Bholi by K.A. Abbas: Ultimate Guide to Board Exams

Prepare effectively for your Class 10 English board exams with our comprehensive guide to Bholi by K.A. Abbas. This post covers everything: a detailed summary, word meanings, character sketch, in-depth analysis, and answers to textbook questions. You’ll also find important themes, MCQs, extract-based questions, and summaries in Hindi and Urdu. Whether you’re revising Chapter 8 of Footprints Without Feet or looking for NCERT solutions, this guide has you covered!

Summary of Bholi by K.A. Abbas

The story Bholi by K.A. Abbas is about a young girl named Bholi, whose real name is Sulekha. Born into a conservative family, she faces challenges from an early age. As a child, Bholi was different from her siblings. She suffered from smallpox, leaving scars on her face, and a speech impairment made her stammer. These issues caused her to be ridiculed and neglected, earning her the nickname “Bholi,” meaning simpleton.

Bholi’s life takes a turn when she is sent to school, reluctantly, by her parents. Initially hesitant, she soon finds a kind and encouraging teacher who helps her gain confidence and discover her worth. Education transforms Bholi, giving her the courage to stand up for herself.

When Bholi grows up, her parents arrange her marriage with a greedy and much older man. During the wedding, the groom demands a dowry despite earlier agreements. To everyone’s surprise, Bholi refuses to marry him, choosing her dignity over societal pressure. She declares her intent to dedicate her life to teaching and helping others, proving the transformative power of education and self-respect.

The story highlights the importance of education and self-reliance, advocating for gender equality and the courage to challenge outdated social norms.

Word Meaning of Bholi

List of difficult words from the story Bholi by K.A. Abbas, along with their meanings:

Word	Meaning
Simpleton	A person who is considered simple-minded or lacking in intelligence
Stammer	Speak with pauses and repetitions due to a speech impediment
Pockmarks	Scars or marks left on the skin after recovering from smallpox
Prosperous	Wealthy or financially well-off
Grocer	A person who sells food and household goods
Compulsion	A strong force or obligation to do something
Coward	A person who lacks courage or is easily frightened
Contempt	The feeling of disapproval or disrespect
Envious	Feeling or showing jealousy
Scornfully	In a way that shows contempt or disdain
Encouragement	Support or motivation given to someone
Dignity	Self-respect and honour
Dowry	Money or property given by the bride’s family to the groom during marriage
Maimed	Physically injured or disabled
Resolutely	In a determined and unwavering manner
Tame	Domesticated or submissive
Admonished	Warned or reprimanded firmly

Character Sketch of Bholi

Bholi, the protagonist of the story Bholi by K.A. Abbas, is a remarkable character who evolves from a timid and neglected child to a confident and self-respecting young woman.

Childhood Struggles:
Bholi, whose real name is Sulekha, was born into a conservative family. She suffered from smallpox in her early childhood, leaving her face scarred. Additionally, she had a speech impediment, which caused her to stammer. These challenges made her the target of ridicule in her family and society. She was considered a burden and was nicknamed “Bholi,” meaning a simpleton.

Timid and Neglected:
Bholi was a shy and nervous girl who lacked confidence. Her family treated her with indifference, focusing more on her siblings. Her parents considered her unworthy of love and care, and she grew up believing she had no value.

Transformation through Education:
Bholi’s life changed when she started attending school. Initially reluctant, she found a caring teacher who encouraged her to believe in herself. Education opened her mind and helped her realise her self-worth. Over time, Bholi overcame her fears and stammer, becoming a confident individual.

Courage and Self-Respect:
As an adult, Bholi displayed immense courage when her family arranged her marriage to a greedy and older man who demanded dowry. Refusing to compromise her dignity, Bholi stood up against the injustice and called off the marriage. She chose to stay unmarried and dedicate her life to teaching, showing that she valued her self-respect above societal norms.

