K.A. Abbas’ ‘Bholi’ Summary, Vocabulary, Theme, Character Sketch, Extra Questions, important Passages and Questions Answers.

Chapter 8- ‘Bholi’ by K.A. Abbas

More from First Flight: Class 10 PROSE & Class 10 POETRY

Vocabulary/Word Meanings:

Idiomatic Expressions:

Summary ‘Bholi’ by K.A. Abbas:

Sulekha, called Bholi, was a simple girl due to a head injury and her smallpox scars. She stammered and was often mocked by others. Her family saw her as a burden because of her looks and lack of intelligence. When a girls’ school opened, her parents sent her there reluctantly. A kind teacher encouraged her at school, giving her confidence and hope for a better future. 

Years later, when a greedy man demanded dowry to marry her, Bholi bravely refused, shocking everyone. She declared she would stay single, care for her parents, and teach at the school. Bholi’s transformation symbolised her strength and dignity, breaking stereotypes about women and societal expectations.

Theme ‘Bholi’ by K.A. Abbas:

Gender Inequality & Societal Expectations:

The story highlights gender inequality and societal expectations in traditional Indian society. Bholi, being a girl, is seen as a burden because of her appearance and intelligence, reflecting how women are often judged by their beauty and marriageability. It also explores the power of education, showing how Bholi’s teacher inspires her to gain confidence and independence. 

Through Bholi’s courage to reject a greedy groom, the story emphasises self-respect and standing up against injustice. It also portrays the importance of breaking stereotypes about women and giving them opportunities to grow and contribute meaningfully to society.

Character Sketch of Bholi:

1. Introduction:

• Real name: Sulekha, nicknamed Bholi (meaning simpleton).

• Fourth daughter of Ramlal, a village revenue official.

• Labeled as a burden due to her looks and intelligence.

2. Physical Appearance and Early Challenges:

• Fair and pretty at birth but disfigured by smallpox at age two.

• Stammered while speaking, making her a target of mockery.

• Received little care or attention at home.

3. Personality :

a. Shy and Insecure

• Initially timid and fearful, reluctant to attend school.

• Had low self-esteem due to constant ridicule.

b. Transformative Growth

• Inspired by her teacher’s encouragement.

• Gained confidence and overcame her stammer.

4. Courage and Self-Respect:

• Refused to marry Bishamber, a greedy and unkind groom.

• Publicly stood up for her dignity, rejecting societal norms.

• Spoke clearly and confidently, shocking her family and the community.

5. Sense of Duty:

• She promised to care for her parents when they were old.

• Decided to become a teacher to educate others.

6. Conclusion:

• Bholi evolved from a fearful girl to a confident, independent woman.

• Represents the power of education and self-respect in overcoming social prejudices.

Questions Answers ‘Bholi’ by K.A. Abbas: 

Think About It:

Q1: Bholi had many apprehensions about going to school. What made her feel that she was going to a better place than her home?

A1: Bholi was shy and nervous and feared going to school. However, when she arrived, she saw that it was bright and clean. The children were friendly, and the teacher was kind to her. The environment made her feel that school was a much better place than her home, where she was often mistreated because of her appearance and speech.

Q2: How did Bholi’s teacher play an important role in changing the course of her life?

A2: Bholi’s teacher played a vital role by being kind, patient, and encouraging. She didn’t make fun of Bholi for her stammer or scar. Instead, she made Bholi feel confident and unique. The teacher taught her to speak properly, which helped Bholi build self-esteem. With the teacher’s support, Bholi gained confidence, which changed her life and helped her stand up for herself.

Q3: Why did Bholi at first agree to an unequal match? Why did she later reject the marriage? What does this tell us about her?

A3: Initially, Bholi agreed to the marriage because her parents pressured her, and she felt she had no choice. They promised her that the groom would care for her, and she didn’t think she deserved better because of her appearance and speech. 

