Class 9, Vikram Seth’s ‘Kathmandu’ Summary, Word Meanings, Theme, Textbook Questions Answers, Important Passages and Extra Questions.

Chapter 8- ‘Kathmandu’ by Vikram Seth

More from Beehive: Class 9- PROSE, Class 9- POETRY

Supplementary Reader: Class 9 ‘Moments‘

Vocabulary:

Word Meanings and Expressions:

Summary ‘Kathmandu’ Vikram Seth:

In Kathmandu by Vikram Seth (excerpt from ‘From Heaven Lake‘), the author explores two sacred temples in Nepal. Pashupatinath, the Hindu temple, has a lively, chaotic atmosphere with priests, devotees, animals, and tourists. The Bagmati River flows nearby, where rituals like cremation take place. 

In contrast, the Baudhnath stupa, a Buddhist shrine, is peaceful and surrounded by Tibetan shops. The narrator describes the vibrant city streets, filled with noise, vendors, and a mix of modern and traditional life. He indulges in street food, souvenirs, and magazines. 

A flute seller captivates him with meditative music, symbolising the universal and timeless nature of the flute. Feeling homesick, the narrator decides to fly home, reflecting on the emotional pull of familiar sights and sounds.

Theme ‘Kathmandu’ Vikram Seth:

Kathmandu: A Blend of Vibrance and Tranquility:

Vikram Seth’s Kathmandu explores the contrast between chaos and tranquillity in human experiences. Through his visits to the bustling Pashupatinath temple and the serene Baudhnath stupa, the author highlights the diversity of religious practices and cultural life in Kathmandu. 

The travelogue explores how vibrant city life, with its noise, commerce, and rituals, coexists with moments of stillness and reflection. The narrator’s interaction with the flute seller underscores the universal power of music to connect people and evoke deep emotions. 

The piece also touches on themes of homesickness and the comfort of familiar routines as the narrator chooses to return home. He reflects on the emotional impact of his journey and the significance of small, personal experiences.

Note on the author Vikram Seth ‘Kathmandu’:

1. Character Attributes:

a. Curious Explorer:

• Visits both Hindu and Buddhist sacred sites, observing details with keen interest.

• Indulges in local food, shopping, and cultural experiences.

b. Emotionally Reflective:

• Deeply moved by the flute music and its universal appeal.

• Reflects on homesickness and the significance of familiar things.

c. Observant and Perceptive:

• Notices the chaotic yet meaningful rituals at Pashupatinath.

• Contrasts the peace of Baudhnath with the lively streets of Kathmandu.

d. Likes and Interests:

• Appreciates both vibrant city life and serene spaces.

• Enjoys simple pleasures like marzipan, roasted corn, and music.

2. Behavioural Attributes:

a. Mindful Traveller:

• Respectful of cultural practices, offering flowers at temples.

• Observes without interfering with local traditions.

• Chooses a direct flight home when exhausted and homesick.

3. Significant Moments:

• Captivated by the flute seller’s music, he feels connected to humanity’s shared emotions, showing his sensitivity and love for art.

• Physical Journey vs. Emotional Journey: The narrator’s journey is not just physical (exploring Kathmandu) but also emotional and reflective (contemplating homesickness and the significance of cultural moments).

• Cultural Sensitivity: His awareness of artistic boundaries, such as respecting the “Hindus only” rule at Pashupatinath, highlights his respect for traditions.

• Inner Conflict: His struggle between enjoying the vibrant city and longing for home adds depth to his character.

• Sense of Humour: His light-hearted mention of indulging in snacks and reading comics shows his relatable, human side.

• Observations of Humanity: From the chaos at Pashupatinath to the calm of Baudhnath, his detailed observations reflect a fascination with human diversity.

Vikram Seth is a thoughtful and sensitive traveller who embraces Kathmandu’s chaos and tranquillity, reflecting on the universal connections between life and art.

Textbook Questions Answers ‘Kathmandu’:

Thinking about the Text: 

I. Answer these questions in one or two words or short phrases.

1. Name the two temples the author visited in Kathmandu.

A1: Pashupatinath and Baudhnath Stupa.