Symbol of Empowerment:
Bholi represents the transformative power of education and the importance of self-reliance. Her journey is an inspiring example of how courage and determination can help one rise above adversity.

Analysis of the Story Bholi by K.A. Abbas

The story Bholi is a poignant tale that addresses social issues such as gender inequality, dowry, and the transformative power of education. Through the life of Bholi, K.A. Abbas highlights the struggles of women in a patriarchal society and shows how education can empower individuals to break free from traditional constraints.

Theme of Education and Empowerment

Education is a central theme in the story. Bholi, initially timid and neglected, finds her voice and self-confidence through schooling. Her teacher’s encouragement becomes the turning point of her life, demonstrating how education can uplift even the most disadvantaged individuals. Bholi’s eventual decision to stand up for her dignity and reject an unjust marriage illustrates the liberating power of knowledge.

Critique of Social Norms

The story critiques the rigid social norms prevalent in traditional Indian society. Bholi’s parents see her as a burden due to her physical appearance and speech defect. Her arranged marriage to an older, greedy man reflects the practice of treating women as commodities. Bholi’s refusal to accept this reflects a challenge to these outdated traditions.

Role of Women in Society

Bholi emphasises the importance of self-respect and individuality, especially for women. Bholi’s transformation into a confident woman who takes control of her destiny highlights the need for women to assert their rights and stand against societal pressures. Her decision to dedicate her life to teaching symbolises her desire to empower others like herself.

Symbolism

Bholi’s scars and speech impediment symbolise the physical and emotional burdens society imposes on individuals who are deemed “different.” Her journey from a neglected child to an empowered woman mirrors the potential for change when one is given opportunities and support.

Moral Message

The story conveys a strong moral message: self-respect is more important than societal approval. It also underscores the significance of education as a tool for breaking free from discrimination and injustice.

READ AND FIND OUT (Question Answer of Bholi)

Why is Bholi’s father worried about her?

Bholi’s father, Ramlal, is worried about her because she is not like his other children. She has pockmarks on her face due to smallpox and stammers while speaking. He fears that no one will marry her, and she will remain a burden on the family.

For what unusual reasons is Bholi sent to school?

Bholi is sent to school not to get an education but because the Tehsildar orders Ramlal to set an example for the village by sending at least one of his daughters to school. Ramlal decides to send Bholi, thinking no one would marry her anyway, and school might help lessen the family’s burden.

Does Bholi enjoy her first day at school?

Yes, Bholi enjoys her first day at school. Though initially scared, she feels happy when she sees the colourful pictures in her classroom and receives kindness from her teacher.

Does she find her teacher different from the people at home?

Yes, Bholi finds her teacher very different from the people at home. While her family neglects her and mocks her, the teacher is kind, encouraging, and patient. She gives Bholi hope and helps her build confidence.

Why do Bholi’s parents accept Bishamber’s marriage proposal?

Bholi’s parents accept Bishamber’s proposal because he is wealthy and does not care about Bholi’s looks or stammering. They believe this is the best match they can find for her, as they fear she will not get another proposal.

Why does the marriage not take place?

The marriage does not take place because Bishamber demands a dowry of five thousand rupees at the last moment, despite earlier agreeing to marry Bholi without any dowry. Bholi refuses to marry him, standing up for her dignity and rejecting the unfair demand.

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THINK ABOUT IT

1. Bholi had many apprehensions about going to school. What made her feel that she was going to a better place than her home?

Bholi was initially apprehensive about going to school because she was unsure of what to expect. However, when she reached the school, she saw colourful walls and pictures of animals and birds, which she found fascinating. Her teacher’s kindness and encouragement made her feel welcomed and valued, unlike at home, where she was often ridiculed and ignored.

2. How did Bholi’s teacher play an important role in changing the course of her life?

Bholi’s teacher treated her with kindness and patience, unlike anyone else in her life. She encouraged Bholi to speak without fear, boosted her confidence, and motivated her to believe in herself. This nurturing guidance transformed Bholi into a self-assured and independent individual, enabling her to stand up for her rights and dignity later in life.

