Chapter 6 - My Childhood by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam - Class IX - Beehive - Summary Q&A Solved

Table of Content

1. Summary of the chapter 'My Childhood by APJ Abdul Kalam
2. Word-Meaning of the chapter 'My Childhood by APJ Abdul Kalam
3. Short Question-Answer of the chapter 'My Childhood by APJ Abdul Kalam
4. Long Answer Type Questions of the chapter 'My Childhood by APJ Abdul Kalam
5. Discuss and Answer Questions of the chapter 'My Childhood by APJ Abdul Kalam
6. 20 Multiple Choice Questions(MCQs) of the chapter 'My Childhood by APJ Abdul Kalam

Summary

"My Childhood" is an autobiographical account by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, where he reflects on his early years growing up in Rameswaram, a small town in Tamil Nadu, India. The story highlights the simplicity and humility of his upbringing.

Kalam was born into a middle-class Muslim family. His father, Jainulabdeen, was not formally educated but was wise and generous, while his mother, Ashiamma, was a devout and caring woman. Kalam recalls the strong values instilled in him by his parents, emphasizing honesty, self-discipline, and faith in God.

The story also sheds light on the communal harmony in Rameswaram, where people from different religions lived peacefully together. Kalam had three close friends, all from different religious backgrounds, and this diversity was never a barrier in their friendship.

Kalam's early education was shaped by his teachers, especially his science teacher, who inspired him to dream big. The teacher's encouragement and support played a significant role in shaping Kalam’s aspirations.

The story concludes with a message of unity, tolerance, and the importance of hard work and perseverance in achieving one's goals.

Word Meaning of 'My Childhood'

1. Erstwhile - Former.
2. Generosity - Kindness and willingness to give.
3. Innate - Inborn or natural.
4. Helpmate - A helpful companion or partner.
5. Undistinguished - Not very good-looking or ordinary.
6. Ancestral - Related to ancestors or forefathers.
7. Austere - Simple and strict.
8. Inessential - Not necessary.
9. Necessities - Basic needs or requirements.
10. Secure - Safe.
11. Broke out - Started suddenly.
12. Fetch - Bring.
13. Princely sum - A large amount of money.
14. Orthodox - Traditional or conservative.
15. Discrimination - Unfair treatment based on differences like religion or race.
16. Progressive - Forward-thinking or modern.

Thinking About the Text (Q&A of 'My Childhood')

I. Answer these questions in one or two sentences each.

1. Where was Abdul Kalam’s house?
   Abdul Kalam’s house was on Mosque Street in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu.
2. What do you think Dinamani is the name of? Give a reason for your answer.
   Dinamani is the name of a local newspaper because Abdul Kalam used to read it to follow the news about the Second World War.
3. Who were Abdul Kalam’s school friends? What did they later become?
   Abdul Kalam’s school friends were Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. Ramanadha Sastry became a priest, Aravindan started a business arranging transport for pilgrims, and Sivaprakasan became a catering contractor for the Southern Railways.
4. How did Abdul Kalam earn his first wages?
   Abdul Kalam earned his first wages by helping his cousin distribute newspapers. He collected bundles of newspapers thrown from a moving train.
5. Had he earned any money before that? In what way?
   Yes, Abdul Kalam had earned money before that by collecting and selling tamarind seeds.

II. Answer each of these questions in a short paragraph (about 30 words)

1. How does the author describe: (i) his father, (ii) his mother, (iii) himself?
   (i) Abdul Kalam describes his father as a wise and simple man who led a disciplined life. (ii) His mother is portrayed as a kind and caring woman who supported the family. (iii) He describes himself as a curious and hardworking boy, eager to learn and explore.
2. What characteristics does he say he inherited from his parents?
   Abdul Kalam inherited honesty and self-discipline from his father, and faith in goodness and deep kindness from his mother. These traits shaped his character and guided his actions throughout his life.

III. Discuss these questions in class with your teacher and then write down your answers in two or three paragraphs each.

