1.1 LEARNING TOGETHER- The Day The River Spoke - Class 7 - Poorvi

📘 Chapter Title :The Day the River Spoke 

Author: Kamala Nair

Textbook: Honeydew (Class 8 English, CBSE)

Genre: Fiction

📝 Summary :

“The Day the River Spoke” is a heartwarming story about Jahnavi, a curious and determined young girl living in a coastal village in India. Though her brothers attend school, Jahnavi is repeatedly denied this opportunity by her parents who consider her too small or need her help at home. Saddened and frustrated, Jahnavi often sits by the river, her only companion. One day, the river speaks to her in a sleepy, murmuring voice and encourages her to pursue her dream. The river motivates her to overcome her fears and try attending school despite her hesitation. With renewed courage, Jahnavi visits the school, listens to a lesson, and is warmly welcomed by the teacher. He later speaks to her parents, convincing them to let her attend. Her mother, who had once been denied schooling herself, supports the decision. Jahnavi's journey reflects resilience, courage, and the deep desire to learn. She dreams not only of learning but of becoming a teacher and helping other girls in her village receive an education too.

👤 Character Sketch

Jahnavi

Jahnavi is a bright, inquisitive, and determined girl with a deep desire to learn. Despite being told repeatedly that school is not for her, she remains curious about the world. Her questions reflect a keen scientific mind. Though hesitant at first, she shows remarkable courage and takes initiative to fulfil her dream. She is also empathetic and aspires to uplift other girls in her community.

📚 Themes

✨ Literary Devices

📖 Title Justification

The title “The Day the River Spoke” is symbolic of a turning point in Jahnavi’s life. The river, personified in the story, acts as a catalyst for her transformation. It is the day when she receives the courage and encouragement she needed to pursue her dream. The river’s conversation inspires her to step out of her fear and take the first step towards education. Thus, the title aptly captures the essence of Jahnavi’s awakening and the significant role the river plays in it.

✅ One-Mark Questions (Answer in one sentence)

1. Who is Jahnavi’s elder brother?

   → Gopi, whom she calls Ettan.

   
   

2. What is Jahnavi’s dream?

   → To go to school and learn to read and write.

   
   

3. What advice does the River give to Jahnavi?

   → To slip into school one day and listen quietly to the lesson.

   
   

4. How does the teacher react to Jahnavi’s presence?

   → The teacher warmly welcomes her and speaks to her father about admission.

   
   

5. What did Jahnavi promise to do when she grows up?

   → To become a teacher and educate all the girls in her village.

   
   

✅ Three-Mark Questions:

1. Why does Jahnavi feel she will never be allowed to go to school?

   → Jahnavi believes she is too old and that her parents won’t allow her, as they keep asking her to take care of her younger siblings instead. Her repeated denial has made her lose hope.

   
   

2. How does nature play a role in the story?

   → The natural surroundings, especially the river, act as a confidante and guide for Jahnavi. The river’s calming and encouraging presence helps her find strength and direction.

   
   

3. How did Jahnavi’s mother’s attitude change towards her education?

   → Initially, her mother denied her education, but after speaking to the teacher, she encouraged Jahnavi, expressing pride and support. She even shared her own regret of not going to school.

   
   

🧠 Value-Based Question:

What does Jahnavi’s journey teach us about the importance of courage and self-belief in achieving our dreams?

Jahnavi’s story teaches us that dreams can be achieved through courage and determination. Despite being told “no” several times, she doesn't give up. Her faith in herself, encouraged by the river, helps her take a bold step. It reminds us that even when society limits us, our inner strength and desire can bring about change—not just for ourselves, but for others too.

End

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