3. Why did Bholi at first agree to an unequal match? Why did she later reject the marriage? What does this tell us about her?

Bholi agreed to the unequal match because she wanted to ease her parents’ worries about her marriage. However, when Bishamber demanded dowry, she rejected the marriage, choosing self-respect over societal approval. This shows her inner strength, transformation, and awareness of her worth.

4. Bholi’s real name is Sulekha. We are told this right at the beginning. But only in the last but one paragraph of the story is Bholi called Sulekha again. Why do you think she is called Sulekha at that point in the story?

Bholi is called Sulekha at the end of the story to signify her transformation from a timid, neglected girl to a confident and self-respecting woman. The name Sulekha, meaning “a person with good handwriting,” symbolises her inner beauty and strength, which she discovers through education and self-awareness.

5. Bholi’s story must have moved you. Do you think girl children are not treated at par with boys?

Yes, the story highlights how girl children are often treated unequally. They are considered burdens, denied opportunities, and subjected to unfair practices like dowry. However, initiatives like the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme are efforts to change this mindset and ensure girls are educated and empowered.

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TALK ABOUT IT

1. Bholi’s teacher helped her overcome social barriers by encouraging and motivating her. How do you think you can contribute towards changing the social attitudes illustrated in this story?

We can contribute by raising awareness about the importance of education for girls, encouraging them to pursue their dreams, and standing against practices like dowry. Supporting equal opportunities for boys and girls and challenging societal stereotypes can help create a more inclusive society.

2. Should girls be aware of their rights, and assert them? Should girls and boys have the same rights, duties, and privileges?

Yes, girls should be aware of their rights and assert them. Boys and girls should have equal rights, duties, and privileges. Unfortunately, society often treats them differently, such as restricting girls’ education or giving boys more freedom. Promoting gender equality through education and awareness is crucial for societal progress.

3. Do you think the characters in the story were speaking to each other in English? If not, in which language were they speaking?

No, the characters in the story were not speaking English. Based on the names of the characters and the setting, they were likely speaking in Hindi or a regional Indian language. Words like “Tehsildar” and “Ramlal” indicate this.

Theme of Bholi by K.A. Abbas

The story Bholi by K.A. Abbas explores several important themes, such as:

1. The Importance of Education

Education plays a transformative role in Bholi’s life. It empowers her to gain confidence, recognise her worth, and stand up for her rights. The story highlights how education can be a tool for social and personal empowerment, especially for women.

2. Gender Inequality and Social Injustice

The story reflects the discrimination faced by girls in a patriarchal society. Bholi is neglected by her family because of her appearance and speech defect. Her parents see her as a burden and agree to marry her off to an unequal match, demonstrating how societal norms undervalue girls.

3. Dowry and Its Evils

The story critiques the practice of dowry, which dehumanises women and commodifies marriage. Bishamber’s last-minute demand for dowry and Bholi’s rejection of him signify her refusal to conform to this unjust practice.

4. Self-Respect and Empowerment

Bholi’s transformation from a timid, neglected girl to a confident woman underscores the importance of self-respect. Her decision to reject Bishamber shows her growth and her resolve to stand against injustice.

5. Parental Attitudes and Their Impact

The story sheds light on the damaging impact of neglectful and discriminatory parenting. Bholi’s parents fail to nurture her, which affects her confidence. However, the story also shows how the support of a teacher or mentor can counteract such neglect and help individuals thrive.

Through these themes, Bholi conveys a powerful message about the need for education, gender equality, and the courage to stand up for one’s rights.

