Chapter 6
My Childhood
Question 1. Where was Abdul Kalam’s house?
Answer: Abdul Kalam lived in a modest house situated on Mosque Street in the town of Rameswaram.
Question 2.
What do you think Dinamani is the name of? Give a reason for your answer.
Answer: ‘Dinamani’ appears to be the name of a newspaper. This is clear from the fact that Abdul Kalam used it to follow news about the Second World War, which is something typically done with a newspaper.
Question 3.
Who were Abdul Kalam’s school friends? What did they later become?
Answer: Abdul Kalam’s close school friends included Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan. As they grew up, Ramanadha Sastry took over as the temple priest, Aravindan started a business arranging transportation for pilgrims, and Sivaprakasan became a catering contractor for the Southern Railway.
Question 4.
How did Abdul Kalam earn his first wages?
Answer:He received his first earnings by helping to distribute newspapers during the Second World War when train services were suspended and the bundles of newspapers had to be handed over directly to the distributors.
Question 5.
Had he earned any money before that? In what way?
Answer: Yes, before earning wages through newspaper distribution, he used to collect and sell tamarind seeds to a shop located on Mosque Street. This small effort would earn him one anna a day.
Question 1.
How does the author describe:
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his father
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his mother
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himself?
Answer: The author describes his father as a simple and wise man who had deep faith in goodness and humanity. Though he lacked wealth and formal education, he was respected for his honesty and clear thinking. He believed in living a life free from unnecessary comforts.
His mother is portrayed as a kind and caring woman. She had great compassion for others and often served food to many people beyond her own family. She had all the values that are seen in a loving and traditional Indian mother.
The author describes himself as an ordinary-looking boy born in a modest Tamil family. He had average appearance and was not very noticeable in his early years. However, he was full of curiosity and had a strong desire to learn. Later, he studied physics and aerospace engineering and became a scientist.
Question 2.
What characteristics does he say he inherited from his parents?
Answer: He mentions that he got qualities like kindness and generosity from his parents. From their way of living, he learned to be honest, disciplined, and sincere. Their actions taught him to lead a life with strong moral values and to always help others.
Question 1.
“On the whole, the small society of Rameswaram was very rigid in terms of the segregation of different social groups,” says the author.
*Which social groups does he mention? Were these groups easily identifiable (for example, by the way they dressed)?
Were they aware only of their differences or did they also naturally share friendships and experiences? (Think of the bedtime stories in Kalam’s house; of who his friends were; and of what used to take place in the pond near his house.)
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?
Narrate two incidents that show how differences can be created, and also how they can be resolved. How can people change their attitudes?
Answer: In the chapter, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam describes how Rameswaram, though a small town, had a deeply rooted system of social divisions, mainly based on religion and caste. He refers to groups like Hindus and Muslims, and also mentions distinctions within Hindu society based on caste. These groups were indeed easily identifiable—people wore different clothes, followed different customs, and performed different rituals.
Despite these differences, the people of Rameswaram often shared bonds of friendship and mutual respect. Kalam’s own life reflected this: he had close friends like Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, and Sivaprakasan who belonged to different castes. In Kalam’s house, his mother would tell bedtime stories from both the Ramayana and the life of the Prophet, showing a blend of cultural traditions. Additionally, children from different communities played together near the pond close to his house.
The text presents both kinds of individuals—those who emphasized divisions and those who overcame them. For instance, a new teacher once separated Kalam from his Hindu friend Ramanadha Sastry in the classroom, purely on the basis of religion. However, Ramanadha Sastry’s father, Lakshmana Sastry, sternly rebuked the teacher for his discriminatory behavior and defended equality and friendship.
Another person who helped bridge social differences was Sivasubramania Iyer, Kalam’s science teacher. Though a high-caste Brahmin, he invited Kalam, a Muslim boy, to his house for a meal. When his wife initially refused to serve food to Kalam, Iyer patiently explained to her the importance of breaking such barriers. Over time, even she changed her mindset.
These incidents reveal that while prejudice can divide, empathy and education can unite. People's attitudes can change when they are exposed to compassion, reasoning, and real human connection. Leaders like Lakshmana Sastry and Sivasubramania Iyer demonstrate that standing up against narrow-mindedness can inspire others and help create a more inclusive society.
Question 2.
Why did Abdul Kalam want to leave Rameswaram?
What did his father say to this?
What do you think his words mean? Why do you think he spoke those words?
Answer: Abdul Kalam decided to leave Rameswaram in order to pursue higher studies in the town of Ramanathapuram, which had better educational facilities than his hometown.
When Kalam expressed his desire, his father did not resist. Instead, he supported the decision and offered him wise advice. He said, “A seagull needs to fly across the sun, alone and without a nest.” This metaphor highlighted the importance of independence and growth. He understood that just like a bird must leave its nest to learn to fly, his son had to leave home to achieve his full potential.
