Chapter 5                            5. Social Issues


1.What do the above lines talk about?

Answer: The lines you’ve mentioned are from Rabindranath Tagore's "Gitanjali". Specifically, they reflect a vision of unity and harmony in the world, free from divisions caused by narrow boundaries or prejudices.

Meaning:

In these lines, Tagore is praying for a world where there are no social, cultural, or political divisions, such as the narrow domestic walls that separate people based on differences like religion, caste, or nationality. He envisions a world where people live in peace, freedom, and equality—a kind of heavenly society where all individuals can thrive together.

The phrase “into that heaven, my Father, let my country awake” expresses his deep desire for his own country, and by extension, the entire world, to awaken to this ideal of unity and freedom, free from division and strife.

Relation to Social Evils:

In the context of social evils, Tagore’s vision can be interpreted as a call for liberation from the barriers created by social injustices such as casteism, communalism, and discrimination. These social evils are the "narrow domestic walls" he refers to, which hinder progress and development in society. The removal of such evils will lead to a more inclusive and prosperous world where everyone has the freedom to grow and flourish, just like the ideal world Tagore dreams of.

2. What does the expression 'the narrow domestic walls' mean?

Answer: The expression "the narrow domestic walls" in Rabindranath Tagore's poem symbolizes the artificial barriers or divisions that people create between themselves. These walls can be:

  1. Cultural or Social Divisions: These might include differences in religion, caste, or ethnicity, which divide people within a society, creating a sense of separation and exclusion.

  2. Political Boundaries: Tagore could also be referring to the political divisions that exist between nations, regions, or communities, which prevent people from working together harmoniously.

  3. Mental and Emotional Barriers: More abstractly, these "walls" can represent prejudices, narrow-mindedness, and intolerance, which prevent people from understanding and empathizing with one another.

Overall Meaning:

Tagore is urging for a world where these narrow walls of division are broken down, leading to a more unified and peaceful world. He envisions a society where people are not constrained by superficial boundaries, but instead are free to live in harmony and mutual respect.

    The expression "the narrow domestic walls" in Rabindranath Tagore's poem symbolizes the artificial barriers or divisions that people create between themselves. These walls can be:

  1. Cultural or Social Divisions: These might include differences in religion, caste, or ethnicity, which divide people within a society, creating a sense of separation and exclusion.

  2. Political Boundaries: Tagore could also be referring to the political divisions that exist between nations, regions, or communities, which prevent people from working together harmoniously.

  3. Mental and Emotional Barriers: More abstractly, these "walls" can represent prejudices, narrow-mindedness, and intolerance, which prevent people from understanding and empathizing with one another.

Overall Meaning:

Tagore is urging for a world where these narrow walls of division are broken down, leading to a more unified and peaceful world. He envisions a society where people are not constrained by superficial boundaries, but instead are free to live in harmony and mutual respect.

The expression "the narrow domestic walls" in Rabindranath Tagore's poem symbolizes the artificial barriers or divisions that people create between themselves. These walls can be:

  1. Cultural or Social Divisions: These might include differences in religion, caste, or ethnicity, which divide people within a society, creating a sense of separation and exclusion.

  2. Political Boundaries: Tagore could also be referring to the political divisions that exist between nations, regions, or communities, which prevent people from working together harmoniously.

  3. Mental and Emotional Barriers: More abstractly, these "walls" can represent prejudices, narrow-mindedness, and intolerance, which prevent people from understanding and empathizing with one another.

Overall Meaning:

Tagore is urging for a world where these narrow walls of division are broken down, leading to a more unified and peaceful world. He envisions a society where people are not constrained by superficial boundaries, but instead are free to live in harmony and mutual respect.

                                                The Storeyed House - I

. Answer the following questions.

1. Who was Bayaji? Where did he work?

Answer: Bayaji was a retired worker belonging to the Mahar (Dalit) community. He had worked honestly for thirty-five years in the dockyard in Bombay (now Mumbai), where he mostly did hard physical labor like lifting heavy loads. In the last two years of his service, he was promoted to the position of supervisor before retiring and returning to his village.