2. The writer says, “All this I wash down with Coca-Cola.” What does ‘all this’ refer to?

A2: Marzipan, roasted corn, love story comics, Reader’s Digest, orange drink.

3. What does Vikram Seth compare to the quills of a porcupine?

A3: Bansuris (flutes).

4. Name five kinds of flutes.

A4: Reed neh, recorder, shakuhachi, bansuri, Chinese flutes.

II. Answer each question in a short paragraph.

Q1: What difference does the author note between the flute seller and the other hawkers?

A1: The author observes that the flute seller differs from the other hawkers’ demeanour. While the other hawkers loudly call out to attract buyers, the flute seller remains calm and quiet. He plays his flutes meditatively, letting the music speak for itself. He does not aggressively try to sell his wares but makes sales offhand as if it is incidental to his activity. The flute seller’s unique, serene approach sets him apart from the noisy and mercantile atmosphere around him.

Q2: What is the belief at Pashupatinath about the end of Kaliyug?

A2: At Pashupatinath, it is believed that the goddess enshrined in a small shrine on the stone platform along the Bagmati River will emerge when the shrine fully protrudes. According to the belief, this event will mark the end of Kaliyug, the current age of moral decline and chaos, and bring about a new era of righteousness and harmony on earth.

3. The author has drawn powerful images and pictures. Pick out three examples of each of

(i) Atmosphere of ‘febrile confusion’ outside Pashupatinath:

1. People trying to get the priest’s attention are elbowed aside.
2. A fight breaks out between two monkeys.
3. A group of saffron-clad Westerners argue with a policeman to enter the temple.

(ii) Things the author sees:

1. Priests, hawkers, cows, monkeys, pigeons, and dogs roam on the temple grounds.
2. A corpse is being cremated on the banks of the Bagmati river.
3. Shops selling Tibetan items like felt bags and silver jewellery near Baudhnath Stupa.

(iii) Sounds the author hears:

1. Film songs blaring from radios.
2. Car horns and bicycle bells ringing.
3. The meditative flute music rises above the city noise.

III. Answer the following questions in not more than 100–150 words each.

Q1: Compare and contrast the atmosphere in and around the Baudhnath shrine with the Pashupatinath temple.

A1: The atmosphere at Pashupatinath temple is busy, noisy, and full of activity. There is a mix of priests, devotees, tourists, hawkers, and animals like cows and monkeys. People push and elbow their way to get the priest’s attention, and a group of Westerners argues with a policeman to enter the temple. The overall feeling is chaotic and lively.

In contrast, the Baudhnath shrine is calm and peaceful. Its large white dome is surrounded by a quiet road and small shops selling Tibetan items. Unlike Pashupatinath, there are no large crowds, and the area feels like a haven of stillness. The contrast between the two places highlights Pashupatinath’s energy and activity compared to Baudhnath’s serenity and quietness.

Q2: How does the author describe Kathmandu’s busiest streets?

A2: The author describes Kathmandu’s busiest streets as lively, colourful, and activity-filled. The narrow streets are lined with small shrines adorned with flowers and bustling shops selling traditional and modern items. Vendors sell fruits, postcards, and local goods, while other shops offer Western products like chocolates, cosmetics, and film rolls. 

The streets are filled with a mix of sounds: film songs blaring from radios, honking car horns, ringing bicycle bells, and the calls of street vendors. Stray cows wander, adding to the lively atmosphere. The writer indulges in treats like roasted corn, marzipan, and Coca-Cola, embracing the energy of the streets. Kathmandu’s vivid description reflects its unique blend of tradition, modernity, and chaos.

Q3: “To hear any flute is to be drawn into the commonality of all mankind.” Why does the author say this?

A3: The author says, “To hear any flute is to be drawn into the commonality of all mankind” because flute music is universal and found in every culture. Each type of flute, like the bansuri in India, the shakuhachi in Japan, or the reed neh, has its unique style, but all create sounds that resemble the human voice. Flute music is emotional and connects deeply with people, evoking shared feelings and memories.