1. “On the whole, the small society of Rameswaram was very rigid in terms of the segregation of different social groups,” says the author.

(i) Which social groups does he mention? Were these groups easily identifiable (for example, by the way they dressed)?

Abdul Kalam mentions two main social groups in Rameswaram: the orthodox Brahmins and the Muslims. These groups were easily identifiable by their distinct attire and customs. For example, Brahmins wore traditional dhotis and sacred threads, while Muslims wore caps and specific types of clothing that marked their religious identity. This clear distinction in appearance made it easy to identify which group a person belonged to.

(ii) Were they aware only of their differences or did they also naturally share friendships and experiences?

Despite the clear social divisions, people in Rameswaram also shared friendships and experiences. Abdul Kalam’s own life is a testament to this, as he had close friends from different religious backgrounds. They played together, studied together, and shared stories. For instance, Kalam’s family often hosted people from various communities, and his mother would tell bedtime stories that were enjoyed by children of all backgrounds. The pond near his house was a common meeting place where children from different communities would gather and play, showing that friendships transcended social barriers.

(iii) The author speaks both of people who were very aware of the differences among them and those who tried to bridge these differences. Can you identify such people in the text?

In the text, Abdul Kalam mentions people who were very conscious of social differences, such as some of the orthodox Brahmins who adhered strictly to their customs. However, there were also individuals who tried to bridge these gaps. For example, Kalam’s science teacher, Sivasubramania Iyer, was progressive and encouraged Kalam to overcome social barriers. He invited Kalam to his home for a meal, despite the objections of his orthodox wife, demonstrating his belief in equality and unity.

(iv) Narrate two incidents that show how differences can be created, and also how they can be resolved. How can people change their attitudes?

One incident that shows how differences can be created is when a new teacher at Kalam’s school asked him to sit at the back of the class because he was a Muslim. This act of discrimination highlighted the rigid social divisions. However, this situation was resolved when Kalam’s friend, Ramanadha Sastry, and his father, the high priest of the Rameswaram temple, protested against this unfair treatment, leading to the teacher’s removal. Another incident is when Sivasubramania Iyer invited Kalam to his home for a meal. Initially, Iyer’s wife refused to serve Kalam because of his religion, but Iyer himself served Kalam and later convinced his wife to do the same. These incidents show that attitudes can change through education, empathy, and the courage to challenge social norms.

2. (i) Why did Abdul Kalam want to leave Rameswaram?

Abdul Kalam wanted to leave Rameswaram to pursue higher education and better opportunities. He was eager to learn more and expand his horizons, which required him to move to a place with better educational facilities. His ambition and desire to achieve something significant in life drove him to seek education beyond his hometown.

(ii) What did his father say to this?

Abdul Kalam’s father supported his decision to leave Rameswaram. He understood that Kalam needed to go away to grow and fulfil his potential. He compared Kalam to a seagull that flies across the sun, alone and without a nest, emphasizing the importance of independence and self-reliance. He also quoted Khalil Gibran, saying that children are not possessions but individuals with their own thoughts and dreams.

(iii) What do you think his words mean? Why do you think he spoke those words?

Kalam’s father’s words reflect a deep understanding of the need for personal growth and the pursuit of one’s dreams. By comparing Kalam to a seagull, he highlighted the importance of independence and the courage to explore new horizons. His reference to Khalil Gibran’s words about children being independent individuals underscores the idea that parents should support their children’s aspirations without imposing their own limitations. He spoke these words to reassure both Kalam and his mother, encouraging them to embrace the journey ahead with confidence and hope.

