Summary of 'Tea From Assam'
The story follows two boys, Pranjol and Rajvir, traveling by train through tea country in India. Rajvir is fascinated by the scenery and history of tea, sharing legends and facts about its origins and global popularity. Pranjol, from a tea plantation family, seems less impressed but reveals the local industry details. As they arrive at Pranjol's father's tea estate, Dhekiabari, Rajvir's enthusiasm remains while Pranjol reconnects with his familiar surroundings. The story ends with Rajvir eager to learn more about tea life on the estate.
In summary, the story captures the contrasting perspectives of two friends experiencing tea country, one with knowledge and excitement, the other with familiarity and practicality. It introduces the reader to the world of tea plantations and hints at future exploration of life on the estate.
Comprehension Questions(Extra)
- Where are Pranjol and Rajvir heading to on the train?
Pranjol and Rajvir are travelling to Assam, which is known for its tea plantations.
- According to Rajvir, how much tea is consumed worldwide daily?
Over eighty crore cups of tea are drunk every day throughout the world.
- How does Pranjol initially react to the scenery of tea bushes?
Pranjol, being from a plantation, isn't excited by the tea bushes; he finds them ordinary.
- What are two legends Rajvir mentions about the discovery of tea?
-One legend involves a Chinese emperor and leaves falling into his boiling water.
-Another legend talks about Buddhist ascetic Bodhidharma and tea plants growing from his eyelids.
- Where and when was tea first consumed according to the text?
Tea was first drunk in China as far back as 2700 B.C.
- What name is given to the type of tea being harvested when they arrive at the estate?
The type of tea being harvested is the second-flush tea, which occurs from May to July and yields the best quality.
- Why does Pranjol's father say Rajvir has done his homework?
Pranjol's father says Rajvir has done his homework because he demonstrates knowledge about tea history and production.
- What does Pranjol's father do for a living?
Pranjol's father is the manager of the Dhekiabari Tea Estate.
- Describe the appearance of the Dhekiabari Tea Estate.
The Dhekiabari Tea Estate is described as vast, with acre upon acre of neatly pruned tea bushes, gravel roads, and groups of tea-pluckers working among the plants.
- What does Rajvir hope to achieve during his visit?
Rajvir hopes to learn much more about tea, possibly beyond what he has already read, during his stay at the tea estate.
Thinking About The Language
1. Look at these words: upkeep, downpour, undergo, dropout, walk-in. They are built up from a verb (keep, pour, go, drop, walk) and an adverb or a particle (up, down, under, out, in). Use these words appropriately in the sentences below. You may consult a dictionary.
(i) A heavy down-pour has been forecast due to low pressure in the Bay of Bengal.
(ii) Rakesh will under-go major surgery tomorrow morning.
(iii) My brother is responsible for the up-keep of our family property.
(iv) The drop-out rate for this accountancy course is very high.
(v) She went to the Enterprise Company to attend a walk-in interview.
2. Now fill in the blanks in the sentences given below by combining the verb given in brackets with one of the words from the box as appropriate.
over - by - through - out - up - down
(i) The Army attempted unsuccessfully to overthrow the Government. (throw)
(ii) Scientists are on the brink of a major breakthrough in cancer research. (break)
(iii) The State Government plans to build an overpass for Bhubaneswar to speed up traffic on the main highway. (pass)
(iv) Gautama’s outlook on life changed when he realised that the world is full of sorrow. (look)
(v) Rakesh seemed unusually downcast after the game. (cast)
