Bihar Board class 9 English Prose chapter 1 solutions are available here. This is our free guide to answer all the questions asked in chapter 1 – “Dharam Juddha”.
“Dharam Juddha” is the first chapter in the Bihar Board Class 9 English book. Written by Arjun Dev Charan, this story focuses on a young girl named Padma. As Padma grows up, she starts to question the traditional roles and expectations placed on women in society. The chapter, presented in dialogue form, shows how Padma’s thinking changes as she learns more about the world.
Bihar Board Class 9 English Prose Chapter 1 Solutions
Contents
| Subject | English |
| Class | 9th |
| Chapter | 1. Dharam Juddha |
| Author | Arjun Dev Charan |
| Board | Bihar Board |
A. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Q1. What was the question that the Padma wanted to know from her parents?
Ans. Padma wanted to know what defines a woman’s identity and how it’s different from others.
Q2. How many brother and sister did the Padma have?
Ans. Padma was an only child and had no brothers or sisters.
Q3. Why was the Padma unhappy with her father?
Ans. Padma felt her father cared more about making money than spending time with her.
Q4. For whom is life hell according to Padma’s mother?
Ans. According to Padma’s mother, life is very difficult for women who have lost their husbands.
Q5. What, according to the Padma, is the identity of the human race?
Ans. Padma believes that women’s identity is central to the identity of the entire human race.
C. Long Answer Questions.
Q1. ‘Father cares more for money than for me’. Why does the Padma say so? Have you felt like the Padma? Explain.
Ans. Padma says this because she feels her father is too focused on earning money and doesn’t give her enough attention or emotional support. She believes he values his work more than his relationship with her. This is a common feeling among teenagers when parents are very busy with work. Sometimes, young people might feel neglected or less important than their parents’ jobs. It’s natural to want more time and attention from parents. If you’ve ever felt this way, it’s important to talk to your parents about your feelings. Often, parents may not realize how their work affects their children and are willing to make changes when they understand.
Q2. What, according to Padma’s father, is the identity of a woman? Do you agree with him?
Ans. According to Padma’s father, a woman’s identity depends on her marriage and her husband’s status. This is an outdated view that doesn’t reflect the true value and potential of women. A woman’s identity should be based on her own qualities, achievements, and choices, not just on her marital status. Women contribute to society in many ways – as professionals, leaders, caregivers, and more. Their identity comes from their personal growth, skills, and the positive impact they make in their communities. It’s important to recognize that both men and women have equal worth and should have equal opportunities to shape their own identities.
Q3. What question did the Padma ask that her mother calls senseless? Why did Padma’s mother call it senseless? Explain.
Ans. Padma asked her mother, “What if one does not get married?” Her mother called this question senseless because she holds traditional beliefs about marriage. In her view, marriage is essential for a woman’s life and happiness. She probably thinks that staying unmarried is not a good option for women. This reaction shows the difference between older and younger generations’ views on marriage. While Padma’s mother sees marriage as necessary, Padma is questioning this idea. This reflects changing attitudes in society, where more people now see marriage as a choice rather than a requirement for a fulfilling life.
Q4. What is the injustice that the Padma talked about?
Ans. Padma talks about the injustice of believing that a woman’s life is worthless without a husband. She disagrees with the idea that a woman’s identity and happiness depend entirely on her marital status. Padma sees it as unfair that society often judges women based on whether they are married or not, rather than on their individual qualities and achievements. This injustice limits women’s choices and puts unnecessary pressure on them to marry. Padma believes women should be valued for who they are as individuals, not just for their roles as wives.
Q5. Sketch the character of Padma.
Ans. Padma is a young, modern-thinking girl who questions traditional ideas about women’s roles in society. She is observant, intelligent, and not afraid to express her opinions. Padma values education and independence, and she believes in equality between men and women. She often challenges her parents and teachers about women’s rights and identity, showing her strong personality and critical thinking skills. Padma is frustrated by old-fashioned attitudes that limit women’s opportunities and define their worth based on marriage. Her character represents a new generation of young women who are seeking to redefine their place in society and achieve equal rights and opportunities.
