV or fairs.
III Sukumar Ray, an Indian poet and illustrator, wrote poems in a similar style in his book Abol Tabol. You may also share a similar poem from your native language with your classmates and the teacher.
Students can share a nonsense poem from their language, like Sukumar Ray's HaJaBaRaLa, showing playful language.
IV Read and enjoy the poem. My Lost Pencil Oh pencil, dear pencil, where have you gone? I just had you here a minute at dawn! You were sharp and perfect, ready to write, Now you’re missing—gone from sight! Did you roll off my desk? Did you fall to the floor? Did someone swipe you for sure? It’s always the same, I’ve lost fifty this year, By the end of the month, they just disappear! Next time, I’ll tie you with tape or a string, Because losing my pencils is a real thing.
This poem is humorous about losing pencils frequently and planning to tie it to avoid losing, showing relatable student experience.
Let us do these activities before we read.
I Work in pairs and discuss. 1. What does ‘Athithi Devo Bhava’ mean? 2. Why is it important to be polite to guests?
1. Athithi Devo Bhava means Guest is God, we should respect guests. 2. Politeness makes guests feel welcome, builds friendship and good reputation.
II Choose the statements that display polite behaviour when you have guests at home. 1. Offer the guests a glass of water. 2. Enquire about the well-being of the guests. 3. Ask the guests when they would leave. 4. Comment critically about the habits of guests. 5. Accompany the guests to the door when they leave.
Polite behaviours are 1, 2, and 5. Asking when they will leave and criticizing habits are rude.
III Sometimes you find that a few friends in class are rude while disagreeing with each other on certain issues. Work in groups. How would you deal with such a situation? Share at least three ways in which you can do this.
1. Remind them to listen without interrupting. 2. Ask them to use polite words like I disagree respectfully. 3. Encourage taking turns and finding a compromise.
Let us discuss
I Complete the table given below based on Scene I of the play. An example has been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher. Speaker Words of the Speaker Reason Mrs. Shaw The room looks cleaner now. Put that coat away in your bedroom. To instruct Mary to keep the room tidy Mary You’re always telling me to put things away. I’m not a child! Mrs. Shaw To highlight the importance of being kind as a way to ensure Mary says the appropriate things when guests arrive
Mary's line shows she feels nagged and wants independence. Mrs. Shaw's kind advice line is: You'll always be right if you're kind to people. Say things that will please them. Reason: To teach Mary that kindness ensures saying the right thing.
II Do you think Mary will be able to follow her mother’s advice successfully when Mrs. Harding and Mrs. Lee visit? Why or why not?
Probably not, because though she remembers words like Must you go? Can't you stay? she does not understand when to say what and speaks without thinking, so she will blunder.
Let us discuss
I Rectify the false statements given below from Scene II of the play. An example has been done for you. Share your answers with your classmates and the teacher. 1. Mrs. Harding states that they do not like London as it is not the same as Lanfield. Rectification: Mrs. Harding states that they like Lanfield very much even though it is not the same as London. 2. Mrs. Harding was pleased to know that Mary was familiar with her children. 3. Mrs. Shaw shared that she liked Mrs. Best as she read a lot of newspapers. 4. Mrs. Harding and Mrs. Shaw agree that wearing a blue dress with a red coat is unfashionable. 5. Mary shares that she finds the dog outside the window cute.
2. False - Mrs. Harding was not pleased and said I have no children, believe me, she was annoyed. 3. False - Mrs. Shaw said bankers have to read newspapers, and that she likes Mrs. Best as a nice woman, not because she reads. 4. False - Mrs. Shaw quickly said she likes blue dresses and red coats to cover Mary's rudeness, not agreeing it is unfashionable. 5. False - Mary said the dog looks very dirty and she doesn't like dogs, she questioned why people keep such dirty dogs.