2. Why did Bayaji return home?

Answer: Bayaji returned home because he had retired from his job at the dockyard in Bombay after thirty-five years of service. Since there was no longer any reason to stay in the city, he decided to go back to his native village to spend the rest of his life peacefully with his family.

3. "Greetings to you, sir, how are things with you?" Bayaji greeted Bhujaba. Bhujaba became furious. Why did Bhujaba become furious? Do you think this is unusual?

Answer: Bhujaba became furious because Bayaji, who belonged to the Mahar (Dalit) community, greeted him with a simple "Greetings to you, sir" instead of the traditional, submissive greeting expected from someone of a lower caste — something like “My humble salutations to you, sir, who are my father and mother.” Bhujaba viewed Bayaji’s dignified greeting as disrespectful and arrogant, especially since Bayaji had converted to Buddhism and no longer followed the caste-based customs.

Yes, this reaction is unusual and unfair in a modern, respectful society. Bayaji was simply being polite and treating Bhujaba as an equal. But due to deep-rooted caste discrimination, Bhujaba felt threatened by this equality and reacted with hostility — highlighting the social evils of casteism and how they prevent mutual respect and dignity.

4. Why was Bayaji tempted to knock down Bhujaba with his box?

Answer: Bayaji was tempted to knock down Bhujaba with his box because he felt insulted and humiliated by Bhujaba's angry and casteist reaction to his polite greeting. Bhujaba mocked Bayaji for trying to act like a Brahmin and reminded him of his lower-caste roots, despite Bayaji’s conversion to Buddhism and his return as a respected, retired worker.

This unjust treatment triggered a natural impulse of anger in Bayaji, especially because he had worked hard all his life and expected to be treated with dignity. However, he restrained himself because he knew he was back in his village to live out the rest of his life, and picking a fight with a powerful man like Bhujaba could lead to long-term trouble. This shows Bayaji’s maturity, patience, and understanding of the social realities he had to navigate.

5. Why do you think Bhujaba insisted on knowing the exact amount received by Bayaji on his retirement?

Answer: Bhujaba insisted on knowing the exact amount Bayaji received on his retirement because he was driven by jealousy, a sense of superiority, and a desire to maintain control over lower-caste individuals like Bayaji. Being the village headman and from a dominant caste, Bhujaba likely felt threatened by Bayaji’s financial independence and return with dignity after working in the city.

By asking about the money, he wanted to assess Bayaji’s social and economic rise, possibly to humiliate him or find a way to keep him in his “place.” Bhujaba’s insistence reflects the deep-rooted caste-based prejudice and insecurity about losing authority over those considered socially inferior. It also shows his nosy and condescending nature, which is typical of people who cannot tolerate the progress of those they look down upon.

6. What was Bayaji's dream?

Answer: Bayaji's dream was to build a spacious, storeyed house for his large family using his hard-earned retirement money. He wanted the house to be comfortable enough so that everyone could live together without having to eat in turns or sit crowded, "knocking knees together." For Bayaji, this house was not just a structure—it was a symbol of dignity, progress, and security for his family. He believed that instead of bringing material gifts that would fade, this house would be something lasting and meaningful, a legacy from his years of honest, hard labor.

Bayaji's dream was to build a spacious, storeyed house for his large family using his hard-earned retirement money. He wanted the house to be comfortable enough so that everyone could live together without having to eat in turns or sit crowded, "knocking knees together." For Bayaji, this house was not just a structure—it was a symbol of dignity, progress, and security for his family. He believed that instead of bringing material gifts that would fade, this house would be something lasting and meaningful, a legacy from his years of honest, hard labor.

                                        The Storeyed House - II

I. Answer the following questions.

1. How did Kondiba oppose Bayaji's idea of building a storeyed house? In what way did he warn Bayaji? How did Bayaji change his plan?