The author feels that the breath powering the flute makes it a living instrument, requiring pauses like a human voice. Listening to flute music reminds him of humanity’s shared emotions and experiences, bringing a sense of unity and connection with people worldwide. The flute’s universal appeal moves him and highlights the common bond among different cultures.

Thinking about Language: 

I. Read the following sentences carefully to understand the meaning of the italicised phrases. Then, match the phrasal verbs in Column A with their meanings in Column B.

1. A communal war broke out when the princess was abducted by the neighbouring prince.

2. The cockpit broke off from the plane during the plane crash.

3. The car broke down on the way and we were left stranded in the jungle.

4. The dacoit broke away from the police as they took him to court.

5. The brothers broke up after the death of the father.

6. The thief broke into our house when we were away.

Answers:

1. break out – (d) to start suddenly, (usually a fight, a war, or a disease)
2. break off – (a) to come apart due to force
3. break down – (f) stop working
4. break away (from someone) – (e) to escape from someone’s grip
5. break up – (b) end a relationship
6. break into – (c) break and enter illegally; unlawful trespassing

II . 1. Use the suffixes -ion or -tion to form nouns from the following verbs. Make the necessary changes in the spellings of the words. Example: proclaim – proclamation

Answers:

1. Cremate → Cremation
2. Act → Action
3. Exhaust → Exhaustion
4. Invent → Invention
5. Tempt → Temptation
6. Immigrate → Immigration
7. Direct → Direction
8. Meditate → Meditation
9. Imagine → Imagination
10. Dislocate → Dislocation
11. Associate → Association
12. Dedicate → Dedication

2. Now fill in the blanks with suitable words from the ones that you have formed.

i) Mass literacy was possible only after the invention of the printing machine.

(ii) Ramesh is unable to tackle the situation as he lacks direction.

(iii) I could not resist the temptation to open the letter.

(iv) Hard work and dedication are the main keys to success.

(v) The children were almost fainting with exhaustion after being made to stand in the sun.

III. Punctuation:

Use capital letters, full stops, question marks, commas and inverted commas wherever necessary in the following paragraph. 

An arrogant lion was wandering through the jungle one day. He asked the tiger, “Who is stronger than you?”

“You, O lion,” replied the tiger.

“Who is more fierce than a leopard?” asked the lion.

“You, sir,” replied the leopard.

He marched up to an elephant and asked the same question. The elephant picked him up in his trunk, swung him in the air, and threw him down.

“Look,” said the lion, “there is no need to get mad just because you don’t know the answer.”

IV. Simple Present Tense:

1. Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the verb in brackets.

(i) The heart is a pump that sends the blood circulating through our body. The pumping action takes place when the left ventricle of the heart contracts. This forces the blood out into the arteries, which expand to receive the oncoming blood.

(ii) The African lungfish can live without water for up to four years. During a drought, it digs a pit and encloses itself in a capsule of slime and earth, leaving a tiny opening for air. The capsule dries and hardens, but when rain comes, the mud dissolves and the lungfish swims away.

(iii) MAHESH: We have to organise a class party for our teacher.

                         Does anyone play an instrument?

       VIPUL: Rohit plays the flute.

       MAHESH: Does he also act?

       VIPUL: No, he composes music.

       MAHESH: That’s wonderful!

Speaking:

1. Discuss in class the shrines you have visited or know about. Speak about one of them. 

Sample:

2. Imagine you are giving an eyewitness account or a running commentary of one of the following: 

(i) a game of football, cricket or hockey, or some sports event (ii) a parade (e.g. Republic Day) or some other national event 

Speak a few sentences narrating what you see and hear. Use the simple present and the present continuous tenses. For example: 

• He passes the ball but Ben gets in the way … 

• These brave soldiers guard our frontiers. They display their skills here …

Sample: 

Writing:

Diary entry for a travelogue

I. The text you read is a travelogue where the author, Vikram Seth, talks about his visit to two sacred places in Kathmandu.

Imagine that you were with Vikram Seth on his visit to Pashupatinath temple, and you were noting down all that you saw and did there so that you could write a travelogue later.

Record in point form

• what you see when you reach the Pashupatinath temple

• what you see happening inside the temple

• what you do when inside the temple

• what you see outside the temple

• what your impressions are about the place?