Q6. Padma’s mother is the true image of a typical traditional woman. Elaborate,
Ans. Padma’s mother represents a traditional Indian woman who follows long-established customs and beliefs. She values marriage highly and believes a woman’s identity is closely tied to her husband. In her view, a woman without a husband faces great difficulties in life. She doesn’t question her husband’s decisions and thinks women shouldn’t challenge their husbands. Padma’s mother loves her family deeply and sees her role primarily as a wife and mother. While she cares for Padma, she doesn’t understand her daughter’s modern views about women’s independence. Her character shows how older generations often hold onto traditional ideas about women’s roles in society.
Q7. Discuss the main idea contained in the text?
Ans. The main idea in this text is the exploration of a woman’s identity and rights in society. It shows the clash between traditional views and modern thinking about women’s roles. Padma, a young girl with progressive ideas, questions why a woman’s identity should depend on her marriage or husband. She believes women should have their own independent identities and equal rights. The story highlights the ongoing struggle for gender equality, showing how younger generations are challenging old beliefs. It encourages readers to think about what truly defines a person’s worth and identity, regardless of gender.
Q8. Why is the lesson culled “Dharam Juddha”? Give reasons.
Ans. The lesson is called “Dharam Juddha,” which means “righteous war,” because it shows a conflict between old and new ideas about women’s rights. Just like in the Mahabharata, where there was a war for righteousness, here Padma is fighting for what she believes is right – equal rights and independent identity for women. She’s challenging traditional views held by her parents, especially about marriage and a woman’s role in society. This struggle between traditional beliefs and modern thinking about equality is like a moral battle. The title suggests that fighting for women’s rights and equality is a righteous cause, similar to the epic battles in Indian mythology.
A. Work in small groups and discuss the following:-
Q1. What forms the identity of a woman in society?
Ans. A woman’s identity in society is shaped by various factors. These include her education, career, personal achievements, and roles in family and community. In modern India, women have more opportunities to pursue their goals and contribute to society in diverse fields. They work as doctors, teachers, leaders, and even in the military. Women’s identities are also influenced by their individual personalities, skills, and interests. It’s important to recognize that each woman is unique, and her identity should not be limited by stereotypes or traditional expectations.
Q2. How is marriage related to the identity of a woman?
Ans. Marriage can affect a woman’s identity in several ways. Traditionally, women often changed their surnames and moved to their husband’s home after marriage. This sometimes led to a loss of their individual identity. However, modern views are changing. Today, many women keep their surnames or choose hyphenated names. Some couples decide together where to live. While marriage can bring new roles like being a wife or mother, it shouldn’t define a woman’s entire identity. It’s important for women to maintain their personal goals, careers, and individuality within marriage.
Q3. An unmarried man is venerated and called a saint, while an unmarried woman is called immoral and wanton. Is it justified?
Ans. This difference in treatment between unmarried men and women is not justified. It reflects unfair social attitudes that have existed for a long time. These attitudes assume that men who choose to stay single are making a noble choice, while women who do the same are viewed negatively. This double standard is based on outdated and harmful stereotypes about gender roles. In a fair society, people should be respected for their character and actions, not judged based on their marital status. Both men and women should have the freedom to choose whether or not to marry without facing unfair judgments or labels.
Q4. Both men and women are equally important for human society. Do you agree?
Ans. Yes, men and women are equally important for human society. Both genders bring valuable skills, perspectives, and contributions to our world. While men and women may have some different strengths, these differences complement each other and make our society stronger. Women often excel in nurturing and emotional support, while men might be physically stronger. However, these are generalizations, and individual abilities vary. In modern times, we see both men and women succeeding in all kinds of roles – as leaders, caregivers, innovators, and more. A balanced and fair society needs the active participation and respect of both genders to thrive and progress.
Q5. ‘Man and women should have equal rights’. Discuss.
Ans. Men and women should indeed have equal rights in all aspects of life. This means equal opportunities in education, work, and decision-making. In India, laws have been made to ensure equal rights, but changing social attitudes is also important. For example, efforts are being made to stop unfair practices like dowry. While women in cities and from well-off families have seen more progress, many women, especially in rural areas, still face challenges. The government and society need to work together to make sure all women, regardless of their background, can enjoy the same rights and opportunities as men. This equality is crucial for the overall development and progress of our country.
Q6. “The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world”. Elaborate.