20 MCQs on 'My Childhood' by APJ Abdul Kalam

1. Where was A. P. J. Abdul Kalam born?

   • a) Chennai
   • b) Rameswaram
   • c) New Delhi
   • d) Mumbai

2. What was the name of Kalam's father?

   • a) Jainulabdeen
   • b) Abdul Kalam
   • c) Raghavachari
   • d) Lakshmana Sastry

3. Which profession did Kalam's father engage in?

   • a) Fisherman
   • b) Priest
   • c) Boat owner
   • d) Teacher

4. What did Kalam's father possess in abundance?

   • a) Wealth
   • b) Knowledge
   • c) Self-discipline and honesty
   • d) Political power

5. Who was Kalam's close friend from a different religion?

   • a) Ramanadha Sastry
   • b) Sivaprakasan
   • c) Ramakrishna Iyer
   • d) Ahmed Jalaluddin

6. What role did Lakshmana Sastry play in Kalam's life?

   • a) His teacher
   • b) His mentor
   • c) A friend’s father
   • d) A distant relative

7. How did the school headmaster treat young Kalam when he wore a cap that marked him as a Muslim?

   • a) With respect
   • b) Disrespectfully
   • c) Ignored him
   • d) Encouraged him

8. What was Kalam’s first job as a young boy?

   • a) Newspaper delivery boy
   • b) Fisherman’s assistant
   • c) Teacher's assistant
   • d) Shopkeeper

9. What influence did Kalam's father have on him?

   • a) Encouraged him to join politics
   • b) Taught him the value of hard work and integrity
   • c) Guided him in his studies
   • d) Advised him to pursue wealth

10. Which value did Kalam's father emphasize the most?

    • a) Religious rituals
    • b) Pursuit of wealth
    • c) Importance of inner self and spirituality
    • d) Academic excellence

11. How did Kalam describe his childhood home?

    • a) Luxurious and grand
    • b) Simple but full of harmony and happiness
    • c) Small and uncomfortable
    • d) Large and bustling with activity

12. Who motivated Kalam to pursue higher education?

    • a) His mother
    • b) His father
    • c) His teacher
    • d) His sister

13. What significant event changed the lives of people in Rameswaram during Kalam's childhood?

    • a) The onset of World War II
    • b) A natural disaster
    • c) The arrival of a new leader
    • d) A communal conflict

14. Which subject was Kalam particularly interested in during his school days?

    • a) History
    • b) Science
    • c) Mathematics
    • d) Literature

15. What did Kalam and his friends do when the teacher scolded them for sitting together despite belonging to different religions?

    • a) They argued with the teacher
    • b) They refused to obey
    • c) They separated reluctantly
    • d) Their families intervened and resolved the issue

16. What was Kalam’s most prominent trait as a child?

    • a) Rebelliousness
    • b) Curiosity
    • c) Laziness
    • d) Introversion

17. Which form of transportation was prominent in Rameswaram?

    • a) Buses
    • b) Trains
    • c) Boats
    • d) Bullock carts

18. How did Kalam’s family respond to the religious tensions in Rameswaram?

    • a) With fear
    • b) By leaving the town
    • c) By maintaining peace and unity
    • d) By supporting one religious group

19. What was the message of universal love and unity that Kalam’s father shared with him?

    • a) Religion should divide people
    • b) All religions fundamentally teach the same principles
    • c) Science and religion cannot coexist
    • d) Wealth is the most important pursuit in life

20. What did Kalam learn from his parents' simple lifestyle?

    • a) The importance of luxury
    • b) The need for fame
    • c) The value of simplicity, hard work, and self-discipline
    • d) The pursuit of knowledge over everything

Answer Key

1. b) Rameswaram
2. a) Jainulabdeen
3. c) Boat owner
4. c) Self-discipline and honesty
5. a) Ramanadha Sastry
6. c) A friend’s father
7. b) Disrespectfully
8. a) Newspaper delivery boy
9. b) Taught him the value of hard work and integrity
10. c) Importance of inner self and spirituality
11. b) Simple but full of harmony and happiness
12. c) His teacher
13. a) The onset of World War II
14. b) Science
15. c) They separated reluctantly
16. b) Curiosity
17. c) Boats
18. c) By maintaining peace and unity
19. b) All religions fundamentally teach the same principles
20. c) The value of simplicity, hard work, and self-discipline