MCQs on Bholi by K.A. Abbas

Objective Questions

1. What was Bholi’s real name?
   a) Sudha
   b) Sulekha
   c) Sarita
   d) Sunita
2. Why was Bholi considered a ‘simpleton’?
   a) She was very shy.
   b) She stammered and was not intelligent.
   c) She refused to go to school.
   d) She was physically weak.
3. What caused the pockmarks on Bholi’s face?
   a) An accident
   b) Chickenpox
   c) Burns
   d) Allergy
4. How did Bholi’s family treat her?
   a) They treated her equally.
   b) They gave her special attention.
   c) They ignored and neglected her.
   d) They celebrated her uniqueness.
5. Why was Bholi sent to school?
   a) Her parents wanted her to be educated.
   b) The Tehsildar ordered Ramlal to send one daughter to school.
   c) Her siblings encouraged her.
   d) She wanted to study herself.
6. How did Bholi feel on her first day of school?
   a) Excited and confident
   b) Anxious and hesitant
   c) Happy and talkative
   d) Reluctant but comfortable
7. How did Bholi’s teacher make her feel confident?
   a) By giving her a prize
   b) By scolding her
   c) By treating her kindly and encouraging her to speak without fear
   d) By asking her to study harder
8. What was the profession of Bishamber Nath, Bholi’s suitor?
   a) A schoolteacher
   b) A grocer
   c) A farmer
   d) A lawyer
9. What demand did Bishamber make before the wedding?
   a) A gold necklace
   b) ₹5,000 as dowry
   c) A new house
   d) A horse cart
10. Why did Bholi reject Bishamber’s marriage proposal?
    a) She realised her self-worth and refused to marry a greedy man.
    b) She was in love with someone else.
    c) She wanted to stay with her parents.
    d) She wanted to become a teacher first.
11. How did Bholi surprise her family at the wedding?
    a) By running away
    b) By speaking confidently and rejecting Bishamber
    c) By agreeing to marry him
    d) By demanding more dowry
12. Who was Bholi’s strongest supporter in her transformation?
    a) Her teacher
    b) Her mother
    c) Her siblings
    d) Bishamber
13. What did Bholi decide to do instead of marrying Bishamber?
    a) Start her own business
    b) Dedicate her life to teaching in the village school
    c) Get married to someone else
    d) Leave her family
14. Why is Bholi called Sulekha at the end of the story?
    a) To show her identity as an empowered woman
    b) Because her father changed her name
    c) As a sign of respect from her teacher
    d) Because Bishamber called her that
15. What is the main message of the story?
    a) Girls should be married off as soon as possible.
    b) Education and self-respect can change lives.
    c) Dowry is necessary for marriage.
    d) Family is always supportive.

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Answer Key

1. b) Sulekha
2. b) She stammered and was not intelligent.
3. b) Chickenpox
4. c) They ignored and neglected her.
5. b) The Tehsildar ordered Ramlal to send one daughter to school.
6. b) Anxious and hesitant
7. c) By treating her kindly and encouraging her to speak without fear
8. b) A grocer
9. b) ₹5,000 as dowry
10. a) She realised her self-worth and refused to marry a greedy man.
11. b) By speaking confidently and rejecting Bishamber
12. a) Her teacher
13. b) Dedicate her life to teaching in the village school
14. a) To show her identity as an empowered woman
15. b) Education and self-respect can change lives.

Extract-Based MCQs from Bholi by K.A. Abbas

(Answer keys are given at the end.)

Extract I:

“Bholi was a harmless dumb cow. She was seven years old and could not speak properly. At birth, she was fair and pretty. But when she was just two years old, she had an attack of smallpox which left her face permanently disfigured with deep pockmarks. Little Bholi was ignored and neglected by her family.”