Answer: Kondiba strongly opposed Bayaji's idea of building a storeyed house, seeing it as an affront to the traditional hierarchy and social norms. He warned Bayaji that an untouchable like him should not aspire to challenge the established social order by constructing a house that would rival those of the higher castes. Kondiba told Bayaji that he could build a smaller, more conventional three-portioned house but should not overstep his boundaries by building a storeyed house.

Bayaji, initially hesitant but determined, was ultimately frightened by the threats from Kondiba and other villagers. Fearing the consequences of defying the higher castes, Bayaji reluctantly abandoned his plans for the storeyed house. Instead, he proceeded with the construction of a more traditional three-portioned house, though he did manage to make some changes, such as adding a small first storey that was not easily visible from the outside. This way, he made the best of the situation while maintaining some of his original vision.

2. Kondiba Patil and his friends felt uneasy at the sight of Bayaji's new house because

a) Bayaji built the house beautifully.

b) the house was not built properly.

c) the rooms were unclean.

d) they felt that Bayaji should not be in the village.

Answer: The correct answer is:

d) they felt that Bayaji should not be in the village.

Kondiba Patil and his friends felt uneasy at the sight of Bayaji's new house because they believed that an untouchable like Bayaji should not be building such a grand house, especially a storeyed one, which they saw as a challenge to the established social order.

3. Patil gave back the customary betel leaves offered by Bayaji because.

a) they were bad.

b) it was their custom.

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c) he felt that they were unnecessary,

d) he did not want to accept them from an untouchable.

Answer: The correct answer is:

d) he did not want to accept them from an untouchable.

Patil gave back the customary betel leaves offered by Bayaji because, as a high-caste individual, he was uncomfortable accepting them from an untouchable, reflecting the deep-rooted caste-based prejudices of that time.

4. What was the intention of Kondiba and his companions, when they eyed each other?

Answer: When Kondiba and his companions eyed each other, their intention was to convey that they felt Bayaji, an untouchable, had become too proud or "swollen-headed" for his own good. They were uncomfortable with the fact that Bayaji, who belonged to a lower caste, had dared to build a storeyed house and seemed to be challenging the social norms of the village. This exchange reflected their intention to teach Bayaji a lesson and remind him of his "place" in society.

5. "And then the undreamt-of-incident took place". What was it? Who do you think was responsible for it?

Answer: The "undreamt-of incident" was the sudden fire that broke out in Bayaji's new house during the housewarming ceremony. The fire engulfed the house, destroying it and leaving Bayaji trapped inside. In his frantic attempt to save his house, Bayaji was severely burned and eventually died from his injuries.

The responsibility for the fire is implied to lie with Bayaji's enemies, particularly the higher-caste individuals like Kondiba Patil and his companions, who were unhappy with Bayaji's success and defiance of social norms. They felt threatened by his rise and may have sought to sabotage his happiness. Though it is not explicitly stated, the fire could have been intentionally set as an act of revenge against Bayaji for building a storeyed house, which was considered inappropriate for someone of his caste. 

6. 'Bayaji's death was the result of an accident due to petromax flare-up,' was their conclusion. Do you accept it? If not, what do you think is the truth?

Answer: I do not accept the conclusion that Bayaji's death was merely the result of a petromax flare-up. While the official report attributes his death to an accident, it seems more likely that there were external forces at play. Given the context of Bayaji's struggle to assert his social and economic standing, the animosity he faced from people like Kondiba Patil and his companions, and the subsequent fire that destroyed his house, it's reasonable to believe that the fire may have been intentionally set as an act of retaliation.

The fire happened during the housewarming ceremony, and the way the events unfolded suggests that it could have been a deliberate attempt to ruin Bayaji’s success and punish him for challenging the social hierarchy by building a storeyed house. The description of the unease and hostility from the higher-caste individuals towards Bayaji's new house further supports the idea that his death might have been orchestrated by those who saw his rise as a threat to their social order.

Thus, the official explanation seems to be an attempt to cover up the true cause, which may have been a carefully planned act of sabotage.