Ans. This saying highlights the important role of mothers in shaping the future. As the primary caregivers, mothers often have a strong influence on their children’s values and beliefs. They teach important life lessons and help form a child’s character. This influence extends beyond the home, as these children grow up to become the future leaders, innovators, and citizens of the world. The phrase also recognizes the broader impact of women in society, not just as mothers, but as teachers, leaders, and professionals in various fields. It emphasizes that by nurturing and educating the next generation, women
Q7. ‘Women in India are underprivileged’. Elaborate.
Ans. Despite progress, many women in India still face challenges in accessing equal opportunities. Issues like unequal education, limited job prospects, and unfair treatment at home continue to exist. Harmful practices such as dowry and discrimination against girl children are still problems in some parts of society. While laws protect women’s rights, changing deep-rooted social attitudes takes time. There’s a gap between women in cities and rural areas, with rural women often having fewer opportunities. To address this, it’s important to focus on education for all girls, create more job opportunities for women, and work on changing social attitudes. Empowering women is crucial for India’s overall development and progress.
Comprehension Based Questions with Answers.
Padma: Mother, what is the identity of a woman?
Maa: Why do you ask that?
Padma: How am I different from others?
Maa: You are my daughter, our only child and your . father’s darling.
Padma: Father cares more for money than for me. It takes a heart to bestow love.
Maa: For whom does he save? He does all this only for your sake. You shouldn’t think that I’ve no heart.
Padma: But I didn’t say it of you.
Maa: I am not in any way different from him. My identity is linked with his and I cherish the bond.
Q1. What is the relation between the talkers?
Ans. The talkers are mother and daughter
Q2. Who is the daughter?
Ans. The Padma is the daughter.
Q3. What does she ask her mother?
Ans. She asks from her mother what the identity of a woman is.
Q4. Who is darling and whose?
Ans. The Padma is darling of her father.
Q5. What does the daughter feel about her father?
Ans. The daughter feels that her father cares more for money than for her which takes a heart to bestow love.
Q6. What is the reply of the mother?
Ans. The mother replies that her father saves money for her only daughter, Padma.
Father: What is this talk about the bond, Padma’s mother?
Maa: Here is your father. Ask him whatever you want to know.
Father: What’s it. my child?
Maa: She wants to know what is the identity of a woman.
Father: You will know it, dear, when you are married.
Padma: Does marriage lend identity to a woman?
Maa: What is a woman without a husband?
Padma: What if one does not get married?
Maa: Why do you always ask such senseless questions?
Padma: What about a woman whose husband is dead?
Maa: Life is hell for her.
Padma: That’s injustice!
Q1. Who enters?
Ans. Padma’s fathers enter.
Q2. What does he ask and from whom?
Ans. He asks from Padma’s mother what that talk is about the bond.
Q3. What does the daughter want to know from her father?
Ans. The daughter wants to know from her father what the identity of a woman is.
Q4. What do her fathers reply?
Ans. Her father replies that she would know the fact when she is married.
Q5. Find out from the lesson which means ‘unjust’.
Ans. Injustice.
Maa: You needn’t talk of justice and injustice here.
Padma: Why?
Maa: Over here women don’t have the right to ask questions.
Padma: What right do they have then?
Father: Rights are for equals, dear.
Padma: Why is a home considered a place for bargain¬ing? One shouldn’t live in such a place.
Father: You will get the same replies to these questions wherever you go.
Padma: But the identity of a woman is the identity of the human race. A society sans women…
Father: That’s why they say that marriage lends this identity.
Padma: So if a girl does not get married she has no identity! Why is it that an unmarried man is venerated and called a saint while an unmarried woman is called immoral and wanton?
Q1. ‘A home is like a’… What type of place is, according to the Padma?
Ans. According to Padma a home is considered a place for bargaining!
Q2. Is she considering the house a living place?
Ans. No, such a home is not a living place for the Padma.
Q3. What is the identity of the human race?
Ans. The identity of a woman is the identity of the human race.
Q4. What is the difference between an unmarried man and an unmarried woman?
Ans. An unmarried man is venerated and called a saint but an unmarried woman is called immoral and wanton.
Q5. Find a word in the passage which means ‘unchaste’.
Ans. Wanton.
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