His father’s words reflected both wisdom and emotional strength. Rather than being possessive or fearful, he recognized the value of learning and personal development. He wanted Kalam to explore the world, gain knowledge, and make a future for himself—even if it meant being away from the family. His calm acceptance and encouragement played a major role in shaping Kalam’s confidence and ambition.
Question 1:
Find the sentences in the text where these words occur: erupt, surge, trace, undistinguished, casualty
Answer: Here are the sentences from the text where the words are used:
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Erupt: “A sudden demand for tamarind seeds erupted in the market.”
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Surge: “I can still feel the surge of pride in earning my own money for the first time.”
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Trace: “I would later attempt to trace in the deadlines in Dinamani.”
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Undistinguished: “A short boy with rather undistinguished looks, born to tall and handsome parents.”
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Casualty: “The first casualty came in the form of the suspension of the train halt at Rameswaram Station.”
Now, check these words in a dictionary to understand how they are used in different contexts.
Question 2:
Now answer the following questions:
1. What are the things that can erupt? Use examples to explain the various meanings of erupt. Now do the same for the word surge. What things can surge?
Answer: Erupt means to break out suddenly. It is used for:
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Volcanoes: The volcano erupted and lava flowed out.
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Emotions: Anger erupted in the classroom when the test was cancelled.
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Fights or protests: Violence erupted after the news spread.
Surge means a sudden rise or powerful movement. It is used for:
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Water/Waves: The sea surged during the storm.
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Emotions: A surge of excitement ran through the crowd.
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Electricity: There was a power surge in the circuit.
2. What are the meanings of the word trace and which of the meanings is closest to the word in the text?
Answer: The word trace has many meanings:
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To follow the path or steps of something: He traced the route on the map.
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To find something out: The police traced the call to a nearby location.
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To copy by drawing over: She traced the design onto the paper.
In the text, trace means to find or search for information, which is the closest meaning.
3. Can you find the word undistinguished in your dictionary? (If not, look up the word distinguished and say what undistinguished must mean.)
Answer: The word undistinguished is the opposite of distinguished.
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Distinguished means someone who stands out or is respected.
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Therefore, undistinguished means not special, not easily noticed, or ordinary.
In the text, it refers to the boy's physical appearance—not outstanding or notable.
Question 1:
Match the phrases in Column A with their meanings in Column B:
| A | B |
|---|---|
| (i) broke out | (a) an attitude of kindness, a readiness to give freely |
| (ii) in accordance with | (b) was not able to tolerate |
| (iii) a helping hand | (c) began suddenly in a violent way |
| (iv) could not stomach | (d) assistance |
| (v) generosity of spirit | (e) persons with power to make decisions |
| (vi) figures of authority | (f) according to a particular rule, principle, or system |
✅ Answers (Matched Differently for Better Clarity):
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(i) broke out — (c): suddenly started in a violent manner (e.g., a war broke out)
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(ii) in accordance with — (f): as per rules or instructions
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(iii) a helping hand — (d): support or assistance
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(iv) could not stomach — (b): could not bear or tolerate
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(v) generosity of spirit — (a): a kind and giving attitude
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(vi) figures of authority — (e): people who have official power to make decisions
Question 2:
Now form the opposite words by adding suitable prefixes like un-, in-, il-, im-, or ir-.
🔄 Opposite Words with Explanation:
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adequate → inadequate (not enough)
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regular → irregular (not following a pattern or routine)
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demanding → undemanding (not requiring much effort)
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true → untrue (false)
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patriotic → unpatriotic (not showing love for one’s country)
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accessible → inaccessible (not reachable)
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logical → illogical (not reasonable or clear)
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responsible → irresponsible (not accountable or dependable)
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acceptable → unacceptable (not allowed or suitable)
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tolerant → intolerant (not accepting others’ views or actions)
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active → inactive (not involved in action)
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permanent → impermanent (not lasting forever)
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disputed → undisputed (not questioned or doubted)
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coherent → incoherent (not clear or logical)
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legal → illegal (against the law)
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possible → impossible (not achievable)
Question 1. In yesterday’s competition the prizes (give away) by the Principal.
Answer: The prizes were distributed by the Principal in yesterday’s competition.
Question 2. In spite of financial difficulties, the labourers (pay) on time.
Answer: The labourers were still paid on time despite the financial difficulties.
Question 3. On Republic Day, vehicles (not allow) beyond this point.
Answer: Vehicles were prohibited beyond this point on Republic Day.
Question 4. Second-hand books (buy and sell) on the pavement every Saturday.
Answer: Second-hand books are traded on the pavement every Saturday.
Question 5. Elections to the Lok Sabha (hold) every five years.