Let us think and reflect
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 1. Mary : What are you going to talk about? Mrs. Shaw : I don’t know. All kinds of things. One day you’ll have to go to some of these houses yourself and talk to the people there. Mary : I can talk now. I’ve been able to talk for a long time. Mrs. Shaw : Yes, that’s true. You always talk too much. But does anyone want to hear the things that you say? Mary : I can talk very well when I like. I’ll stay with you today and talk to them when they come. Mrs. Shaw : Oh, I don’t think so. You can go out for a walk. It will be better if you do that. (i) What does Mrs. Shaw imply when she says, “One day you’ll have to go to some of these houses yourself and talk to the people there”? A. She believes Mary should start learning about hosting guests then. B. She thinks Mary is ready to visit these houses independently. C. She wants Mary to develop social skills for the future. D. She hopes Mary will avoid these social interactions entirely.
C. She wants Mary to develop social skills for the future.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 1. (ii) Complete the following sentence with the correct option from the brackets. Mrs. Shaw and Mary are discussing how to _____________________. (have a polite conversation/ get to know people better)
have a polite conversation.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 1. (iii) Why did Mary insist on staying with her mother when the guests arrived?
Mary was confident she could talk very well and wanted to prove she could say the right things and show her mother she is grown up.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 1. (iv) Match the following character traits to the characters in the extract: A. eager B. inexperienced C. cautious Mary Mrs. Shaw
Mary - eager and inexperienced. Mrs. Shaw - cautious.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 2. Mary : I saw Mrs. Cotter this afternoon. I met her in the street. No one sees her in the morning because she always stays in bed then. And she’s always asking the doctor to go to see her. I can’t understand women who stay in bed in the morning. And why must she always ask for the doctor? I’ve never been to a doctor in my life. Mrs. Harding : I stay in bed in the morning myself. (i) Complete the following sentence suitably. Mary could spot Mrs. Cotter in the street because _________.
because she met her in the afternoon; Mrs. Cotter is not seen in the morning as she stays in bed.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 2. (ii) What does Mary’s comment about Mrs. Cotter staying in bed and calling the doctor suggest about her understanding? A. She is worried about why Mrs. Cotter stays in bed all morning. B. She is unable to understand why people need medical help. C. She thinks Mrs. Cotter is scared and lonely for staying in bed. D. She believes Mrs. Cotter is right to rest and take care of herself.
B. She is unable to understand why people need medical help.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 2. (iii) How can we say that Mary enjoyed good health?
She says I've never been to a doctor in my life, showing she has been healthy and never needed medical attention.
I Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 2. (iv) Identify whether the following statement is true or false. Mary might have unintentionally offended Mrs. Harding.
True. Her general criticism of staying in bed and calling the doctor happened to apply to Mrs. Harding who does both.
II Answer the following questions. 1. What does Mary’s comment about Mr. Best’s routine and profession reveal about her viewpoint on bankers and their way of life?
She thinks bankers live a dull mechanical life commuting by train, reading only newspapers, not books, and lacking imagination.
II Answer the following questions. 2. What can we infer about Mary’s understanding of polite conversation based on her interactions with the guests?
She does not understand tact. She speaks bluntly about people's clothes, habits and pets without thinking, and misapplies her mother's advice.
II Answer the following questions. 3. What do you think the repeated stage direction ‘no one speaks’ indicates about the atmosphere in the room when Mary speaks?
It shows awkward silence and embarrassment after Mary's blunders, guests and mother are uncomfortable and do not know how to respond.
II Answer the following questions. 4. How does Mary’s attitude towards the guests change throughout the play?
Initially eager and overconfident, then she keeps making offensive remarks without realizing, and finally is embarrassed and confused, saying must you stay can't you go incorrectly.
II Answer the following questions. 5. What do Mrs. Harding’s and Mrs. Lee’s responses to Mary’s blunders during their visit reveal about their characters?
They remain polite but show mild irritation, correcting Mary gently about their personal situations, and finally decide to leave early, showing patience and dignity.
II Answer the following questions. 6. In what way does the play show the importance of knowing how to engage in polite conversation?