7. Comment on Bayaji's last wish: 'Sons, I want you to build a storeyed house."

Answer: Bayaji's last wish, "Sons, I want you to build a storeyed house," is deeply symbolic and poignant. It reveals his enduring desire for social progress and dignity, even in the face of death. After all the struggles he faced—being an untouchable and working tirelessly in a laborious job for over three decades—Bayaji's wish was not for material wealth or personal comfort but for something that would challenge the social constraints imposed upon him and his family.

The storeyed house represents more than just a physical structure. For Bayaji, it symbolized a break from the traditional caste-based limitations. The act of building a house, particularly a storeyed one, was an assertion of his newfound identity as a Buddhist and his desire to assert equality. It was an attempt to defy the discriminatory social norms that relegated him to the margins of society.

His last wish also reflects a sense of hope for the future, as he entrusts his sons with the task of fulfilling it. In that moment, Bayaji's desire for his family to rise above the oppressive conditions of their past transcended his own death. It was a symbol of his dreams for a better life for the next generation, even if he himself could not witness it.

Bayaji’s death, therefore, underscores the tragedy of his life—his aspirations for social equality were thwarted by those in power, but in his final wish, he passed on the mantle of resistance to his sons. His last words express the unyielding human desire to build a life of dignity and equality, despite the forces working against it.

8. 'We're starting on a house, not one with a concealed first floor but a regular two-storeyed house." What is the significance of this sentence?

Answer: The sentence "We're starting on a house, not one with a concealed first floor but a regular two-storeyed house" carries deep symbolic significance in the context of the story.

  1. Assertion of Equality and Dignity: Throughout the story, Bayaji's aspiration to build a storeyed house is symbolic of his desire to break free from the oppressive social hierarchy that relegates him to the status of an untouchable. Initially, due to the pressure and threats from the upper-caste people, Bayaji had to settle for a "concealed first floor"—a hidden, secretive elevation that no one could visibly perceive. This concealed floor represented his attempt to assert himself within the boundaries of the rigid caste system, but in a subtle, indirect way.

  2. Defiance of Social Norms: The decision by Bayaji's sons to start building a "regular two-storeyed house" after his death is an outright defiance of the oppressive social system. They are no longer hiding their progress or achievements out of fear. A "regular" house signifies transparency and equality—it’s no longer hidden or compromised. The sons are openly rejecting the social constraints that once forced Bayaji to hide his progress, and instead, they are proudly continuing his legacy.

  3. A Symbol of Unfulfilled Dreams and Legacy: For Bayaji, his death marked the end of his personal dream of building a storeyed house. However, his sons, in continuing the project, are ensuring that his dream lives on. This sentence signifies the passing of Bayaji's hope for social change onto his children. The "regular two-storeyed house" symbolizes the unbroken chain of his aspirations and the fulfillment of his wishes, despite the adversity he faced.

  4. A New Beginning: This decision marks a new beginning for the family. It represents a clear step forward in rejecting the old, concealed ways of living under social oppression. They are now building a house that is open, visible, and unapologetic about its progress, embodying a future where the family can live freely, without fear or shame.

In short, the statement highlights the triumph of Bayaji's dreams through his children. The new house symbolizes not just physical shelter, but also the hope for a brighter, more equal future, free from the constraints imposed by caste and social stigma.

9. The Storeyed House is a powerful symbol of Dalit empowerment in India. Comment.

Answer: The Storeyed House as a Symbol of Dalit Empowerment in India

In The Storeyed House, the house that Bayaji dreams of building and that his children ultimately pursue after his death is a powerful symbol of Dalit empowerment, reflecting the struggles and aspirations of the marginalized communities in India, particularly the Dalits (formerly known as "untouchables"). The house represents more than just a physical structure; it embodies the desire for dignity, equality, social mobility, and the defiance of centuries-old caste-based oppression.

