Chapter 5 “Glimpses of India” of the Class 10 English textbook, ‘First Flight,’ revolves around narratives from three distinct tourist destinations in India. These places not only captivate visitors from all corners of the country but also lure them with the promise of authentic cultural experiences and unique, specialized items.
Glimpses of India Part 1: A Baker from Goa Summary
“Baker From Goa” is written by “Lucio Rodrigues”, who talked about Goa a region once under Portuguese rule. Influenced by Portuguese culture, the locals engaged in the traditional profession of baking, with bakers known as ‘paders.’ The story centers on these bakers in a Goan village. In the past, people relished large oven-baked loaves, sold in the streets by the paders, who announced their arrival with bamboo jingles. The author fondly recalls childhood memories of villagers delighting in these loaves and bread bangles brought in baskets for the children by these bakers.
The writer also detailed the described outfit worn by the bakers, known as Kabai, a one-piece frock extending to their knees. Additionally, the author highlighted how baking emerged as a highly profitable profession in Goa. Many bakers enjoyed prosperity, and their jackfruit-like physique served as evidence of their well-being.
Glimpses of India Part 2: Coorg Summary
“Coorg,” a story by Lokesh Abrol, portrays it as the smallest district in Karnataka. Described as a beautiful destination between Mangalore and Mysore, Coorg (or Kodagu) is surrounded by lush forests, spice gardens, and coffee plantations. Visitors flock to this enchanting place from September to March, with the air filled with the fragrance of coffee. The locals are known for their independence and share a historical link with Greece and Arabia, tracing back to Alexander’s army settling here and marrying locals. This tradition continues, with people in Coorg wearing Kuppia, a long black coat similar to those worn by Arabs.
Moreover, the courageous people of Coorg are known for their bravery. The Coorg Regiment stands as one of the most important regiments in the Indian Army. Remarkably, General Cariappa, the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, hailed from this stunning place. The hills and forests of Coorg play a crucial role as a significant water source for the Cauvery River. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy various high-adrenaline sports in this area and discover the diverse wildlife unique to this region.
Glimpses of India Part 3: Tea from Assam Summary
“Tea from Assam” is a narrative by “Arup Kumar Datta”, concluding the prose collection, Glimpses of India. The story unfolds with two friends, Rajvir and Pranjol, embarking on a journey to Assam. Along the way, they purchased fresh tea from a roadside vendor, engaging in a conversation about the unique tea of the region. As they savored the hot, steaming tea, Rajvir shared with Pranjol that globally, over eighty crore cups of tea are consumed every day. Rajvir delighted in the scenic beauty of Assam, adorned with tea plantations and bushes, while Pranjol remained absorbed in a detective book.
Rajvir went on to tell Pranjol more about Assam, known for having the largest tea plantations. However, the exact origin of tea in the region remains a mystery. According to a Chinese tale, a few tea leaves accidentally dropped into a pot of boiling water. The Emperor found the resulting liquid delicious, giving rise to the creation of tea. Rajvir also shared an Indian legend about Bodhidharma, a Buddhist monk, who, as the story goes, cut off his eyelids for nodding off during meditation. Miraculously, ten tea plants sprouted from his eyelids, and brewing these leaves in hot water was believed to ward off sleep.
Shortly after, they reached Mariani Junction, collected their luggage, and headed towards Dhekiabari Tea Estate. On the journey, they observed groups of tea-pluckers wearing plastic aprons with bamboo baskets on their backs, gathering the newly sprouted leaves. Pranjol’s father was there to welcome them. He was impressed by Rajvir’s understanding of tea plantations when the young boy talked about the second flush or the period when tea sprouts the best. Rajvir expressed his eagerness to learn more about the place from Pranjol’s father.
Conclusion of Glimpses of India
In the chapter “Glimpses of India,” we discovered the enchanting landscapes and unique features of various regions in India. There are numerous captivating places to explore within India before venturing to discover destinations abroad.
We trust that this summary of the CBSE Class 10 English First Flight Prose, Glimpses of India has provided you with a quick grasp of the chapter. Stay connected with GK Publications for the latest updates on CBSE and study materials. Explore sample papers and question papers from various years to enhance your preparation for the Board exams.