However, when she learned that Bishamber was only interested in her for her family’s money and insulted her because of her appearance, Bholi rejected the marriage. This shows that Bholi had grown strong and confident. She now valued herself and refused to marry someone who did not respect her. It also indicates that Bholi had developed independence and self-respect.

Q4: 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? 

A4: Bholi’s real name is Sulekha, but she is called Bholi throughout most of the story because it reflects how others see her—as a simple, timid, and “slow-witted” girl. The name “Bholi” symbolises her struggles and how people underestimate her. However, in the last but one paragraph, when Bholi rejects the marriage and stands up for herself, she is called Sulekha. 

The change in name shows her transformation. By calling her Sulekha, the story emphasises that she has gained confidence, self-respect, and independence. It marks her growth from a quiet, ignored girl to someone ready to take control of her own life.

Talk About It:

Q1: 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? 

A1: Bholi’s teacher helped her by treating her with kindness and respect, which made Bholi believe in herself. To change social attitudes like the ones in the story, we can start by treating everyone equally, regardless of their appearance or background. 

We should encourage those who are ignored or made fun of, like Bholi, and help them build their confidence. We can also challenge unfair beliefs and behaviours, such as discrimination or prejudice, by speaking out against them. 

Finally, showing empathy and understanding can help others feel valued and supported. By creating an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with respect, we can contribute to changing negative social attitudes and helping people like Bholi feel empowered.

Q2: Should girls be aware of their rights and assert them? Should girls and boys have the same rights, duties and privileges? What are some of the ways in which society treats them differently? When we speak of ‘human rights’, do we differentiate between girls’ rights and boys’ rights? 

A2: Yes, girls should be aware of their rights and assert them. Girls and boys should have the same rights, duties, and privileges because everyone deserves equality, regardless of gender. However, society often treats them differently. 

For example, girls may be expected to do more household chores or may not be encouraged to pursue certain careers like boys. Sometimes, girls are told they are not as capable as boys in subjects like math or science. 

Human rights should be the same for everyone, regardless of gender. Both girls and boys have the right to education, freedom, safety, and the ability to make choices. However, girls often face more challenges due to social norms and cultural beliefs. Promoting gender equality is essential to ensure that girls have the same opportunities as boys. Ultimately, human rights encompass fairness and respect for all individuals.

Q3: Do you think the characters in the story were speaking to each other in English? If not, in which language were they speaking? (You can get clues from the names of the persons and the non English words used in the story.) 

A3: No, the characters in the story were not speaking in English. Based on the names of the characters, such as Bholi and her parents, and from terms like “panchayat” (village council), “ghar” (home), “babuji” (father), and “dahej” (dowry) are all words from Indian languages; it’s clear that they were likely speaking in Hindi. 

The story is set in a village in India, where people naturally use their local language for communication. English is not commonly spoken in rural areas, except in certain situations like at school or with outsiders.

Extra Questions ‘Bholi’ by K.A. Abbas: 

Short Answer Type Questions:

Q1: How did Bholi’s life change after joining the school?

A1: After joining the school, Bholi gained confidence and started learning. Her teacher encouraged her to speak and overcome her fears. Education helped Bholi grow into a brave and self-respecting person. She stopped feeling inferior and realised her worth, becoming bold enough to make her own decisions.

Q2: Why did Ramlal agree to send Bholi to school?

A2: Ramlal agreed to send Bholi to school because she had fewer prospects due to her scars and speech problems. The Tehsildar suggested it, and her parents believed it would make her look after herself. They thought education wouldn’t harm her as she wasn’t expected to marry quickly.

Q3: What was Bishamber’s demand during the wedding, and how did Bholi respond?

A3: During the wedding, Bishamber demanded a dowry of 5,000 rupees, insulting Bholi’s family. Bholi courageously refused to marry him despite pressure from her parents. She stood up for her dignity, showing her transformation from a timid girl into a confident woman who valued self-respect over societal norms.

Q4: How does Bholi’s decision at the wedding reflect her transformation?