Answer: Lok Sabha elections are conducted every five years.
Question 6. Our National Anthem (compose) Rabindranath Tagore.
Answer: Rabindranath Tagore is the composer of our National Anthem.
Question 1: How Helmets Came To Be Used in Cricket
Answer: Nari Contractor was the Captain and an opening batsman for India in the 1960s. The Indian cricket team went on a tour to the West Indies in 1962. In a match against Barbados in Bridgetown, Nari Contractor was seriously injured and collapsed. In those days, helmets were not worn. Contractor was hit on the head by a bouncer from Charlie Griffith. Contractor’s skull was fractured. The entire team was deeply concerned. The West Indies players were worried. Contractor was rushed to the hospital. He was accompanied by Frank Worrell, the Captain of the West Indies team. Blood was donated by the West Indies players. Thanks to the timely help, Contractor was saved. Nowadays, helmets are routinely used against fast bowlers.
Question 2: Oil From Seeds
Answer: Vegetable oils are made from seeds and fruits of many plants growing all over the world, from tiny sesame seeds to big, juicy coconuts. Oil is produced from cotton seeds, groundnuts, soya beans, and sunflower seeds. Olive oil is used for cooking, salad dressing, etc. Olives are shaken from the trees and gathered up, usually by hand. The olives are ground to a thick paste which is spread onto special mats. Then the mats are layered up on the pressing machine which gently squeezes them to produce olive oil.
Question 1:
During the annual Shri Sita Rama Kalyanam Ceremony...
(i) What was the annual event held in Rameswaram?
(ii) Where did the boats carry the idols of the Lord?
(iii) Find a word from the passage that means “images of God”.
Answer: (i) The annual event was the Shri Sita Rama Kalyanam Ceremony.
(ii) The boats carried the idols to the marriage site in the middle of the Rama Tirtha pond.
(iii) Idols.
Question 2:
Events from the Ramayana and from the life of the Prophet were the bedtime stories...
(i) How did the speaker’s family help in the ceremony?
(ii) What does this show about the speaker’s family?
(iii) Find the word that means “the place where an event takes place”.
Answer: (i) The speaker’s family arranged boats with special platforms to carry the idols.
(ii) It shows that the speaker’s family respected all religions and believed in unity.
(iii) Site.
Question 3:
After school, we went home and told our respective parents...
(i) What brought about a change in the teacher?
(ii) What kind of society did the speaker live in?
(iii) Find the word that means “strong belief or opinion”.
Answer:(i) The bold and honest advice from Lakshmana Sastry changed the teacher’s mindset.
(ii) The speaker lived in a society that believed in respect and fairness across communities.
(iii) Conviction.
Question 4:
His wife watched us from behind the kitchen door...
(i) Why did the teacher’s wife watch them from behind the kitchen door?
(ii) Why was the narrator hesitant to eat with the Hindu family?
(iii) Find the word that means “to deal with”.
Answer: (i) She was uncomfortable with the idea of a Muslim boy in her kitchen, so she watched from a distance.
(ii) The narrator felt he wasn’t accepted and feared being disrespected.
(iii) Confronted.
Question 5:
Sivasubramaniam Iyer was not perturbed...
(i) Who are “he” and “me” in the sentence?
(ii) Why was his wife horrified?
(iii) Find the word that means “agitated or upset”.
Answer: (i) “He” is Sivasubramania Iyer, and “me” is A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
(ii) She was horrified because she believed a Muslim should not enter her kitchen due to religious rules.
(iii) Perturbed.
Question 1: Why did A.P.J. Abdul Kalam call his childhood a secure childhood?
Or
“Kalam’s childhood was a secure one, both materially and emotionally”. Illustrate the fact.
Answer: Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam considered his childhood secure because he was nurtured in a loving and peaceful environment. His parents fulfilled all his basic needs like food, clothing, and medicine, and also provided emotional warmth and moral support. The values of honesty, discipline, and harmony he grew up with made his early life both emotionally and materially stable.
Question 2: Do you think the new teacher deserved the treatment meted out to him? Why/why not?
Answer: Yes, the new teacher deserved the punishment he received because he tried to instil communal hatred in the minds of innocent students. Such behavior is completely unacceptable, especially from an educator. A teacher should promote unity and respect among students of all backgrounds, not divide them based on religion or caste.
Question 3: What was the difference in the attitudes of the science teacher and his wife towards A.P.J. Abdul Kalam?
Answer: Kalam’s science teacher, though belonging to an orthodox Hindu family, was open-minded and inclusive. He welcomed Kalam to his home and treated him equally by sitting and dining with him. On the other hand, his wife was traditional and refused to serve a Muslim boy in her kitchen, revealing her conservative mindset.
Question 4: How did Second World War give opportunity to Kalam to earn his first wages?
