About Glimpses of India
Glimpses of India is a prose piece in the First Flight textbook that introduces readers to different regions of India, each known for its unique cultural heritage and specialties. The prose is divided into three parts, each focusing on a different part of India:
Summary.
The Glimpses of India prose chapter provides readers with a fascinating look into the diverse cultural and geographical landscapes of India, offering three distinct stories that highlight unique regions of the country.
Part 1: A Baker from Goa
Written by Lucio Rodrigues, this part describes the Goan tradition of baking, especially the profession of bakers called *paders*. It highlights the deep cultural influence of the Portuguese on Goa, particularly in the culinary traditions. The author recalls the childhood memories of the bread, known for its distinctive taste and shape, that was sold by bakers in the streets, accompanied by the jingling sound of their bamboo sticks. The *paders* wore a unique attire called *Kabai*, a knee-length frock, and their prosperous lives reflected in their physical stature. This story illustrates the importance of bakers in Goan society, with their breads and sweets playing a major role in the daily lives of the people.
Part 2: Coorg
Written by Lokesh Abrol, this section focuses on Coorg (or Kodagu), a picturesque region in Karnataka known for its coffee plantations, evergreen forests, and spices. Coorg is not only a tourist destination but also a place rich in culture and history. The author describes the independence of the Coorgi people, their unique attire (such as the Kuppia, a black coat resembling Arab attire), and their bravery, highlighting the region’s significant contribution to the Indian Army. The area is a source of water for the Cauvery River, and visitors are drawn to its natural beauty, wildlife, and adventure sports opportunities.
Part 3: Tea from Assam
In this part, written by Arup Kumar Datta, the story follows two friends, Rajvir and Pranjol, who travel to Assam, known for its vast tea plantations. The story delves into the global significance of tea and its cultural ties to Assam. Rajvir educates Pranjol on the history of tea, including the Chinese legend and the Indian legend of Bodhidharma, a Buddhist monk who is said to have grown tea plants from his eyelids. As the friends visit the Dhekiabari Tea Estate, they witness the tea-plucking process, with workers using bamboo baskets and wearing plastic aprons. This section highlights the significance of Assam’s tea industry and the knowledge required to understand the nuances of tea cultivation.
Conclusion of Glimpses of India
The chapter Glimpses of India provides readers with insights into the distinct characteristics, traditions, and specialties of different regions in India. From the Goan bakers and Coorg’s coffee plantations to Assam’s tea gardens, the chapter encourages an appreciation of India’s natural beauty and cultural diversity. It serves as a reminder that there are many hidden gems within India that are worth exploring before venturing abroad.
Summary
The poem highlights the destructive impact of human actions on nature, particularly trees, and emphasizes the importance of freedom for all living beings, including trees. The poetess points out how humans have cut down trees for selfish purposes, such as urbanization and fulfilling personal needs, which leads to the destruction of forests. She also criticizes the practice of keeping trees confined within the walls of homes, suggesting that this is unnatural, as trees belong in forests where they can grow freely.
Through this poem, the poetess conveys a powerful message about respecting nature’s balance. Just as trees thrive in the open space of a forest, humans too must recognize the need for freedom and respect the natural world. By following the rules of nature, rather than trying to dominate or control it, we can preserve the environment and allow all creatures, including trees, to live as they are meant to.
The poem calls for a deeper understanding of nature’s cycles and urges humans to change their ways by protecting and nurturing the natural world, ensuring that trees and all living beings can continue to flourish in their natural habitats.