A4: Bholi’s decision to reject Bishamber showed her courage and self-respect. It reflected how education had empowered her to challenge unfair practices. Once a shy and insecure girl, she transformed into a bold woman who could stand up for her beliefs, even against societal and family expectations.

Q5:  What role did Bholi’s teacher play in shaping her character?

A5: Bholi’s teacher was kind and supportive, helping her gain confidence. She encouraged Bholi to overcome her fears and focus on learning. Through constant motivation, the teacher made Bholi realise her worth, shaping her into a brave and independent woman capable of standing up for her rights and dignity.

Q6:  Why was Bholi’s family willing to marry her to Bishamber despite his flaws?

A6: Bholi’s family was desperate to marry her because they saw her as a burden due to her scars and speech problems. They ignored Bishamber’s age and greed, believing no other man would accept her. Their decision reflected societal pressure to prioritise marriage over the bride’s happiness or self-respect.

Q7: How did Bholi’s actions challenge societal norms and expectations?

A7: Bholi defied societal norms by rejecting Bishamber’s unfair demand for dowry and refusing to marry him. Her bold decision showed that women deserve respect and equality, regardless of societal pressures. By prioritising her dignity, she proved that self-respect is more important than blindly following traditional expectations.

Q8: What does the ending reveal about Bholi’s courage and self-respect?

A8: The ending highlights Bholi’s transformation into a confident woman. She chose to stay unmarried and care for her parents rather than marry a greedy man. Her actions showed great courage and self-respect, proving that she had overcome her fears and embraced her independence with pride.

Q9: How does the story portray the significance of education in empowering individuals?

A9: The story shows that education transformed Bholi from a timid, insecure girl into a confident and self-reliant woman. Learning gave her the courage to stand up for herself, reject injustice, and make independent decisions. It emphasises that education is critical to gaining confidence, self-respect, and breaking societal barriers.

Q10: How does Bholi’s journey inspire others to overcome challenges?

A10: Bholi’s journey shows that with support and education, anyone can overcome challenges like fear, rejection, and societal pressure. Her transformation from a hesitant girl to a bold woman inspires others to believe in themselves, fight for their rights, and stand against injustice with confidence and determination.

Long Answer Type Questions: 

Q1: Why was Sulekha nicknamed Bholi, and how did her early life shape her personality?

A1: Sulekha was nicknamed Bholi, meaning simpleton, because she was a slow learner and stammered while speaking. As a child, she fell off a cot, injuring her brain, which affected her mental development. Later, smallpox scars disfigured her face, making her feel unattractive. These events made her timid and unsure of herself. 

She rarely spoke because of her speech problem and feared being mocked. Her family treated her differently; they didn’t care about her future, assuming she would remain dependent on them. These experiences left her feeling unloved and inferior, shaping her shy and insecure personality. However, her journey later in life shows how she overcomes these challenges with encouragement and support.

Q2: Why did Ramlal decide to send Bholi to school, and how did her mother react?

A2: Ramlal decided to send Bholi to school after the Tehsildar advised him to set an example for others as the village headman. Ramlal hesitated but eventually chose Bholi because she wasn’t considered suitable for marriage due to her appearance and speech issues. He believed the school wouldn’t harm her prospects since no one expected much from her. 

Bholi’s mother strongly opposed the idea, worrying that education might spoil her or reduce her chances of getting married. In those times, sending girls to school was unusual, and her mother feared societal judgment. Despite her objections, Ramlal sent Bholi to school, starting her journey toward self-confidence and independence.

Q3: Describe Bholi’s first day at school. How did her teacher’s encouragement change her outlook on life?

A3: Bholi felt nervous on her first day at school. She was overwhelmed by the unfamiliar surroundings and frightened by the other children. When the teacher asked her name, she stammered, and the children laughed at her, which embarrassed her deeply. 