Sample: 

OR

II. Here is your diary entry when you visited Agra. Read the points and try to write a travelogue describing your visit to Agra and the Taj Mahal. You may add more details.

Sample: 

Extra Questions ‘Kathamndu’ Vikram Seth:

Short Answer Type Questions:

Q1: Describe the atmosphere at Pashupatinath temple as mentioned in the text.

A1: The atmosphere at Pashupatinath temple is chaotic and lively. Priests, hawkers, animals, and worshippers crowd the area. People push to get the priest’s attention. There’s a royal visit, monkeys fighting, and the holy Bagmati River nearby, where rituals and daily activities like cremations, bathing, and washing occur.

Q2: How does the Baudhnath stupa contrast with the Pashupatinath temple?

A2: The Baudhnath stupa is peaceful and calm, unlike the chaos at Pashupatinath. Its massive white dome is surrounded by a road and small shops, mainly run by Tibetan immigrants. The area feels serene and quiet, offering a haven of tranquillity in contrast to Kathmandu’s bustling streets.

Q3: What sights and sounds contribute to the vividness of Kathmandu, according to the author?

A3: Kathmandu has vibrant sights and sounds: shrines with flower-adorned deities, street vendors selling fruits, flutes, and postcards, and shops offering diverse goods. The streets echo with film songs, car horns, bicycle bells, and vendors’ shouts. Even stray cows and motorcycles add to the city’s colourful chaos.

Q4: Why does the author decide to fly home instead of taking a longer route?

A4: The author feels tired and homesick. Although he considers travelling by bus, train, and boat through India, he is too exhausted. It’s the last day of August, and he desires to reach home quickly. This makes him buy a flight ticket for the next day.

Q5: How does the flute seller’s demeanour and activity stand out in the bustling square?

A5: Unlike the noisy, busy square, the flute seller is calm and focused. He plays flutes meditatively, without shouting or actively selling. Occasionally, he interacts with others but seems unconcerned about sales. His peaceful music rises above the chaos, creating a unique, soothing presence in the crowded environment.

Q6: Why does the author find flute music so captivating and universal?

A6: The author feels flute music is close to the human voice, powered by breath and pauses. Every culture has flutes with unique sounds, yet they share a commonality. The music stirs deep emotions and connects humanity through its simplicity, beauty, and ability to evoke personal and universal associations.

Q7: What details about Kathmandu’s streets highlight its mix of mercenary and religious elements?

A7: Kathmandu’s streets have shrines with flower-adorned deities alongside shops selling Western goods, antiques, and local items. Fruit and flute sellers, hawkers, and vendors crowd the streets. Religious symbols mix with commercial activity. The noise of songs, horns, and vendors creates a vibrant, intertwined blend of spirituality and everyday life.

Q8: How does the author describe his indulgences in Kathmandu?

A8: The author enjoys simple pleasures in Kathmandu. He buys marzipan, roasted corn with spices, love story comics, and a Reader’s Digest. He drinks Coca-Cola and a tangy orange drink. These small indulgences bring him comfort, reflecting his desire to relax and enjoy the lively city atmosphere.

Q9: What significance does the author attach to the bansuri and its music?

A9: The author sees the bansuri as a universal instrument that connects cultures. Its music resembles the human voice, powered by breath. The flute’s simplicity and emotional depth move him deeply, reminding him of shared human experiences and offering a sense of harmony amid the city’s chaos.

Q10: What emotions or realisations does the author experience upon hearing familiar phrases on the flute?

A10: Hearing familiar flute music surprises the author. It stirs strong emotions and memories he didn’t expect. Unlike previous travels, he notices small details and invests them with meaning, realising how deeply connected he feels to simple, universal experiences like music, which transcends cultural and personal boundaries.

Q11: What cultural and spiritual contrasts are evident in the descriptions of Pashupatinath temple and Baudhnath stupa?

A11: Pashupatinath is chaotic and crowded with devotees, rituals, and noisy events. It symbolises intense Hindu spirituality. Baudhnath stupa, in contrast, is calm and serene, representing Buddhist peace. These contrasts reflect the cultural diversity of Kathmandu, where energetic Hindu practices coexist with meditative Buddhist traditions in harmony.

