What forces conspire to keep the workers in the bangle industry of Firozabad in poverty?

Franz thinks, “Will they make them sing in German, even the pigeons?” What could this mean?
(There could be more than one answer.)

The people in this story suddenly realise how precious their language is to them. What shows you this? Why does this happen?

Is Saheb happy working at the tea-stall? Explain.

Would you agree that promises made to poor children are rarely kept? Why do you think this happens in the incidents narrated in the text?

How is Mukesh’s attitude to his situation different from that of his family?

What was Franz expected to be prepared with for school that day?

How do we know that ordinary people too contributed to the freedom movement?

Mention the hazards of working in the glass bangles industry.

How was Gandhi able to influence lawyers? Give instances.

How did the episode change the plight of the peasants?

How does Eco find the time to write so much?

What did Franz notice that was unusual about the school that day?

What caused the lack of communication between the Englishman and the people at Gemini Studios?

Would you agree that promises made to poor children are rarely kept? Why do you think this happens in the incidents narrated in the text?

What is the “misadventure” that William Douglas speaks about?

Did the people at Gemini Studios have any particular political affiliations?

The author has used gentle humour to point out human foibles. Pick out instances of this to show how this serves to make the piece interesting.

Why is Rajkumar Shukla described as being ‘resolute’?

How would you describe the character and temperament of Sophie’s father?

Subbu is described as a many-sided genius. List four of his special abilities.