1. A Break from Caste-based Oppression

The idea of a storeyed house itself challenges the rigid social structure that limits the aspirations of Dalits. In traditional Indian society, Dalits were assigned the lowest positions, living in separate areas from the upper castes, often in small, makeshift dwellings. The storeyed house, with its visible and elevated structure, defies this limitation. By aspiring to build a storeyed house, Bayaji not only seeks physical comfort but also strives for social equality. The house becomes a metaphor for breaking free from the invisible shackles of caste-based oppression.

2. Assertion of Identity and Social Status

Bayaji's dream is not simply to have a place to live; he wants a house that represents his self-worth and the recognition of his hard work. The storeyed house is a symbol of the recognition he seeks for the labor he has put in throughout his life, especially in the dockyard. The house is meant to be a public declaration of his dignity and identity, signaling that even Dalits deserve to live with respect and pride. By building the house, Bayaji hopes to be seen as an equal by society, challenging the traditional social hierarchy that has historically marginalized him.

3. Resistance to Social Norms

Bayaji’s desire to build a storeyed house also reflects his resistance to the norms imposed by the upper-caste society. When Kondiba Patil warns him that building such a house would be viewed as an act of defiance and that he should "remain in his position," Bayaji is forced to abandon his plan. However, after his death, his children take up his dream and decide to build the storeyed house without concealing it. This act of defiance highlights the rejection of social boundaries and restrictions placed on Dalits. It symbolizes the empowerment of the next generation who refuses to be limited by caste.

4. Continuity of Struggle and Legacy

After Bayaji’s tragic death, the decision of his sons to continue building the storeyed house symbolizes the continuity of the struggle for Dalit empowerment. The house becomes a legacy of Bayaji’s dream, representing the inheritance of his hopes, struggles, and resistance. When the sons say, “We’re starting on a house, not one with a concealed first floor but a regular two-storeyed house,” it signifies their determination to stand openly and proudly against the status quo. They are no longer hiding or compromising—they are claiming their space and asserting their rights in society.

5. Materializing Social Change

The storeyed house is symbolic of the possibility of upward mobility for Dalits. It represents the potential for Dalits to rise above their assigned lower status and attain greater social and economic status. The house is an expression of Bayaji’s belief that through hard work, one can achieve a sense of security, dignity, and equality. The very act of building a house that stands tall is an assertion that Dalits too deserve to live in the same way as the upper castes, with equal rights and opportunities.

6. Impact on the Dalit Community

The story of the storeyed house would resonate with many in the Dalit community who have long been oppressed and relegated to the margins of society. The symbolism of the house reflects the collective aspirations of Dalits to rise above the systemic injustices they face. The storeyed house becomes a symbol of hope, a dream for a future where Dalits are no longer restricted by their caste identity. The persistence of Bayaji's sons in continuing to build the house after his death suggests a generational shift toward greater resistance and empowerment within the Dalit community.

10. What, according to you, are the major social problems in India?

Answer: India, as a diverse and rapidly developing nation, faces a variety of social problems that affect millions of its citizens. These problems are complex and interconnected, deeply rooted in historical, cultural, economic, and political factors. Here are some of the major social issues in India:

1. Caste-based Discrimination

Despite the abolition of untouchability by law, caste-based discrimination continues to be a pervasive problem in India. Dalits (previously known as "untouchables") and other lower-caste communities face social exclusion, violence, and economic marginalization. The caste system, which historically determined one's social status, occupation, and rights, continues to influence social interactions, access to resources, and opportunities in education, employment, and politics.

2. Poverty and Economic Inequality

Poverty remains one of the most pressing issues in India. A significant portion of the population still lives below the poverty line, struggling to meet basic needs like food, healthcare, and education. Economic inequality is also a major concern, with a wide gap between the rich and the poor. While the country has made progress in terms of GDP growth, the benefits of this growth have not been equally distributed, leading to disparities in income, living standards, and access to opportunities.

3. Unemployment and Underemployment

Unemployment, particularly among the youth, is a major challenge in India. The rapid growth of the population has not been matched by sufficient job creation, leading to a high level of joblessness and underemployment. Many educated individuals struggle to find employment that matches their skills, while others are forced to work in low-paying, insecure jobs. The lack of quality jobs, along with insufficient skill development, has contributed to widespread economic insecurity.