Q12: How does the author describe the river Bagmati, symbolising the coexistence of life and death in Kathmandu?

A12: The Bagmati River reflects life and death. Cremations occur on its banks, symbolising the end of life, while washerwomen and children bathing represent daily life’s continuity. Old offerings are dropped into the river, blending sacred rituals with everyday tasks, highlighting Kathmandu’s unique mix of spirituality and practicality.

Long Answer Type Questions:

Q1: Why does the atmosphere contrast between Pashupatinath temple and Baudhnath stupa?

A1: The atmospheres of Pashupatinath temple and Baudhnath stupa contrast because of their different spiritual and cultural environments. At Pashupatinath, the atmosphere is chaotic and lively. 

There are many people, animals, and noises. The place is crowded with devotees, tourists, and vendors, creating a sense of confusion and movement. The presence of a cremation on the banks of the river adds to this intensity.

On the other hand, Baudhnath stupa offers a peaceful and calm environment. The Buddhist shrine is quiet, with no crowds. It is a place of stillness and meditation, away from the busy streets. The contrast highlights the differences between Hindu and Buddhist places of worship and their impact on visitors’ experiences.

Q2: What can you infer about the lifestyle and values of the flute seller?

A2: The flute seller’s lifestyle seems simple, calm, and unhurried. He stands in the square, selling his flutes in a relaxed manner. He doesn’t shout to attract attention or try to market aggressively. 

Instead, he plays his flute slowly, focusing on the music rather than making sales. It suggests that he values the joy of playing music more than making money. His casual interactions with the fruit seller also show that he built a routine connecting him with the community. 

The flute seller’s behaviour reflects a life of contentment and balance, where making music is just as important as his work. He seems focused on the present moment, without rush or stress.

Q3: How does the chapter explore Kathmandu’s spiritual and cultural diversity theme?

A3: The chapter explores Kathmandu’s spiritual and cultural diversity by describing two religious places: Pashupatinath temple and Baudhnath stupa. 

At Pashupatinath, we see Hindu rituals, where people, animals, and vendors mix in a busy, lively atmosphere. The temple is sacred for Hindus, and the chaos reflects the energy and vibrancy of Hindu worship. 

In contrast, the Baudhnath stupa, a Buddhist shrine, offers serenity. There are no crowds, and the place feels still, emphasising the calm nature of Buddhist spirituality. 

Kathmandu’s mixture of Hindu and Buddhist practices shows how different beliefs and cultures exist, each contributing to the city’s rich spiritual life.

Q4: Discuss the juxtaposition of chaos and tranquillity in the narrative.

A4: The narrative contrasts chaos and tranquillity by describing the Pashupatinath temple and the Baudhnath stupa. Pashupatinath is full of energy and noise. Many people, animals, vendors, and religious activities are happening simultaneously. 

The busy atmosphere creates a sense of confusion and excitement. In contrast, Baudhnath stupa is calm and peaceful. It is quiet, with no crowds, and offers a place of stillness. The stupa’s tranquil atmosphere sharply contrasts with the lively chaos at Pashupatinath. 

The juxtaposition highlights the different experiences of spiritual spaces in Kathmandu. It reflects the balance between the bustling, noisy parts of life and the peaceful, reflective moments that can be found in the city.

Q5: Why do you think the author finds removing himself from the flute seller difficult?

A5: The author finds it difficult to leave the flute seller because the music creates a deep emotional connection. The sound of the flute is both simple and universal. 

Flute music comforts the author, connecting him to something greater than himself. The soothing music reminds him of the shared human experience, as flutes exist in many cultures worldwide. The author is drawn to the flute’s natural rhythm and beauty. 

The emotional response is so strong that he becomes absorbed in the moment, making it hard to leave. The flute seller’s peaceful living also adds to the sense of serenity, making the author reluctant to move on.

Q6: How does the description of flute music evoke universal emotions?

A6: The excerpt describes flute music in a way that evokes universal emotions. It highlights its ability to connect people from different cultures. The author explains that every culture has its version of a flute, such as the Indian bansuri or the Japanese shakuhachi. 