It shows that knowing when to speak, what to say kindly, and how to keep conversation pleasant matters. Mary's lack of it spoils the social visit and embarrasses her mother.
Let us learn
I Study the following words taken from the text. humorous, hilariously, coming, beautiful The given words are made by adding word endings like -ous, -ly, -ing, and -ful to the root words humour, hilarious, come, and beauty. Such word endings are called suffixes. • humour + -ous • hilarious + -ly • come + -ing • beauty + -ful Now, divide the following words from the text as root words and suffixes. Check your answer with the teacher. gladly banker guidance quietly walking
glad + ly, bank + er, guide + ance, quiet + ly, walk + ing.
1. Study the words in Column 1. Match the suffixes in Column 2 with their meanings or purpose in Column 3. Write a few examples for each in Column 4. Share your answers with the teacher. Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4 Biology (i) -logy A. change to adverb Sociology tolerance (ii) -ance B. change to plural stopped (iii) -ed C. a study of backward (iv) -ward D. change to superlative courageous (v) -ous E. change to past tense quietly (vi) -ly F. change to a noun toughest (vii) -est G. in a certain direction tomatoes (viii) -es H. change to adjective
Biology - -logy - C a study of e.g. geology. tolerance - -ance - F change to noun. stopped - -ed - E past tense. backward - -ward - G in a certain direction. courageous - -ous - H change to adjective. quietly - -ly - A change to adverb. toughest - -est - D change to superlative. tomatoes - -es - B change to plural.
2. Fill in the blanks using words given in the brackets by adding suitable suffixes. To communicate (i) ___________ (effective), choose your words and topics (ii) ___________ (wise). Avoid (iii) ___________ (discuss) things you don’t know much about or that could upset someone. Remember to be (iv) ___________ (respect) towards others, including yourself, and express your (v) ___________ (appreciate). Finally, always be (vi) ___________ (response) by replying promptly to communicate.
(i) effectively (ii) wisely (iii) discussing (iv) respectful (v) appreciation (vi) responsive.
II Read the highlighted words in the following sentences from the text. • But does anyone want to hear the things that you say? • I can’t tell you everything. Select the correct answer. Is there a difference in the meanings of ‘say’ and ‘tell’? (Yes/ No) • ‘Say’ focuses on the message and does not always require a listener. • ‘Tell’ focuses on who receives the message and always needs a listener. 1. Fill in the blanks with suitable words from the sets of words given in the box below. Make changes in the verb forms (tense), if necessary. • fetch : go somewhere to get something and bring it back bring : take something with you to the place you are going • see : something that we view, whether or not we pay attention look : focus your eyes in a certain direction by paying attention • live : permanent place of residence stay : temporary presence in a location as a guest or visitor • study : spend time learning something as part of formal education learn : gain knowledge or skill through study or experience • speak : express thoughts or ideas aloud, often in formal situations talk : engage in informal conversation with someone • hear : perceive sounds unintentionally through the ears listen : pay attention to sounds or speech intentionally (i) I _________ at the photo, but I didn’t _________ anyone familiar. (ii) I’d better go and _________ my mother from the station, and then _________ her home. (iii) I need to _________ for my mathematics exam this weekend, so I hope to _________ new concepts along the way. (iv) I can _________ the music from my neighbour’s house, but I need to _________ to it carefully to understand the lyrics. (v) “Could I _________ to Mrs. Kalpana, who is going to _________ to us about gardening,” said Ritu. (vi) I _________ in a small town, but I often _________ with my relatives in the city.
(i) looked, see (ii) fetch, bring (iii) study, learn (iv) hear, listen (v) speak, talk (vi) live, stay.