Answer: During World War II, train services at Rameswaram station were disrupted. Kalam’s cousin, who ran a newspaper business, needed help to collect newspaper bundles thrown from moving trains. Kalam offered assistance and was paid for his work, marking his first earning and a sense of self-reliance.
Question 5: How does Abdul Kalam describe his mother?
Answer: Abdul Kalam portrayed his mother as a gracious, caring, and spiritually inclined woman. She was deeply compassionate, often feeding many guests daily, regardless of their social background. Her generosity and kindness left a lasting impact on Kalam’s character.
Question 6: What did Abdul Kalam’s family do during the annual Shri Sita Ram Kalayanam Ceremony?
Answer: During the Shri Sita Ram Kalyanam ceremony, Kalam’s family actively participated in the religious procession. They arranged a boat with a decorated platform to carry the idols across the pond to the ceremonial site. The family’s involvement highlighted their respect for all religious practices.
Question 7: What characteristics did Abdul Kalam inherit from his parents?
Answer: From his father, Kalam inherited values like honesty, simplicity, and strong self-discipline. His mother instilled in him compassion, faith in humanity, and respect for others. These qualities shaped him into a noble and tolerant individual.
Question 1: What do you know about A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s family after reading the lesson “My Childhood”?
Answer: A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s family belonged to a humble, middle-class Tamil Muslim household in Rameswaram. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a man of integrity and deep wisdom, though not formally educated or wealthy. He lived a simple yet principled life. Kalam’s mother, Ashiamma, was a compassionate and kind-hearted woman who regularly fed many outsiders. The family upheld secular values—they respected all religions and actively participated in Hindu rituals. His mother and grandmother told him stories from Hindu epics like the Ramayana, which reflects their open-mindedness and cultural harmony at home.
Question 2: What incident took place at the Rameswaram Elementary School when a new teacher came to the class?
Answer: At Rameswaram Elementary School, when a new teacher joined, he was disturbed to see Kalam, a Muslim boy, sitting beside his Brahmin friend Ramanadha Sastry. He asked Kalam to sit at the back, citing religious differences. This unexpected discrimination saddened both children deeply. When they informed their parents, Ramanadha’s father, a respected temple priest, strongly condemned the teacher’s actions. He insisted the teacher either apologise or leave the school. This bold stand against religious discrimination showed the society’s commitment to communal harmony.
Question 3: How did Abdul Kalam earn his “first wages”? How did he feel at that time?
Answer: During the Second World War, train services at Rameswaram were altered, and newspapers were thrown from moving trains instead of being handed over at the station. Kalam’s cousin Shamsuddin was a newspaper distributor and asked young Kalam to help retrieve the newspaper bundles. Kalam gladly accepted and was paid for his help. Earning his first wages gave him a deep sense of pride and self-worth—it was his first step toward financial independence and responsibility.
Question 4: “Once you decide to change the system, such problems have to be confronted.” What system is being referred to? What are such problems?
Answer: The "system" refers to the rigid social norms based on caste and religion that encouraged discrimination and segregation. One such problem was that conservative Brahmins, like the wife of Kalam’s teacher, refused to allow a Muslim boy into their kitchen. The "problems" were the social resistance and prejudices faced by those who tried to bridge communal gaps. Kalam’s science teacher, despite being an orthodox Hindu, challenged this mindset by serving food to Kalam himself and encouraging inclusiveness. It shows that standing against injustice often invites resistance, but it’s essential for meaningful change.
Question 5: How was the science teacher, Sivasubramania Iyer, a friend of Abdul Kalam despite being an orthodox Brahmin with a conservative wife?
Answer: Sivasubramania Iyer saw beyond religious and caste boundaries. Although he belonged to a conservative Hindu family, he believed in equality and education for all. He recognized Kalam’s potential and invited him home for a meal, a bold move at the time. When his wife refused to serve a Muslim boy in her kitchen, Iyer calmly served Kalam himself and ate alongside him, showing true friendship and conviction. He later encouraged his wife to overcome her prejudices. His actions highlighted that true friendship goes beyond social conventions.
Question 1: ‘Childhood’ is the formative period of a child’s life. The lessons learnt here always stays with a person. Comment on it in the light of the lesson A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
Answer: Yes, childhood plays a crucial role in shaping a person’s character and future. In the lesson My Childhood, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam shares several incidents from his early life that had a deep impact on him. Growing up in a small town, he learned values such as respect for all religions, simplicity, hard work, and tolerance from his family and teachers. His father’s spiritual strength, his mother’s kindness, and the inclusive environment of Rameswaram helped nurture these qualities. These early lessons became the foundation of his personality, guiding him to become a visionary scientist and one of India’s most respected Presidents. Thus, it proves that the moral and social lessons we learn in childhood stay with us forever and influence our entire life journey.