However, the teacher’s kind and gentle words comforted her. The teacher assured Bholi she was not inferior and encouraged her to learn without fear. She spoke with patience and even praised her small efforts. For the first time, Bholi felt someone cared for her and believed in her potential. This kindness gave her hope and marked the beginning of her transformation, filling her with a newfound desire to learn and grow.

Q4: Why was Bishamber Nath considered a suitable match for Bholi? How did his behaviour at the wedding reveal his true character?

A4: Bishamber Nath, a middle-aged widower with grown children, was considered a suitable match for Bholi because he was wealthy and did not initially demand a dowry. Bholi’s parents, especially her mother, were eager to accept the proposal as they feared no one else would marry Bholi due to her looks and stammer. 

However, Bishamber revealed his greed and selfishness during the wedding by demanding a dowry of five thousand rupees after noticing Bholi’s pockmarked face. He humiliated her family publicly and showed no empathy or kindness. His behaviour exposed him as a greedy and insensitive man who valued money over humanity, shattering his image as a respectable suitor.

Q5: How did Bholi react to Bishamber’s demand for dowry, and what does this reveal about her transformation?

A5: When Bishamber demanded a dowry, Bholi showed remarkable courage by refusing to marry him. She called him out for his greed and cruelty, shocking everyone. Despite societal pressure, she stood firm, rejecting the humiliation of marrying someone who valued money over respect. 

Her reaction highlighted her transformation from a timid, insecure girl to a confident, self-respecting woman. Bholi realised her worth and chose dignity over a life of compromise. Her decision reflected her inner strength and independence, which she had gained through education and the encouragement of her teacher. This moment marked a turning point, showing her maturity and readiness to take control of her life.

Q6: How does Bholi’s refusal to marry Bishamber reflect her growth and newfound confidence?

A6: Bholi’s refusal to marry Bishamber was a bold and empowering act that reflected her significant growth. Earlier in life, Bholi was shy, afraid, and dependent on others. However, she demonstrated self-respect and courage by rejecting Bishamber’s dowry demand. She no longer feared societal judgment or the stigma of remaining unmarried. Instead, she embraced her individuality and dignity. 

The steadfast decision showed her confidence in her abilities and her belief in leading a life of self-worth rather than submitting to exploitation. It also highlighted the positive influence of education and her teacher’s encouragement, which had helped her discover her voice. Bholi’s stand was a powerful message against societal norms and greed.

Q7: What role did Bholi’s teacher play in transforming her life? How is this evident in the story’s conclusion?

A7: Bholi’s teacher played a crucial role in her transformation by showing her kindness and instilling confidence. On Bholi’s first day at school, the teacher encouraged her to speak without fear and reassured her that she was intelligent and capable. 

The teacher’s support marked the beginning of Bholi’s journey toward self-confidence. The teacher’s belief in her abilities motivated Bholi to overcome her insecurities and strive for a better future. 

By the story’s conclusion, Bholi’s decision to reject Bishamber and stand up for her dignity demonstrated the values her teacher had instilled. Her resolve to dedicate her life to teaching further reflected the teacher’s influence, as education became her strength and her way of contributing to society.

Q8: How did Bholi challenge societal norms and expectations through her actions?

A8: Bholi challenged societal norms by rejecting the dowry system and standing up for her dignity, even at the cost of her marriage. In a society where women were often expected to remain silent and accept their fate, her bold decision to refuse Bishamber’s proposal was revolutionary. 

She showed that a woman’s worth is not determined by her looks or marital status but by her character and self-respect. By choosing to stay unmarried and dedicating her life to teaching, Bholi defied the traditional expectations of women prioritising marriage over personal goals. 

Her actions were a powerful statement against greed, gender inequality, and social pressures, setting an example for others to challenge unfair practices.

Q9: What does Bholi’s decision to stay with her parents and teach at the school signify about her character?

A9: Bholi’s decision to stay with her parents and teach at the school showed her compassion, gratitude, and maturity. Instead of focusing on personal desires, she prioritised caring for her ageing parents, recognising their sacrifices for her. This decision highlighted her deep sense of responsibility and selflessness. 

