Chapter 5, “Glimpses of India (Part 2) Coorg by Lokesh Abrol Summary, Key Points, Textbook Exercises with Extra Questions (Short and Long Answer Type).

Chapter 5- Glimpses of India (Part 2) Coorg by Lokesh Abrol:

Previous: Glimpses of India (Part 1) “A Baker from Goa” by Lucio Rodrigues:

Summary “Glimpses of India (Part 2) Coorg”:

“Coorg,” by Lokesh Abrol, describes Coorg (Kodagu) in Karnataka, India, known for its coffee, rainforests, and spices. Midway between Mysore and Mangalore, the region is inhabited by proud martial people believed to have Greek or Arabic origins.

Coorg boasts beautiful landscapes, including the Brahmagiri hills and the river Kaveri. Visitors can enjoy activities like river rafting, trekking, and wildlife watching. The area is also famous for its hospitality and historical significance, with connections to the Indian Army. Nearby attractions include the island of Nisargadhama and the Tibetan settlement in Bylakuppe.

Key points “Glimpses of India (Part 2) Coorg” by Lokesh Abrol:

Questions Answers “Glimpses of India (Part 2) Coorg”:

Thinking About The Text:

Q1: Where is Coorg?

A1: Coorg is located in the state of Karnataka, India. It is situated midway between the cities of Mysore and Mangalore.

Q2: What is the story about the Kodavu people’s descent?

A2: The Kodavu people of Coorg are believed to be of Greek or Arabic descent. One story suggests that a part of Alexander the Great’s army settled in Coorg when they couldn’t return home. Another theory is that they have Arab origins, as their traditional dress resembles the Arab kuffia.

Q3: What are some of the things you now know about

(i) The people of Coorg?

• The Kodavu people are proud, martial, and hospitable.

• They may be of Greek or Arabic descent.

• They have unique traditions and attire.

(ii) What is the main crop of Coorg?

• The main crop of Coorg is coffee.

(iii) What sports does it offer tourists?

• Coorg offers river rafting, canoeing, rappelling, rock climbing, mountain biking, and trekking.

(iv) The animals you are likely to see in Coorg?

• You will likely see kingfishers, squirrels, langurs, elephants, macaques, Malabar squirrels, and slender loris.

(v) Its distance from Bangalore, and how to get there?

• Coorg is about 260 kilometres from Bangalore.

• You can get there by air (nearest airports: Mangalore and Bangalore), by rail (nearest stations: Mysore, Mangalore, Hassan), or by road (via Mysore or Neelamangal).

Q4: Here are six sentences with some words in italics. Find phrases from the text that have the same meaning. (Look in the paragraphs indicated)

(i) During monsoons it rains so heavily that tourists do not visit Coorg.

• “During the monsoons, it pours enough to keep many visitors away.” (para 2)

(ii) Some people say that Alexander’s army moved south along the coast and settled there.

• “As one story goes, a part of Alexander’s army moved south along the coast and settled here when return became impractical.” (para 3)

(iii) The Coorg people are always ready to tell stories of their sons’ and fathers’ valour.

• “They are more than willing to recount numerous tales of valour related to their sons and fathers.” (para 4)

(iv) Even people who typically lead an easy and slow life get smitten by the high-energy adventure sports of Coorg.

• “The most laidback individuals become converts to the life of high-energy adventure with river rafting, canoeing, rappelling, rock climbing and mountain biking.” (para 6)

(v) The theory of the Arab origin is supported by the long coat with embroidered waist-belt they wear.

• “The theory of Arab origin draws support from the long, black coat with an embroidered waist-belt worn by the Kodavus. Known as kuppia, it resembles the kuffia worn by the Arabs and the Kurds.” (para 3)

(vi) Macaques, Malabar squirrels observe you carefully from the tree canopy.

• “Macaques, Malabar squirrels, langurs and slender loris keep a watchful eye from the tree canopy.” (para 7)

Thinking About Language::

Collocations:

Let’s match the given nouns with suitable adjectives. 

(i) Culture: unique culture, ancient culture

(ii) Monks: ancient monks, serious monks

(iii) Surprise: sudden surprise, unforgettable surprise

(iv) Experience: unforgettable experience, unique experience, terrible experience

(v) Weather: terrible weather, unique weather

(vi) Tradition: ancient tradition, unique tradition

2. Complete the following phrases from the text. For each phrase, can you find at least one other word that would fit into the blank?

(i) Tales of

• tales of bravery
• tales of adventure
• tales of mystery
• tales of heroes

(ii) Coastal

• coastal town
• coastal area
• coastal breeze
• coastal city

(iii) A piece of

• a piece of cake
• a piece of land
• a piece of advice
• a piece of jewellery

(iv) Evergreen

• evergreen tree
• evergreen forest
• evergreen plant
• evergreen shrub

(v) Plantations

• plantations of tea
• plantations of cotton
• plantations of fruits
• Plantations of sugarcane

(vi) Bridge

• bridge crossing
• bridge builder
• bridge design
• bridge structure

(vii) Wild

• wild animals
• wild party
• wild forest
• wild behaviour

Extra Questions “Glimpses of India (Part 2) Coorg”: 

Short Answer Type Questions: 

Q1: What is Coorg known for, and what kind of climate does it experience?

