Chapter 6: Glimpses of India
Part I: A Baker from Goa
The elders are nostalgic about the good old Portuguese days and the famous loaves of bread. They fondly remember the bakers (paders) who used to visit their houses twice a day.
Yes, it is still popular. The author mentions that the mixers, moulders, and the furnaces are still there. The traditional jingle of the bamboo sounds can still be heard in many places.
The baker is called a 'pader' in Goa.
Part II: Coorg
Coorg (Kodagu) is the smallest district of Karnataka, situated midway between Mysore and the coastal town of Mangalore.
One story says they are of Greek descent (part of Alexander's army settled there). Another theory is of Arab descent, supported by the long black coat with an embroidered waist-belt worn by the Kodavus, known as Kuppia, which resembles the Kuffia worn by Arabs.
- It is famous for coffee, rainforests, and spices.
- The people are martial and brave. General Cariappa, the first Chief of Indian Army, was a Coorgi.
- The river Kaveri obtains its water from the hills of Coorg.
Part III: Tea from Assam
This is an exercise on compound words.
Example: Downpour (Heavy rain), Dropout (One who quits).
Chinese Legend: An emperor boiled water before drinking. Once, leaves from a burning
twig fell into the water, giving it a delicious flavor.
Indian Legend: Bodhidharma, a monk, cut off his eyelids because he felt sleepy
during meditations. Ten tea plants grew out of the eyelids. The leaves, when put in hot water,
banished sleep.
Grammar Series - Part 6
Topic 1: Tenses Revision (Past & Future)
Simple Past: Action completed in the past. (I went to Goa.)
Past Continuous: Action going on at a certain time in the past. (I was drinking
tea.)
Future Continuous: Action will be in progress at a time in future. (I will be
travelling tomorrow.)
Exercise: Fill in the blanks
- When I reached home, my mother _______ (cook) food. (was cooking)
- We _______ (visit) Coorg last year. (visited)
- At this time tomorrow, I _______ (fly) to Assam. (will be flying)
- He _______ (buy) a new car yesterday. (bought)
Topic 2: Sentence Connectors
Connectors link ideas logically. (However, Therefore, Afterwards, Meanwhile, Consequently).
Usage Examples
Contrast: However, Nevertheless. ("He is poor; however, he is happy.")
Result: Therefore, Thus. ("It rained heavily; therefore, the match was
cancelled.")
Sequence: Firstly, Then, Finally.
Exercise: Choose the connector
- He studied hard; _______ (however/therefore), he failed. (however)
- It was late; _______ (moreover/therefore), we took a taxi. (therefore)
- The tea is hot; _______ (however/moreover), it is tasty. (however - contrast usually, but here 'moreover' if adding positive trait? No, usually contrast: Hot but tasty. Or simple addition: 'moreover'.) Let's say: The tea is expensive; however, it is worth it.
Writing Skills Series - Part 6
1. Article Writing (Topic: Incredible India)
Topic: Promoting Tourism in India.
DISCOVERING THE JEWELS OF INDIA
By XYZ
India is a land of diverse cultures, landscapes, and traditions. From the sun-kissed beaches of Goa to the coffee plantations of Coorg and the rolling tea gardens of Assam, every corner offers a unique experience.
Tourism not only boosts the economy but also promotes cultural exchange. However, we must practice responsible tourism. Preserving the ecological balance of places like Coorg, which is home to rainforests, is crucial.
Let us explore our own country and appreciate the 'Glimpses of India' that make it truly incredible.
2. Informal Letter
Topic: Describing a trip to a friend.
12, M.G. Road
Bangalore
15th May 20XX
Dear Rohan,
How are you? I hope you are
doing well. I am writing this to tell you about my recent trip to Coorg.
It was a mesmerizing experience. The air was filled with the aroma of coffee. We did some trekking and even saw wild elephants! You must visit it sometime. The local people are so hospitable and brave.
Give my regards to your parents.
Yours lovingly,
Rahul