Questions:

1. Why was Bholi called a ‘dumb cow’?
   a) Because she loved animals
   b) Because she could not speak properly
   c) Because she was unintelligent
   d) Because she was kind and harmless
2. What was the reason for the disfigurement of Bholi’s face?
   a) An accident
   b) Smallpox
   c) A birth defect
   d) A fire incident
3. How did Bholi’s family treat her?
   a) With care and attention
   b) With neglect and indifference
   c) With love and compassion
   d) With fear and anger

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Extract II:

“She was sent to school not because they thought she would learn but because they believed that in case the Tehsildar came to inquire, Ramlal would not be humiliated by having neglected his duty. She was lucky to have such a kind teacher who helped her gain confidence and develop self-respect.”

Questions:
4. Why was Bholi sent to school?
a) To help her become independent
b) To avoid humiliation from the Tehsildar
c) To ensure she gets married
d) To make her educated

5. What kind of teacher did Bholi have?
   a) Harsh and strict
   b) Kind and understanding
   c) Negligent and indifferent
   d) Careless and uninterested
6. What did the teacher help Bholi achieve?
   a) Wealth and power
   b) Confidence and self-respect
   c) Good health and beauty
   d) Fearlessness and arrogance

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Extract III:

“Bholi was fascinated by the colourful pictures in the schoolbook. For the first time in her life, she felt as if she could hope for a better future. The soft and soothing voice of her teacher made her feel cared for and respected.”

Questions:
7. What fascinated Bholi about the schoolbook?
a) The difficult lessons
b) The colourful pictures
c) The teacher’s handwriting
d) The neat pages

8. How did the teacher’s voice affect Bholi?
   a) It made her feel respected and valued.
   b) It made her fearful.
   c) It annoyed her.
   d) It distracted her from learning.
9. What emotion did Bholi experience for the first time in her life?
   a) Fear
   b) Happiness
   c) Hope
   d) Confidence

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Extract IV:

“‘Pitaji,’ said Bholi in a clear voice, ‘I will not marry this man.’ Bishamber raised the garland to place it around her neck, but Bholi struck it down with her hand. ‘Have you no shame? You want to marry me for five thousand rupees? Take your money and go!’”

Questions:
10. Why did Bholi refuse to marry Bishamber?
a) He was too old.
b) He demanded dowry.
c) He was rude to her parents.
d) He insulted her teacher.

11. What quality of Bholi is revealed in this extract?
    a) Her greediness
    b) Her courage and self-respect
    c) Her hesitation and fear
    d) Her kindness and gentleness
12. What does this act signify in the context of the story?
    a) Bholi’s rejection of social norms and injustice
    b) Her acceptance of marriage as her duty
    c) Her fear of losing her parents’ support
    d) Her regret for going to school

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Answer Key:

1. b) Because she could not speak properly
2. b) Smallpox
3. b) With neglect and indifference
4. b) To avoid humiliation from the Tehsildar
5. b) Kind and understanding
6. b) Confidence and self-respect
7. b) The colourful pictures
8. a) It made her feel respected and valued.
9. c) Hope
10. b) He demanded dowry
11. b) Her courage and self-respect
12. a) Bholi’s rejection of social norms and injustice

Summary of Bholi in Hindi

लेखक: ख़्वाजा अहमद अब्बास

यह कहानी बिसंबरपुर नामक गांव की एक लड़की ‘बोली’ के जीवन पर आधारित है। उसका असली नाम ‘सुलेखा’ था। बचपन में उसे चेचक हो गया था, जिससे उसके चेहरे पर गहरे दाग़ रह गए। इसके अलावा, वह बोलने में भी कठिनाई महसूस करती थी। इन कारणों से उसके माता-पिता और अन्य लोग उसे महत्व नहीं देते थे और अक्सर उसका मजाक उड़ाते थे।

बोली के पिता रामलाल गांव के नंबरदार थे। उनके छह बच्चे थे, जिनमें से बोली सबसे छोटी थी। जब बोली दो साल की थी, तो वह पलंग से गिर गई थी, जिससे उसके दिमाग़ में हल्का सा नुकसान हो गया। इस वजह से वह अन्य बच्चों की तरह सामान्य नहीं थी। उसकी शक्ल और धीमे दिमाग़ के कारण उसे परिवार में अनदेखा किया गया।