III Read the following sentences from the text and underline the verbs. • They lived in London before. • I met her in a shop and asked her to come. As you know, the verbs you have underlined are in simple past tense. (actions that happened in the past or distant past) Read the following sentence from the text and underline the verb. She has been staying with them for a while. The verb you have underlined is in present perfect continuous tense. 1. Fill in the blanks using the verbs given in brackets in present continuous or present perfect continuous tense. The students (i) ______________ (organise) a play and setting up the stage. They (ii) ______________ (prepare) for weeks to make everything perfect. The performers (iii) ______________ (rehearse) every day, and their excitement (iv) ______________ (grow). The sound in-charge (v) ______________ (test) the microphones to check the sound quality. Everyone (vi) ______________ (work) hard, and now the place (vii) ______________ (buzz) with energy and excitement.
(i) are organising (ii) have been preparing (iii) have been rehearsing (iv) is growing (v) is testing (vi) has been working (vii) is buzzing.
IV Read the explanation about the kinds of sentences given in the table below. Kinds of Sentences Function Punctuation Examples from the text Declarative sentences to state or convey information end with a full stop (.) There’s always something to say. Interrogative sentences to ask questions end with a question mark (?) What shall I do when they want to go? Exclamatory sentences to express strong feelings or emotions end with an exclamatory mark (!) What beautiful children you have, Mrs. Harding! Imperative sentences to give order, command or request end with a full stop (.) Put that coat away in your bedroom. 1. Identify the kinds of sentences and punctuate them appropriately. (i) the meeting starts at 10.00 a.m. in the conference room (ii) what an exciting adventure it was (iii) how did you solve the problem so quickly (iv) what is the weather forecast today (v) how beautiful is the rainbow (vi) clean up your room before dinner (vii) the children are planning a surprise party for their mom (viii) turn off the music
(i) The meeting starts at 10.00 a.m. in the conference room. - Declarative (ii) What an exciting adventure it was! - Exclamatory (iii) How did you solve the problem so quickly? - Interrogative (iv) What is the weather forecast today? - Interrogative (v) How beautiful is the rainbow! - Exclamatory (vi) Clean up your room before dinner. - Imperative (vii) The children are planning a surprise party for their mom. - Declarative (viii) Turn off the music. - Imperative.
Let us listen
I Mrs. Shaw wanted Mary to learn to say the right thing. You will listen to a conversation between a mother and her son about basic manners. As you listen, fill in the blanks given below by selecting the correct option. (Transcript for the teacher on pg. 89 ) 1. How did the son behave in the grocery queue? (i) strangely (ii) impatiently (iii) politely 2. The mother finally refers to her son as a __________________. (i) polite young man (ii) responsible son (iii) grateful person
1. (ii) impatiently 2. (i) polite young man.
II You will once again listen to the conversation. As you listen, select four true statements from 1– 7 given below. 1. The mother uses the grocery store incident as an opportunity to teach her son about patience and fairness. 2. The son recognises the value of apologising and understands that it shows he notices others. 3. The son is gradually learning the importance of polite words and actions from his mother’s guidance. 4. The mother discourages her son from speaking softly in public, suggesting that people should adjust to his voice level. 5. The son feels that covering his mouth when coughing is only important when he’s at home. 6. The son receives all advice readily while understanding its importance. 7. The mother uses praise to support the polite behaviours she wants her son to continue practising.
True statements are 1, 2, 3, and 7. Statements 4, 5, 6 are false.
Let us speak
I Speak the given declarative sentence aloud. I saw Mrs. Cotter this afternoon. • Use falling intonation towards end of the sentence as declarative sentences usually have falling intonation. • Stress the words ‘Mrs. Cotter’.
Say with falling tone at the end and emphasize Mrs. Cotter to show who was seen.
II Speak the following declarative sentences with falling intonation and stress the highlighted words. 1. The room looks cleaner now. 2. You always talk too much. 3. You leave your clothes all over the house.
Speak each with falling intonation and stress on cleaner, always, all over to convey emphasis.