A1: Coorg, known as Kodagu, is renowned for its coffee plantations, evergreen rainforests, and spices. It experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season but has a pleasant climate from September to March, with some showers and invigorating coffee-scented air.

Q2: What are some unique aspects of the Coorgi people and their history?

A2: The Coorgi, possibly of Greek or Arabic descent, are known for their martial traditions and distinct cultural practices. They are the only Indians permitted to carry firearms without a license and have a rich history of courage, exemplified by the decorated Coorg Regiment and General Cariappa.

Q3: What activities and natural features make Coorg an attractive destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers?

A3: Coorg offers river rafting, canoeing, rappelling, rock climbing, and mountain biking. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy walking trails, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting, including elephants, macaques, and langurs. The Brahmagiri hills and the Nisargadhama island offer panoramic views and additional exploration opportunities.

Q4: How can travellers reach Coorg, and what are the nearby transportation options?

A4: Travelers can reach Coorg via the nearest airports in Mangalore (135 km) and Bangalore (260 km), with flights from major cities. The closest railheads are Mysore, Mangalore, and Hassan. By road, Coorg is accessible from Bangalore through routes via Mysore or Neelamangal.

Long Answer Type Questions: 

Q1: What are the critical features of Coorg’s geography and climate?

A1: Coorg, known as Kodagu, is famous for its beautiful landscape and climate. It has lush, evergreen rainforests that cover about thirty per cent of the area. The region experiences heavy rains during the monsoon season, from June to September, making it quite wet and sometimes challenging to visit. 

However, the best time to go is from September to March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. The air is fresh and filled with the aroma of coffee. Coorg is known for its rolling hills, coffee plantations, and spice gardens, creating a perfect environment for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Q2: What are the origins of the Coorgi people according to local theories?

A2: Local theories suggest that the Coorgi or Kodavus might have origins in Greece or Arabia. One story says that a part of Alexander the Great’s army came to India and settled in Coorg when returning home became too difficult. These soldiers married local people, and their culture influenced the region. 

Another theory suggests that the Kodavus have Arabic roots, as their traditional cuppa dress—a black coat with an embroidered belt — looks similar to the kuffia worn by Arabs. These theories highlight how Coorg’s unique cultural practices and traditions might connect to ancient historical groups.

Q3: How does the traditional attire of the Kodavus reflect their cultural background?

A3: The traditional attire of the Kodavus, called the kuppia, shows their unique cultural background. The kuppia is a black coat with an embroidered waist belt. This style is similar to the kuffia worn by Arabs and Kurds, suggesting that the Kodavus might connect to these cultures. 

The attire reflects their proud and independent nature, as well as their distinct identity. It also helps preserve their cultural heritage, linking them to historical influences worldwide. Wearing this traditional dress is an integral part of their culture and shows how their history has shaped their present-day customs and traditions.

Q4: What activities can visitors enjoy in Coorg?

A4: Visitors to Coorg can enjoy many exciting activities. For adventure lovers, there is river rafting, canoeing, rappelling, rock climbing, and mountain biking. These activities let people experience the thrill of nature. Coorg also offers beautiful walking trails perfect for hiking and exploring the lush landscape. 

Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts can see various birds, bees, butterflies, and animals like macaques and langurs. For a more relaxing experience, visitors can enjoy the scenic views from the Brahmagiri hills or the Nisargadhama island. 

Coorg’s natural beauty and outdoor activities make it an excellent destination for adventure seekers and those wanting to enjoy a peaceful retreat.

Q5: What is the significance of the Kaveri River in Coorg?

A5: The Kaveri River is significant in Coorg. It starts in the hills and forests of Coorg and provides water to the region. This river is crucial for the local environment and the people living there. It supports various wildlife, including the Mahaseer fish, which live in the river. 

The river also helps keep the land fertile, essential for coffee and spices in Coorg. People often see kingfishers diving for fish and enjoy the playful activities of animals like elephants and langurs by the river. The Kaveri River is central to Coorg’s natural beauty and ecosystem, making it vital for the environment and local culture.

Q6: How can travellers from major cities like Bangalore and Mangalore reach Coorg from Coorg?

A6: Travellers from major cities like Bangalore and Mangalore can reach Coorg by different methods. From Bangalore, they can drive or take a bus using two main routes: Mysore and Neelamangal. Both routes are around 250-260 kilometres and take about 5-7 hours. The route via Mysore is more popular. 

From Mangalore, travellers can also drive or take a bus, which is about 135 kilometres and takes around 3-4 hours. There are no direct trains or flights to Coorg, so travellers usually use road transport. For the best experience, they should plan their trip based on the weather and road conditions to enjoy the scenic journey to Coorg.

Q6: How does Part 2, “Coorg,” reflect the broader theme of “Glimpses of India” in showcasing the diverse beauty and cultural richness of India?

A6: Part 2, “Coorg,” fits well with the chapter heading “Glimpses of India” because it highlights a unique and beautiful part of India. “Glimpses of India” means showing different parts of the country, and “Coorg” gives a unique view of India’s natural beauty and culture. 

Coorg is known for its green hills, coffee plantations, and rich wildlife, which add to India’s diverse landscapes. It also shows the Kodavus people’s unique culture, history, and traditions. 

By focusing on Coorg, the chapter provides a glimpse into how varied and exciting different regions of India can be, helping readers appreciate the country’s many other features and cultures.