4. Gender Inequality and Violence Against Women

Gender inequality continues to be a significant issue in India. Women, particularly in rural areas, often face discrimination in terms of education, employment, and inheritance rights. Violence against women, including domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking, remains prevalent. Cultural norms and patriarchy continue to restrict women's freedom and opportunities. Despite efforts to address these issues through laws and campaigns, progress has been slow.

5. Corruption

Corruption is a deep-rooted problem in India, affecting various levels of government, public institutions, and private enterprises. The misuse of power for personal gain leads to inefficiency, injustice, and loss of public trust in institutions. Corruption hampers economic development, deprives citizens of basic services, and perpetuates inequality. While there have been efforts to combat corruption, including initiatives like the Right to Information Act, it remains a persistent issue.

6. Access to Quality Education

Access to quality education is still a significant challenge in India, particularly in rural areas and among marginalized communities. Despite the government's efforts to improve education through schemes like the Right to Education Act, the quality of education remains poor in many regions, with outdated curricula, inadequate infrastructure, and undertrained teachers. Additionally, there is a wide gap in education access based on socio-economic status, caste, and gender.

7. Healthcare and Public Health Issues

India's healthcare system faces numerous challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of medical professionals, and limited access to quality healthcare in rural and remote areas. The country also struggles with a high burden of diseases, including communicable diseases like tuberculosis and malaria, as well as non-communicable diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Public health initiatives are often underfunded and face challenges in reaching marginalized populations.

8. Religious Intolerance and Communal Tensions

India is home to diverse religious communities, including Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, and others. However, religious intolerance and communal violence continue to be a major concern. Tensions between different religious groups have often resulted in riots, violence, and discrimination. The politicization of religion and the rise of religious extremism have also contributed to societal divisions, undermining India's secular fabric.

9. Environmental Degradation

Environmental issues, such as air and water pollution, deforestation, and the depletion of natural resources, pose significant challenges to India's sustainable development. Rapid industrialization, urbanization, and population growth have contributed to environmental degradation, affecting public health, agriculture, and overall quality of life. Climate change, with its impact on agriculture, water resources, and natural disasters, adds to the urgency of addressing environmental concerns.

10. Child Labor and Exploitation

Child labor remains a significant issue in India, particularly in industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and domestic work. Many children are forced to work in hazardous conditions, often at the expense of their education and well-being. The lack of enforcement of labor laws and poverty in rural areas contribute to the continued prevalence of child labor. Exploitation of children for sexual trafficking and other forms of abuse also remains a grave concern.

11. Rural-Urban Divide

There is a stark contrast between urban and rural areas in India in terms of infrastructure, education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. While cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore have seen rapid urbanization and economic growth, many rural areas continue to face challenges like poor roads, inadequate healthcare, and limited access to clean water and sanitation. This rural-urban divide exacerbates social inequality and limits opportunities for people living in rural areas.

12. Human Rights Violations

Human rights violations, including police brutality, arbitrary arrests, and violations of the rights of marginalized groups such as Dalits, Adivasis (indigenous tribes), and religious minorities, continue to be a problem. These violations are often exacerbated by political and social factors, and the justice system sometimes fails to hold perpetrators accountable. The lack of adequate legal protections for vulnerable communities further contributes to this issue.

11. What is the conflict in the story? Which is the turning point?

Answer: The conflict in the story of The Storeyed House revolves around Bayaji's aspiration to build a storeyed house, a symbol of his success and an attempt to break away from the oppressive social structure that marginalizes Dalits. Bayaji, a man from the Dalit community, faces immense resistance from the higher-caste individuals in the village, particularly from Kondiba Patil and his companions. They believe that such a move—building a storeyed house—is not acceptable for someone of Bayaji's caste, and they perceive it as a challenge to their established social hierarchy. The tension arises from the clash between Bayaji's desire for upward mobility and the deeply ingrained caste discrimination and social norms that attempt to suppress this ambition.