III Work in pairs and speak the following sentences 1–5 aloud, as Mary. Apply stress and falling intonation. Match each of the sentences to the meaning they convey in (i)–(v). Sentences 1. I didn’t hurt anyone today. 2. I didn’t hurt anyone today. 3. I didn’t hurt anyone today. 4. I didn’t hurt anyone today. 5. I didn’t hurt anyone today. Meaning conveyed (i) I might have done other things but did not hurt anyone. (ii) I might cause hurt usually, but not anyone on this day. (iii) The action of hurting anyone did not occur. (iv) I, specifically, did not hurt anyone, possibly implying someone else might have. (v) I may have spoken a lot many things but not a single person was hurt.
1. I didn't hurt anyone today with stress on I = (iv). 2. Stress on didn't = (iii). 3. Stress on hurt = (i). 4. Stress on anyone = (v). 5. Stress on today = (ii). Stress changes meaning.
IV Now, speak the given declarative sentence with rising intonation towards the end of sentence and stress the highlighted words. I saw Mrs. Cotter this afternoon.
With rising intonation it sounds like a question - Are you asking Did I see Mrs. Cotter? The rise makes it seem uncertain or questioning.
Let us write
Rewrite the play ‘Say the Right Thing’ as a short story, focusing on Mary’s interactions with her mother and the guests. • Ensure the story captures the main events, character emotions, and humorous moments effectively. • Use paragraphs to organise your story and include descriptive language to bring the characters and events to life. You may refer to the following hints: • Begin with an introduction: describe Mary and Mrs. Shaw, their relationship and the setting of the story. • Explain Mrs. Shaw’s instructions to Mary before the guests arrive and Mary’s confidence in handling the situation. • Narrate the events when Mrs. Harding and Mrs. Lee visit, highlighting Mary’s remarks and the guests’ reactions. • Include key moments of humour and awkwardness to maintain the tone of the play. • Conclude by commenting on how the visit ended and Mary’s impact on the situation.
Mary Shaw lives with her mother Mrs. Shaw in Lanfield. Mrs. Shaw wants to impress new neighbours Mrs. Harding and Mrs. Lee. She tells talkative Mary to be kind, make people talk, and when they leave say Must you go? Can't you stay? Mary confidently stays. But she blunders: says Mrs. Harding's children are beautiful when she has none, mocks Mr. Best the banker who is Mrs. Lee's brother, laughs at blue dress red coat which Mrs. Harding wears, criticizes staying in bed like Mrs. Harding and Mrs. Lee do, calls their dog dirty which is theirs, and praises shooting like Mr. Harding. Each time there is embarrassed silence. Finally when guests rise to leave, Mary says Oh must you stay? Can't you go? opposite of what was taught. The visit ends awkwardly and humourfully, showing Mary must learn tact.
Let us explore
I Work in groups. Enact your favourite part of the play. Points to remember: • Allot a specific role to each member in the group. For example: director, narrator, and characters • Include the actions and expressions as indicated in brackets in the play.
Students can enact Scene II where Mary offends guests, using expressions like not very pleased and quietly, showing comic timing.
II Find out how people greet guests who visit their homes in different languages. Share it with your classmates and the teacher.
Examples: Namaste in Hindi, Welcome in English, Swagatam in Sanskrit, Ahlan in Arabic, Bienvenue in French, Yokoso in Japanese.
III ‘Vasudhaiva Kuṭumbakaṁ’ is a Sanskrit phrase which means the world is one family. Vasudha means Earth; eva translates to ‘is thus’ and Kuṭumbakaṁ means ‘family’. The phrase originates from ancient Indian texts like the Maha Upanishad and the Hitopadesha. This saying highlights the interconnectedness of all people, suggesting that humanity is part of a single global family. It encourages unity, cooperation, and treating others with kindness and empathy, regardless of differences in nationality, race, or religion. The message is often used to promote global peace and mutual understanding among diverse cultures and nations. ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ was chosen as the theme for the G20 Summit which captured the essence of global unity, common bonds, and shared aspirations for a better future.
This phrase teaches that all humans are one family. Practicing it means being kind to all guests and people, like the lesson in the play extended globally.