Regardless of the variations, the flute produces a consistent sound that fosters a shared emotional experience. The music is calming and touches something deep within people. It speaks to the human voice, with pauses and breaths, making it feel personal and relatable. 

The author feels a strong emotional pull from the music, suggesting that flute music can evoke feelings of peace, nostalgia, and unity regardless of origin.

Q7: Analyse the sensory details used to describe the city of Kathmandu.

A7: The author uses vivid sensory details to bring the city of Kathmandu to life. The sights of crowded streets, temples, and shrines are described, with narrow alleys filled with flower-adorned deities and small shops selling various items. 

The sounds are rich and varied: car horns, bicycle bells, vendors shouting their wares, and hawkers’ cries fill the air. The smell of food, like roasted corn and marzipan, adds to the sensory experience. 

The taste is also present when the author indulges in the food, including a drink of Coca-Cola and a spicy orange drink. These details help readers feel the city’s bustling energy and give a strong sense of what it’s like to be there.

Q8: How does the author’s perspective on travel reflect his emotional state?

A8: The author’s perspective on travel reflects his emotional state of exhaustion and homesickness. At the beginning of the text, he enjoys the excitement of exploring Kathmandu, but his feelings shift as the story progresses. 

In the last paragraph, he decides to return home, feeling tired and emotionally drained. He even mentions that if he were more enthusiastic about travel, he would take a long journey through different cities, but instead, he chooses the easier route—flying home. 

His decision shows that he is no longer motivated by the thrill of adventure but instead feels a deep need for rest and comfort. Vikram Seth’s longing for home influences his choice to stop travelling and return to familiar surroundings.

Important Passages ‘Kathmandu’: 

1. “At Pashupatinath… there is an atmosphere of ‘febrile confusion’.”

Context: Describes the chaotic and vibrant scene at the Hindu temple of Pashupatinath. It highlights the diverse mix of people, animals, and activities, showcasing the energy and fervour of religious rituals. The phrase “febrile confusion” encapsulates the bustling and sacred atmosphere, making it a key observation of the narrator.

2. “A corpse is being cremated on its banks… and the evil period of the Kaliyug will end on earth.”

Context: The lines provide insight into the cultural and spiritual practices associated with the Bagmati River. The cremation rituals, washerwomen’s activities, and mythical beliefs about Kaliyug reflect the intertwining of daily life and spirituality in Kathmandu. It demonstrates the narrator’s detailed and respectful observation of local customs.

3. “At the Baudhnath stupa… this is a haven of quietness in the busy streets around.”

Context: The description contrasts the calmness of the Buddhist Baudhnath stupa with the chaos of Pashupatinath. The stupa symbolises peace and spiritual introspection, offering a serene escape amidst the city’s lively environment. The juxtaposition of these two spaces emphasises Kathmandu’s cultural and spiritual diversity.

4. “Kathmandu is vivid, mercenary, religious… and feel much the better for it.”

Context: The vivid description captures the sensory overload of Kathmandu’s streets—its sights, sounds, and tastes. The narrator’s indulgence in street food, shopping, and music reflects the city’s lively character and his engagement with it. This passage is crucial for understanding the narrator’s connection with Kathmandu.

5. “I look at the flute seller… incidental to his enterprise.”

Context: Vikram Seth observes a flute seller playing melodious tunes amid the city’s chaos. The passage reflects the narrator’s appreciation for music as a universal language and its power to evoke emotions. The flute seller’s calm demeanour contrasts with the noisy surroundings, making this a poignant moment in the narrative.

6. “Flute music always does this to me… closest in its phrases and sentences to the human voice.”

Context: The introspective passage expresses the narrator’s deep emotional connection with flute music. It highlights the instrument’s universal and timeless appeal, linking it to the essence of human expression. This reflection reveals the narrator’s sensitive and artistic nature.

7. “Go home, I tell myself: move directly towards home.”

Context: This moment signifies Vikram Seth’s decision to leave Kathmandu and return home. It reveals his exhaustion, homesickness, and need for familiarity after an immersive cultural experience. Understanding the emotional arc of the travelogue is essential for understanding this passage.