By choosing to teach, Bholi aimed to empower other children, especially girls, to overcome challenges and embrace education as she had. It also reflected her inner strength and confidence, as she no longer depended on societal approval or validation through marriage. 

Bholi’s choice signified her transformation into an independent, determined, and empathetic individual who valued personal growth and the well-being of others over traditional norms.

Q10: How is the theme of self-respect portrayed in Bholi’s journey, especially in the climactic wedding scene?

A10: The theme of self-respect is central to Bholi’s journey and is most evident in the wedding scene. Despite her initial insecurities, Bholi grows into a confident young woman who values her dignity above all else. 

When Bishamber Nath demands dowry at the wedding, Bholi firmly rejects him, choosing her self-respect over societal pressure to marry. Her courage in the face of public scrutiny highlights her transformation from a timid, insecure girl to a bold individual. 

By refusing to marry a greedy and cruel man, Bholi conveys the importance of dignity and integrity. Her actions show genuine self-respect, from standing up for oneself and challenging societal norms and expectations.

Important Passages/Excerpts: 

1. “Her heart was throbbing with fear as she stammered: ‘Ye-ye-yes.’ She kept her head down as she walked to the other corner of the room, and sat down in a corner.”

Significance:

• Reflects Bholi’s initial timidity and fear of stepping into an unfamiliar environment.

• Demonstrates how her low self-esteem shaped her behaviour early in the story.

2. “Don’t be afraid, little one. Mark my words; one day you will speak like everyone else.”

Significance:

• Highlights the teacher’s role in transforming Bholi’s personality.

• Shows the beginning of Bholi’s journey toward confidence.

3. “Pitaji, have I no voice? I don’t want to marry this man!”

Significance:

• Marks Bholi’s turning point as she stands up for her self-respect.

• She challenges societal norms and portrays her growth into a strong individual.

4. “I will serve you and mother in your old age and teach in the same school where I learned so much.”

Significance:

• Shows Bholi’s sense of responsibility and gratitude toward her parents.

• Demonstrates her selflessness and ambition to empower others through education.

5. “Everyone was stunned to hear this confident and mature girl who was no longer Bholi, the simpleton.”

Significance:

• Emphasises Bholi’s transformation into a confident and self-assured woman.

• Highlights the impact of education and encouragement.

6. “She was the fourth daughter of Numberdar Ramlal, and when she was ten months old, she had fallen off her cot on her head and perhaps it had damaged some part of her brain.”

Significance:

• Explains Bholi’s background, physical challenges, and the societal perception of her as a burden.

• Helps understand why her family treated her differently.

7. “Let her go. What’s the harm? Who will marry her with her ugly face and lack of sense?”

Significance:

• Reflects the family’s neglectful attitude toward Bholi.

• Shows how sending her to school was not out of love or support but dismissal of her prospects.

8. “But I will marry her only if you give me five thousand rupees.”

Significance:

• Illustrates the social evil of dowry.

• Highlights Bishamber’s greed and lack of compassion, setting up the climax in which Bholi takes a stand.

9. “Take two thousand rupees.”

Significance:

• It depicts the helplessness of Bholi’s father, Ramlal, who is willing to sacrifice his pride for her marriage.

• Reveals the emotional and societal pressure on families in such situations.

10. “She remembered how her teacher had filled her with confidence. She could now see the world in a new light.”

Significance:

• Highlights the role of education and support in empowering individuals.

• Shows Bholi’s internal transformation and newfound independence.

11. “Bholi felt as if suddenly all the bells in the village temple were ringing and the trees in front of the school-house had blossomed into big red flowers. Her heart was throbbing with a new hope and a new life.”

Significance:

• Marks a turning point in Bholi’s transformation.

• The passage symbolises the awakening of Bholi’s inner strength, confidence, and optimism, which she has received through education.

• The imagery of bells ringing and trees blossoming emphasises the joy and change she experiences after receiving an education.