स्कूल भेजने का फैसला

एक दिन गांव के तहसीलदार ने रामलाल को अपनी बेटियों को स्कूल भेजने की सलाह दी। रामलाल की पत्नी ने पहले इसका विरोध किया, क्योंकि उस समय यह माना जाता था कि स्कूल जाने वाली लड़कियों की शादी नहीं होती। लेकिन बोली के माता-पिता ने फैसला किया कि उसे स्कूल भेज दिया जाए, क्योंकि उसकी शादी की संभावना कम थी।

पहले दिन स्कूल में, बोली डर और घबराहट से भरी हुई थी। लेकिन उसकी शिक्षिका ने उसे प्यार और प्रोत्साहन दिया। यह पहली बार था जब किसी ने उसे सम्मान और दुलार दिया। शिक्षिका ने न केवल उसे पढ़ाई में मदद की बल्कि उसके आत्मविश्वास को भी बढ़ाया।

बोली का बदलाव

धीरे-धीरे, शिक्षिका के मार्गदर्शन में बोली पढ़ाई में अच्छी होने लगी और उसका आत्मविश्वास बढ़ता गया। वह समझ गई कि शिक्षा से वह अपने जीवन को बदल सकती है।

शादी का प्रस्ताव और विरोध

जब बोली जवान हुई, तो उसके माता-पिता ने उसकी शादी के लिए बिशंबर नाम के एक धनी व्यक्ति का प्रस्ताव स्वीकार कर लिया। हालांकि, बिशंबर की उम्र काफ़ी ज़्यादा थी और उसने दहेज के रूप में पांच हज़ार रुपये की मांग की। शादी के दिन, जब बिशंबर ने दहेज के लिए बोली के परिवार का अपमान किया, तो बोली ने शादी से इनकार कर दिया।

उसने अपने पिता को दिलासा दिया कि वह उनकी सेवा करेगी और कभी शादी नहीं करेगी। इस घटना ने दिखाया कि बोली अब आत्मनिर्भर और साहसी बन चुकी थी।

निष्कर्ष

कहानी Bholi सामाजिक बुराइयों जैसे दहेज प्रथा और स्त्रियों की उपेक्षा पर तीखा प्रहार करती है। यह शिक्षा के महत्व और आत्मसम्मान के मूल्य को भी दर्शाती है। बोली ने अपनी मेहनत और साहस से यह साबित किया कि शिक्षा किसी के भी जीवन को बदल सकती है।

Summary of Bholi in Urdu

Important Questions from Bholi for Board Exam

1. Why was Sulekha nicknamed Bholi?

Sulekha was nicknamed Bholi because she was considered simple-minded and slow-witted due to a childhood injury and her inability to speak clearly. The nickname reflected her family’s view of her as an insignificant and unintelligent girl.

2. Describe Bholi’s early life and the incidents that contributed to her backwardness.

Bholi’s early life was marked by hardships. She suffered brain damage from a fall as a baby, leaving her mentally slower than her siblings. A bout of smallpox left her face scarred, further reducing her confidence. Her delayed speech development made her a subject of ridicule, which isolated her emotionally and socially.

3. What role did the school and the teacher play in Bholi’s transformation?

The school and her teacher played a pivotal role in Bholi’s transformation. The teacher treated Bholi with kindness and patience, building her confidence. She encouraged Bholi to study and express herself, helping her overcome her insecurities. Education became the foundation for Bholi’s self-respect and independence.

4. How did Bholi feel on her first day at school? What made her happy despite her initial fears?

Bholi felt nervous and afraid on her first day at school because it was an unfamiliar environment. However, the teacher’s warm and encouraging attitude made her feel cared for. This kindness gave her hope and happiness, as she realised she could grow and learn in this new setting.