The turning point in the story comes when Bayaji's house catches fire, an incident that drastically alters the course of events. The fire, which destroys Bayaji's dream of a storeyed house, is strongly implied to have been intentionally set by his enemies, particularly Kondiba and his associates, as an act of retaliation. The fire leads to Bayaji's tragic death, leaving his family in grief. However, even in the face of such tragedy, Bayaji's sons decide to continue his dream, marking the moment when they begin to dig the foundation for a new two-storeyed house. This act symbolizes the resilience and determination to carry forward the struggle for social equality and empowerment, despite the destruction that Bayaji faced.

In summary, the conflict is centered on the caste-based oppression and resistance to Bayaji's dream, while the turning point is the fire that destroys Bayaji's house, setting the stage for his sons to rise above the societal limitations and pursue the dream of a storeyed house as a symbol of Dalit empowerment.

12. What is the point of view of the writer? Pick out evidence from the story in support of your answer.

Answer: The point of view of the writer, Waman Govind Hoval, in The Storeyed House is that of a sympathetic narrator who highlights the plight of the Dalit community while also portraying the struggles for social justice and empowerment. The writer uses the character of Bayaji, a retired worker from the Dalit community, to explore themes of caste discrimination, ambition, and the clash between tradition and progress.

Evidence from the story supporting this point of view:

  1. Sympathy for Dalit struggles:

    • The writer emphasizes Bayaji’s long years of honest labor, working hard in the dockyard, but his dreams were constrained by the rigid caste system. The description of Bayaji’s work in the dockyard, his years of service, and his humble ambition to build a better life with his retirement savings reflect the deep-seated societal constraints that Dalits faced.

    • The story also highlights the unfair treatment that Bayaji faces from the higher-caste people, particularly Kondiba Patil, who feels threatened by the idea of a Dalit building a storeyed house. Bayaji’s desire for a better life is seen as a challenge to the established order, and the narrative invites sympathy for the oppression Bayaji faces.

  2. The irony of caste-based oppression:

    • Bayaji's attempts to assert his dignity by building a house are met with resistance and even violence. The writer presents the hypocrisy and cruelty of the upper-caste characters, such as Kondiba Patil, who advises Bayaji to remain content with a small, conventional house. This is not just a critique of individual characters but of the entire caste system that seeks to suppress any progress made by Dalits.

    • The deliberate act of setting the house on fire by the higher-caste characters is presented as a vindictive act to suppress Bayaji's progress and dreams. The writer does not shy away from showing the brutality of this act, making it clear that the higher-caste characters are willing to go to extreme lengths to maintain the status quo.

  3. Resilience of the Dalit community:

    • After the tragedy of the fire and Bayaji's death, the writer shows the resilience and determination of his sons, who, despite the immense grief, decide to build the house that Bayaji had dreamt of. The narrative ends on a hopeful note, showing that the struggle for empowerment continues even after tragedy strikes. Bayaji’s death becomes a symbol of the sacrifice needed to challenge oppressive systems, and the sons’ decision to continue his dream signifies the ongoing fight for social justice.

13. The sons decided to build a storeyed house soon after the death of their father. What does this act of the sons signify?

Answer: The sons' decision to build a storeyed house soon after the death of their father, Bayaji, signifies a powerful act of defiance and empowerment. It reflects several key themes in the story:

  1. Continuation of Bayaji's Dream: Bayaji's last wish was for his sons to build a storeyed house, symbolizing his desire for progress, dignity, and a better life for his family, despite the challenges of caste discrimination. By fulfilling this wish, his sons not only honor his memory but also carry forward his aspirations of upward mobility.

  2. Defiance against Caste Oppression: The act of building a storeyed house after Bayaji’s death represents a challenge to the rigid caste hierarchy that had oppressed their family. Throughout the story, the higher-caste characters, like Kondiba Patil, had resisted Bayaji’s attempt to build a storeyed house, seeing it as a threat to their established social order. By deciding to build the house, the sons are making a statement that they will not let their caste define their worth or their future.