5. Why did Bholi’s parents accept Bishamber’s marriage proposal despite his age and character?

Bholi’s parents accepted Bishamber’s proposal because he was wealthy and agreed to marry her despite her scars and lack of beauty. They were desperate to secure her future, believing she would not get another proposal due to her perceived shortcomings.

6. Why did Bholi refuse to marry Bishamber at the end? What does this reveal about her character?

Bholi refused to marry Bishamber when he demanded a dowry of ₹5000 at the wedding. She stood up against the injustice and humiliation, showcasing her courage, self-respect, and determination. This revealed her transformation from a submissive girl to an independent and confident woman.

7. What is the significance of the title “Bholi”?

The title “Bholi” highlights the protagonist’s initial simplicity and vulnerability. However, as the story progresses, it contrasts her growth into a self-assured and empowered individual, symbolising the transformative power of education and self-belief.

8. How does the story address the social issue of dowry?

The story addresses dowry as a harmful social evil through Bishamber’s demand for ₹5000 during the wedding. Bholi’s rejection of this injustice serves as a critique of the practice, advocating for women’s dignity and independence over societal expectations.

9. What are the main themes of the story “Bholi”?

The main themes include:

• Education: As a tool for empowerment and transformation.
• Gender Equality: The need to value girls and provide them with opportunities.
• Self-Respect: Standing up against societal injustices.
• Social Evils: A critique of dowry and gender discrimination.

10. How does Bholi’s character develop throughout the story?

Bholi evolves from a timid, neglected girl to a confident and assertive young woman. Initially defined by her scars and speech impairment, she gains self-worth and courage through education and her teacher’s encouragement. By the end, she challenges societal norms, rejects injustice, and asserts her independence, embodying strength and resilience.

Factual Comprehension Questions from Bholi by K.A. Abbas

1. What was Bholi’s real name?
   Sulekha
2. Why was Sulekha nicknamed Bholi?
   She was simple and backward.
3. How many children did Ramlal have?
   Seven children.
4. How many siblings did Bholi have?
   Six siblings—three brothers and three sisters.
5. What was the difference between Bholi and her siblings?
   Her siblings were healthy, good-looking, and confident, unlike Bholi.
6. Why did Bholi’s parents neglect her compared to her siblings?
   She was considered less intelligent and unattractive.
7. What were the names of Bholi’s elder sisters who were married?
   Radha and Mangla.
8. What physical defect did Bholi have?
   She had pockmarks on her face due to smallpox.
9. What caused Bholi to start speaking late?
   A head injury when she was ten months old.
10. What made Bholi stammer?
    Her nervousness and lack of confidence.
11. What did the Tehsildar suggest to Ramlal?
    To send one of his daughters to school.
12. Why was Bholi sent to school?
    She had little chance of marriage, so education was seen as useful for her.
13. How did Bholi react when she first heard about going to school?
    She was frightened and hesitant.
14. What did Bholi wear on her first day of school?
    Old clothes of her sister.
15. Who welcomed Bholi at school?
    Her teacher.
16. What was Bholi’s first impression of her teacher?
    Kind and encouraging.
17. What promise did the teacher make to Bholi?
    That she would make her confident and self-reliant.
18. Who was Bishamber Nath?
    A wealthy, middle-aged man who proposed to marry Bholi.
19. What dowry did Bishamber demand at the wedding?
    Five thousand rupees.
20. Why did Bholi’s father agree to Bishamber’s demand?
    He didn’t want the wedding to be called off.
21. Why did Bholi refuse to marry Bishamber?
    He insulted her father and demanded dowry.
22. What did Bholi decide to do after rejecting the marriage?
    Stay unmarried and take care of her parents.
23. What was the teacher’s reaction to Bholi’s decision?
    She was proud of her courage and transformation.
24. Why is Sulekha used instead of Bholi at the end of the story?
    It signifies her transformation into a confident and mature woman.