  3. Assertion of Dalit Identity and Rights: The storeyed house becomes a symbol of Dalit empowerment. In a society that had historically denied them basic rights, the sons' decision to build a two-storeyed house is a declaration of their right to dignity, equality, and progress. It is an assertion that they are not bound by the limitations imposed by their caste but will strive to create a better life for themselves and future generations.

  4. A New Beginning: The act signifies a rebirth of sorts for the family. Although Bayaji's dream of a storeyed house ended tragically in fire, his sons decide to begin anew, turning their grief and loss into a powerful act of resilience and determination. It represents a shift from the past of oppression and suffering to a future where they can build something lasting and meaningful.

  5. Breaking of Traditional Boundaries: By choosing to build a regular two-storeyed house and not one with a concealed first floor, the sons reject the compromise that Bayaji had to make in the face of social pressure. They aim for a fully visible and unapologetic assertion of their right to space, respect, and self-worth.

14. What according to you is the underlying theme of the story, "The Storeyed House'? Substantiate your view point with instances quoting from the story.

Answer: The underlying theme of the story "The Storeyed House" is Dalit empowerment and the struggle for dignity and social equality. The narrative explores how individuals from marginalized communities, like Bayaji and his family, struggle against social hierarchies and oppressive structures to achieve a better life. Through the metaphor of the storeyed house, the story critiques caste-based discrimination and highlights the importance of self-respect, identity, and the need to break free from societal constraints.

Here are some instances from the story that substantiate this viewpoint:

  1. Bayaji’s Dream of Building a Storeyed House:

    • Bayaji’s desire to build a storeyed house is symbolic of his longing for dignity and upward mobility. The house represents more than just a physical structure; it symbolizes his aspirations to break away from the confines of his caste identity and the impoverished conditions that Dalits were often subjected to. When Bayaji says, “Out of my earnings I wish you to have something that'll last longer,” he is not just talking about material wealth, but about leaving a lasting legacy of dignity and respect for his family.

  2. Opposition from the Higher Castes (Kondiba Patil and others):

    • Kondiba Patil, a member of the higher caste, opposes Bayaji’s dream of a storeyed house, warning him to remain "in his position." He says, "You may go in for a storeyed house only if you don't wish to stay in this village." This reflects the deep-seated caste prejudice that exists in society, where the higher castes are uncomfortable with the idea of Dalits aspiring to the same social status and privileges. The pressure Bayaji faces from people like Patil shows how deeply ingrained caste discrimination is and how it tries to suppress any effort of upward mobility by Dalits.

  3. Bayaji’s Sacrifice and His Unfinished Dream:

    • Bayaji's determination to build the house, despite all the opposition, is an act of resistance against the caste system. However, due to the fire caused by those who felt threatened by his ambition, Bayaji dies before he can see his dream fulfilled. His last wish, "Sons, I want you to build a storeyed house," underscores the ongoing desire for empowerment even in death. The fact that he died without realizing his dream symbolizes how Dalits were often denied the chance to achieve their goals due to societal barriers.

  4. The Sons’ Decision to Fulfill Bayaji’s Dream:

    • After Bayaji's death, his sons resolve to continue his dream and build the storeyed house, now with greater determination. They decide to build not just a concealed first floor, but a full-fledged two-storeyed house, as stated by the eldest son: “We're starting on a house, not one with a concealed first floor but a regular two-storeyed house.” This act symbolizes their rejection of compromise and their bold decision to assert their right to dignity and equality, despite the challenges and opposition they face. Their action is a direct defiance against the traditional boundaries imposed by caste, signaling their intent to break free from the social constraints that have held their family down.

  5. The Storeyed House as a Symbol of Dalit Empowerment:

    • The storeyed house is not just a physical structure but a symbol of Dalit empowerment. Throughout the story, the house represents more than just the family’s material aspirations; it stands for their right to equality, respect, and the right to build a future without limitations based on caste. The story ends with the sons continuing the work their father started, ensuring that the family’s dream will persist despite the tragic events.